Blues Alley, Washington D.C.

Blues Alley, established in 1965, stands as a renowned jazz venue that combines dining and nighttime entertainment. Almost 360 nights of the year are dedicated exclusively to hosting jazz musicians. Over the years, Blues Alley has welcomed some of the most celebrated figures in the world of jazz and blues, including luminaries like Nancy Wilson, Sarah Vaughan, Charlie Byrd, Maynard Ferguson, and Eva Cassidy. Notably, in 1975, Earl Fatha Hines spent a week at Blues Alley, creating an hour-long solo film for British TV during the club's afternoon downtime. This film prominently featured Frank Hart, the famous "clean-up man" of Blues Alley.

Moreover, Blues Alley is more than just a jazz venue; it also operates a non-profit jazz division known as the Blues Alley Jazz Society. This organization is committed to jazz education and community outreach, particularly for young performers in the local area. Their initiatives encompass programs like the Blues Alley Youth Orchestra and the Blues Alley Jazz Summer Camp.

Blues Alley pays tribute to its most beloved performers by allowing them to create signature dishes featured on the restaurant's regular menu. A prime example is Phyllis Hyman's jumbo shrimp dish, which has become one of the menu's most cherished items. This privilege of culinary recognition is not extended to all performers and is reserved for those who have achieved greatness in the realm of jazz, including luminaries such as Nancy Wilson and John Williams.