Ain't Nothin' But... The Blues Bar

Arrive before 7.30pm, or be prepared to queue outside. This pecan-toned juke joint – a reasonably authentic tribute to Basin Street – has built up a devoted fan base since opening, & comes flanked by a hickory-smoked hotchpotch of Americana. You might find the next Big Mama Thornton or Screamin’ Jay Hawkins letting rip with deep, gritty, got-it-bad blues during the open mic sessions; otherwise hot jams, harmonicas & boot-scootin’ boogie are provided by house heroes Rollo Markee & the Tail Shakers or Gentleman Tim & the Contenders, seven days a week. To drink, stick with Marlboro Man hooch: Jack Daniel’s, Jim Beam or Johnnie Walker with a Bitburger or beer on the side. Wines for your belle are served by staff whose Southern charm can occasionally go west.