Best Piano Bars In Cleveland

The Daily Meal Staff|Oct. 23, 2014 7:00 am EST

Sometimes the beats of top 40s tracks just aren't what you want when you're out for the night. Similarly, dinner music can be quite an annoyance when it's pre-recorded and part of a pre-determined playlist. Why not head out for a drink or dinner and enjoy some live music that won't rattle your bones, but will soothe your mind and relax your emotions after a long day? But where to go for such an experience? The answer is a piano bar! While Cleveland may not be known for its plethora of piano bars, there are plenty of quality options for whatever you may need, from an authentic speakeasy cocktail to an artfully created dinner.

The Velvet Tango Room
2095 Columbus Road
Cleveland, OH 44113
(216) 241-8869
www.velvettangoroom.com

Hidden on Columbus Road, The Velvet Tango Room plays up its status as Cleveland's speakeasy. With authentic cocktails from the days of prohibition and a secret room that requires a password (acquired with reservations), you can't help but feel transported in time here. Every weeknight at 5:30 p.m., the Jazz Trio plays for patrons and entertains in a much appreciated setting. Additionally, various pianists are featured Monday through Thursday beginning at 9 p.m., making for a full night of jazz, pianists and delicious cocktails.

Society Lounge
2063 E. 4th St., Lower Level
Cleveland, OH 44115
(216) 781-9050
www.societycleveland.com

Priding itself on its homage to an era gone by, Society Lounge is a unique cocktail lounge located on the bustling East 4th Street downtown. The cocktail juices and syrups are all made from scratch and the interior is just as dim and intimate as you would expect an old speakeasy to be. Society also has a dress code in order to keep up with the attention to detail that is provided in the products and services. Frequently, the lounge hosts live entertainment varying between vocalists and saxophonists or pianists. Having a piano in the bar at all times adds to the authenticity and the promise of a relaxing night full of jazz and inspired cocktails.

Johnny's Downtown
1406 W. 6th St.
Cleveland, OH 44113
(216) 623-0055
www.johnnyscleveland.com

Johnny's Downtown is located in a refurbished 1860s Warehouse District building and is well loved by locals and people who work in the area. Wine, pasta, veal and fish are what the restaurant is best known for, in addition to the nightly piano music in the bar. The interior is cozy and intimate, especially with the addition of the live music, while the patio is a little more upbeat with the action of the street and sidewalks whirling by.

Nighttown
12387 Cedar Road
Cleveland, OH 44106
(216) 795-0550
www.nighttowncleveland.com

Nighttown is Cleveland Heights' jazz bar and restaurant, known for its vintage appearance and dedication to authentic jazz and unique acts. Stop here for some great food and cocktails and stay for the music and entertainment. Every Friday and Saturday, "Late Night at Nighttown" runs from 10:30 p.m. until 1 a.m. and features George Foley and Jackie Warren on piano. Additionally, the restaurant and bar hosts a variety of musical acts throughout the week, from solo artists to jazz groups.

Kaitlin Dershaw is an Ohio native with a distinct love for Cleveland. She enjoys making new discoveries from tasty places to eat and drink, to perfectly unique live music venues. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.