Smokin’ Jazz 7/10/23 (Our first blog done somewhat together, for better or worse)

Talk about smokin’ jazz. . . or smoking and jazz! Cutest and I embarked on an adventure this past Thursday evening. Usually Thursdays are not the hippest night to go out and mingle with the in crowds. However, it is a good time to check out venues without hordes of people in our way. It also affords us a better opportunity to sit and chat with the patrons and staff. Doing online research for hidden or seldom discussed K.C. jazz sites, I unearthed Classic Blends Cigar Lounge at 2425 Burlington. CBC, only a year on the scene, has no cover charge and asks that you only purchase a drink. With that information filed, Cutest and I zipped over the Missouri River bridge into North K.C. where we landed in front of a strip row – hair salon, pizza, tattoo parlor, you know. Nestled between the retailers sat CBC, its entrance below an unassuming sign bearing their name. We strolled in.

Wow! Face slap to the sense of smell. This is an outpost for cigar aficionados! Cutest began to back-track to the parking lot, but I grabbed her hand and we ventured forth. After all, that’s why they pay us the big bucks. Cutest’s eyes danced around, locking on what appeared to her to be dark and dusty flower pots, sitting on each and every table. “Cigar ash trays,” I informed her. Her desire to continue on was not overpowering. Then there was the lingering odor of burning tobacco leaves. Adding up the ash trays, humidor room, smoky haze, and the cigar that each patron was waving about, Cutest figured it out. . . smiled and ventured onward.

We ordered a couple of ordinary cocktails from the bar, and with those in hand, nestled into two of the big chairs, benefiting from the nearby AC units’ fans. We turned our attention to the very musically talented Jim Lower Trio, usually there on Thursday evenings. Since most of the other patrons had a cigar in one hand and beverage in the other, we were the only applauders in the room. We tried to compensate. And if you’d like to hear his trio, go to https://www.jimlowerjazz.com/listen-1.

Chatting with a friendly regular, we were told that on Fridays, the space is filled with boisterous crowds. Saturdays see a more restrained atmosphere. So don’t come here expecting a 21st century decorated bar. It’s somewhat plain and simple but still comfy and interesting. Wood and faux leather and some light painted walls with some fun pictures and tvs. Enjoy the jazz, beverages, your friends, and if you must, a good cigar. You get used to the smoke. But Cutest did hang her clothes outside all night.

Be sure to review our new rating system below. We’ll see (you’ll see) if we continue it.

	1 = Poor 5 = Great	N/A = Didn't sample or see
	Cute (But Very Critical)	Cutest
Food	N/A	N/A Not sure there is any?
Seating Comfort	​3.5	5 Even if my feet didn't reach the floor. My issue.
Noise	3.5	5 There wasn't any, other than the trio
Entertainment	4	5 I loved them, especially their version of “When You Wish Upon a Star.” Walt D. would've been stunned.
Atmosphere	3	5 I've never been to a cigar bar. This seemed right to me.
Staff	3	5 The owner welcomed us, told us to sit anywhere. I assume everyone has to go to the bar to get a drink.
Restrooms	N/A	N/A Remarkable for me.
Parking	4	5 Seriously? Open lot in front of the place.