Nestled in southeast Calgary, Mahogany is a growing neighbourhood boasting scenic trails, a private lake, and several notable businesses. Just behind the roundabout that marks the end of Mahogany Centre sits Alvin’s Jazz Club – a fine dining restaurant which brings the vigorous nightlife of 1930s New York right into the heart of Calgary.
Staying on theme of a prohibition-era speakeasy, Alvin’s does not have an obvious storefront. But you’ll know that you’ve arrived by the statue of a gigantic, gilded trombone sitting just adjacent to the front doors with Alvin’s name beside it.
The awning, which juts out above the front doors, evokes the thought of an old-fashioned marquee during the early ages of theatre. This may be to allow guests to feel like a celebrity taking a stroll down the red carpet as they enter through the lobby and walk up to the hostess stand, where they are warmly greeted and led to a table in the appropriately jazz-themed dining room.
The interior is completely closed off from daylight, creating an intimate and romantic setting which is softly lit by small lamps placed on each table. Meanwhile, a couple of spotlights fixed onto the ceiling pour streams purple and blue-hued lights onto a small stage. It is truly the centrepiece of the dining room where live Jazz music, played by some of Calgary’s top musicians, commences almost every evening for lucky diners.
The live performances typically begin around 6:30 pm on most nights, but before then diners can still admire jazz music played overhead while they are immersed in the late-night culture of the 1930’s and 40’s. With Art Deco motifs and a moody ambience, the dining room evokes the concept of an early speakeasy off the streets of New York.
It’s the perfect setting in which to enjoy the menu at Alvin’s Jazz Club, which offers some tried and true classics of American cuisine elevated by a contemporary twist.
The appetizer menu, for example, offers up some crowd favourites like Beef & Bone Marrow Tartar, Seared Scallops, and crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon. One major highlight from the appetizer list is the Seafood Platter for two, with a description that pales in comparison to the dish’s presentation – which is sure to turn heads when it arrives at your table.
The Seafood Platter contains one hearty portion each of Salmon Tartar and Crudo, with oysters and muscles placed elegantly on the plate. Every component of the dish is just as fresh as it is delicious, and the ingredients are more than capable of standing on their own. However, Alvin’s clearly strives to create an experience, so they place a jar of dry ice between the salmon and crudo; from it, thick clouds of “smoke” pour outwards and over the entire dish in an enchanting effect.
For the main courses, Alvin’s Jazz Club continues paying homage to the classics of American cuisine while also supporting local producers and farmers. One option includes an Alberta “Reserve” Beef Tenderloin supplied by Chairman’s Steakhouse – another top contender in Calgary’s dining scene.
The menu also includes a Seven Hour Braised Short Rib, a flaky Miso Marinated Salmon, and – for vegetarians – Butternut Squash Agnolotti with Feta and Tomato Butter. Regardless of whether you’re joining Alvin’s for a date night or an evening out with friends, every person in your group will find something to enjoy.
While Alvin’s Jazz Club is open throughout the day, it’s strongly recommended that you stop by for the live Jazz music played by local musicians in Calgary. It’s through these performances, the nostalgic ambience, and the delicious selection of high-end dishes that Alvin’s seeks to bring together Calgarians for a one-of-a-kind night out in the city.
