Add Some Jazz to Your Night Out

Is it time once again for a special date night or to meet up with friends for an evening out? Escape the same old routine of dinner, movies, bowling, etc.! Take it to the next level and try something new with Armstrong Jazz House, located on Coral Gables’ Miracle Mile, across from Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre.

As the name suggests, this is a jazz club and from the moment you are greeted outside, you start to feel the sophistication and unique vibe. The décor is amazing. Two stories high and filled with the cool sophistication you’d expect from a cozy jazz club, this is a happening place. Naturally, the chandeliers were imported from France and every item hung on the walls or in the impressive cases evoke a feeling of musical joy and passion.

One could say that Armstrong Jazz House has been in the making since CEO/Owner Alfred Santamaria was just 8 years old. He played drums in youth programs until he was 18 and his favorite genre of music was jazz. Although he never went professional, his love for jazz became a passion and he dreamt of owning a jazz venue.

“I've been to all the world-class jazz houses, not only in America, but Europe as well,” explains Alfred. “When we were in the planning stages, I knew exactly how I wanted this dream idea to become reality. I said if we're gonna do it, we're gonna do it big! We're gonna do it seven nights a week, just like the big boys do it in the jazz cities of New York, New Orleans, Boston and Chicago.”

Alfred’s dream became reality in February of 2024. “We brought in one of the best sound engineers in the nation to make sure that the acoustics were perfectly on-point and purchased world-class jazz-tuned audio equipment so it sounds amazing.”  said Alfred. “We also established some very intentional house rules so the bands know this is not a concert hall. This is a place where they play and create a beautiful classic jazz ambience, so the people can love and enjoy wonderful music while still able to have meaningful and profound conversations.”

There is a certain buzz of energy in the staff at Armstrong Jazz House as well. From the moment you see them awaiting you at the sidewalk until you finish your last sip and bite, you’ll see the eager-to-please staff working to make your experience unforgettable. Manager Andres Castro explains, “We are very passionate about what we do here. This is our contribution to the cultural landscape of Coral Gables, which needed some jazz and music. And we do a good deal of work with non-profit organizations, like Habitat for Humanity. One of Alfred’s continuing passions is to give jazz lessons as the main instructor to youths age 8-14 on weekends here at Armstrong.”

The restaurant and bar compliment the jazz perfectly. In a very conscious effort, Armstrong Jazz House’s menu is somewhat limited in choice, but expertly paired and tailored to the overall experience. “We wanted to create a menu that definitely had a New Orleans flavor, as we know New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, but the menu is predominantly French. Everything has a French influence, and then we have some African-American influence as well,” Alfred explains. “We take a lot of pride in using the highest quality products, and all sauces are made at home. Our kitchen is 100% organic.”

As for drinks, Armstrong Jazz House is working on a full liquor license in the coming few months. For now, they have an excellent wine list and can make fermented cocktails. The choices are plentiful and quite tasty.

Each night of the week, there is a different live band. Starting at 6pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and 7pm Monday through Thursday, you’ll hear the classical jazz play live until 11pm. Again, Alfred has outdone himself with three of the nights boasting Grammy-winning jazz artists like Paul Hall, Richard Bravo and Rafael Valencia.

As the reputation grows, so do the opportunities. Armstrong Jazz House is in talks to expand to the space next door and eventually hold about 120 seats. Additional world-class musicians are already on the slate, as Armstrong Jazz House hires its bands for residencies of about 6 months, there is always something new in store.

The venue has your typical jazz lovers from age 50 and up, but surprisingly Alfred says nearly half of the patrons are 18–45-year-olds. He is pleased to see so many people enjoying their first ever jazz club experience and many have become recurring customers.

Armstrong Jazz House is located at 271 Miracle Mile. They do take walk-ins, but it is far better to call for a reservation and avoid any wait. You can call them at 305-488-9955 or check out their website at armstrongjazzhouse.com