We had our first visit to this new Portsmouth venue last week and had a fabulous time. Everything about it is top drawer: the choice of musicians, many of whom are internationally prominent, the elegant and intimate decor, the funky New Orleans cuisine and eclectic wine list, and the friendly and competent staff. This was the perfect time and place to venture out of the cave that has been our pandemic plight. You can't attend without proof of vaccination, and the tables are discretely spaced so that there is social distancing. We by chance had the very best table, front row center! I have been a fan of John Pizzarelli for decades and am listening to him singing "Snowfall" now, as I write this, on TSF Jazz live from Paris. John's pianist, Isaiah J. Thompson made the performant even richer, as he made the keys of the shiny new Steinway glisten with joy and rapture. It sounds "grand!" At the end of the concert, the trio got a much deserved standing ovation and I handed John a box of Van Otis fudge for their long drive back to NYC. We will no longer need to drive to Cambridge, Boston, or the Island of Manhattan to enjoy world class jazz. This spot is the equal of Scullers, the Regatta Bar, Birdland, you name it. The sound of John's voice was a bit tinny at first, but the sound guy James fixed it. Oh did I mention that although the New Orleans cuisine was not really to our liking (I suspect they will modify this soon), I enjoyed the best cut of steak I have had in many many years, and a glass of tasty red wine. (though the pour was on the stingy side) The staff was professional and super friendly. Sitting in this space and looking around one enjoys a visual treat as though the room is large (there is a balcony with tables upstairs), one never feels dwarfed by the architecture. It is an acoustic marvelous. A world class venue...Thanks. :Portsmouth, for putting the Granite State on the map Jazz wise. We will be back soon for more jazz greats. And of course there are many other categories of performers coming to town and gracing us with their talents. Enjoy!