Last weekend I took the train to NYC to meet Yolanda, who was already up there for business. By happenstance, an architect friend of hers and his arty wife had contacted us a few days earlier to see if we knew about this new club in The Village, called Mezzrow. So after a dinner at one of our favorite spots, off we went!

But before we go there, let me say a few words about Yerba Buena Perry. It’s a compact, Cuban-Asian joint that serves dynamite food to the sounds of jazzy classics. We now go there every time we are in New York. AND…we have a favorite cocktail to share with you.

Yerba Buena Perry in the Village

Poquito Picante:

Muddle 2 slices of cucumber and sprigs of cilantro in a cocktail shaker. Add 2 oz of gin, 1/2 oz simple syrup, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1 oz of jalapeño infused Cointreau (infuse for 1 day). Shake with ice, strain, and serve up in a martini glass. Garnish with 1 dried Thai chili.

Poquito Picante

Back to Mezzrow:

Named after Mezz Mezzrow, the infamous jazz clarinet (and oboe!) player, this little club is snuggled into the basement of an historic townhouse not far from The Village Vanguard.  The proprietor is an accomplished pianist and hosts a variety of duos, which is about all that will fit next to his grand piano. That night we heard Luis Perdomo (piano) and Ben Wolfe (bass). I felt bad for Ben because his head was getting baked in the lights!

Mezzrow Duo Luis Perdomo and Ben Wolfe

The music was a mix of classics and original arrangements. It’s always amazing to hear great musicians play really good music in such an intimate place. After a set we ventured out into the big city night. Thanks to Bob and Carol For turning us on to a new place to hear jazz!

Bob and Carol Evans, Randy and Yo