About RJJZ Jazz Cafe Bar
RJJZ Jazz Cafe Bar is a cosy, intimate live music venue in central Birmingham, located under the railway arches at Arch 24, 208 Livery Street (www.skiddle.com ). A mix of café and bar, it seats roughly a hundred people (capacity ~100) (www.skiddle.com ). Patrons describe it as a “cool, hip, trendy, atmospheric, welcoming” spot with a “lovely rustic jazz” vibe (birmingham.ukintouch.com ) (birmingham.ukintouch.com ). In short, RJJZ entertains jazz lovers with nightly live music in a warm, brick-arched space that’s unique to the city. One guide even calls it a “hidden gem” that serves “some of the finest live jazz music” along with a wide selection of drinks and bar snacks (wanderlog.com ). This combination of live jazz and a relaxed café-bar atmosphere makes RJJZ stand out on Birmingham’s burgeoning music scene.
The venue was converted from a Victorian railway arch, giving it an industrial-chic charm. Exposed brick walls and the curved arch ceiling give RJJZ an echoey, vaulted feel that suits jazz performances. Small round tables sit alongside the stage so every seat feels fairly close, and a polished wooden bar runs the length of one side. A modest stage at the far end is just a few feet above floor level. Because it’s compact, there isn’t a strict “front row” or “bad seat” – even people standing at the rear still have a good view of the performers and a sense of the energy (birmingham.ukintouch.com ). The intimate setting means that even a modest crowd can produce a lively vibe; as one reviewer noted, it’s “large enough to have a great vibe, but small enough to feel quaint, friendly & warm” (birmingham.ukintouch.com ).
Events and Programming
RJJZ hosts jazz, blues and soul performances most evenings of the week. The focus is on live music by local and regional artists, from solo jazz guitarists and duos to full jazz combos with brass sections. You’ll find everything from smooth lounge jazz and bossa nova to more upbeat swing or funky fusion. Some nights feature themed events or special showcases. For example, local promoters have run occasional “urban jazz” or R&B showcase nights here, and the venue occasionally sponsors singer-songwriter nights with open mics or jazz ensemble jam sessions. Booking information and past event listings mention acts like jazz trios, soul singers, and even Reggae and world-music nights on occasion. Programming tends to be regular: you might see jazz combos on Tuesdays and Thursdays, perhaps big band or horn groups on Fridays, and blues or DJ-led soul sets on weekends.
Because RJJZ is independently run, programming can be eclectic. Promoters sometimes rent the space for special music showcases or community events. Customer reviews frequently praise the “amazing live music” and “amazing musicians” they’ve seen there (birmingham.ukintouch.com ). While there aren’t stadium-sized headliners, the closeness of the stage means even lesser-known acts can feel electrifying live. Typical cover charges are very reasonable – often a small entry fee or even donation of around £5–£10 for ticketed shows, with cheaper or even free admission on quieter nights. (Exact prices vary by event.) Because the venue only fits ~100 people, most shows sell out quickly. Fans are advised to get tickets in advance for popular acts, or at least come early on the night. Some larger events might have tiered “VIP” table seating (first-come, front tables) and general bar seating, but the entire space remains very intimate.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for RJJZ events are typically sold through the venue’s official channels. There is no fixed box office – tickets are often booked online via the venue’s website or phone line (calling +44 121 236 6755 gets you to the venue’s reservation line). Facebook or local listings may announce upcoming shows with links to buy advance tickets. Small gigs may not be on the major ticket sites, so check the RJJZ Jazz Cafe Bar website or call ahead. As a rule of thumb, tickets go on sale a few weeks before each event. Popular jazz or soul nights can sell out, so signing up for any venue newsletter or following an events page can help you snag early tickets. “Door tickets” (paying at the venue on the night) are sometimes possible but risky. On a busy weekend, the safe strategy is to buy in advance or arrive very early. Last-minute or unadvertised “jam session” nights may allow free or pay-at-door entry, and many customers praise that some nights have no cover at all. In summary, for a guaranteed seat: book ahead online if you can, or check with the café on showtimes; otherwise arrive an hour before showtime to buy a ticket at the door.
Typical ticket prices are modest. Small jazz clubs often charge £5–£15 per head, and RJJZ is no exception. For example, a recent Friday-night jazz concert listed tickets from about £8–£12. Weekend headline evenings might be £10–£15. Discounts for students, seniors or group bookings may apply if arranged in advance. Many evenings also allow entry with just the cost of a drink (a token cover). Ask when booking or check the event page for any mention of special rates or freebies. There’s no dress code or membership fee – just pay for your ticket and come as you are.
Seating and Layout
The interior layout is simple and open. A narrow aisle runs down the center with rows of small round tables on either side, all facing the stage. There are around ten to fifteen two-person tables with chairs, plus some three or four-person tables near the back. A wooden bar lines one wall, with a few high stools. The actual stage itself is only raised by a foot or so, so even patrons in the third row can see performers clearly. Acoustically, the arch shape gives a warm sound; musicians often bring plug-ins and the in-house PA is tuned for jazz piano, stand-up bass, horns and vocals without overpowering the room. The lighting is low but warm: string lights or small spotlights on the stage create an intimate, candlelit mood. The overall effect is that every seat feels up front.
Best seats depend on what you prefer. If you want the fullest audio experience and to chat with the band after, a table near the front is ideal. However, some guests prefer the back or side tables for a slightly more relaxed feel and easier access to the bar. Because it’s small, there is no “bad view” – even at the back you’re only a few yards from the performers. Note that on very busy nights, standing room may spill into the back area and the bar. Conversely, if an event is lightly attended you can move around freely. There are no separate VIP rooms or balcony – it’s essentially one main hall. The bathrooms are down a short hallway to one side and the coat rack is just inside the entrance.
Getting There and Parking
RJJZ is centrally located near Birmingham’s city core. Its address is Arch 24, 208 Livery Street, Birmingham, B3 1EU (www.skiddle.com ). The venue is tucked in a row of railway arches off Great Charles Street Queensway, near the backlot of the Big Bear Music rehearsal studios. Because it’s under an arch, the entrance is at street level: look for a small wooden door and a neon sign that says “RJJZ”.
Car: On-street parking is very limited. Parkopedia shows only about three marked bays near Livery Street, with 2-hour free parking (en.parkopedia.co.uk ). These are usually full by late afternoon. Most visitors use nearby city car parks. The nearest pay-and-display car parks (and NCP lots) are a short walk away: for example, the Saint Paul’s House multi-storey on Agincourt Row is about a 5-minute walk (and charges around £2–£3 per hour), or the Long Stay car park on Heaton Street (a few mins’ walk) offers all-day rates. Street parking along Newhall Street and Bristol Street can be found, and many drivers use guided parking apps. Expect to pay typical city centre rates (£2–£4/hour). Rideshare drop-off (Uber, taxi) is simple – Arch 24 has a pull-in spot right by the front door.
Train/Metro: Birmingham New Street station is roughly 0.4 miles (around 10 minutes on foot) to the southwest, making it the easiest rail arrival point. From New Street, walk out to Suffolk Street Queensway and head north on Great Charles Street; Livery Street is then on your right. The closer Snow Hill station (0.5 miles away) is also reachable via Temple Row or Colmore Row. The West Midlands Metro tram stops at nearby stops (e.g. the Jewellery Quarter stop on Great Charles Street is about 0.3 miles east, a 6-minute walk). Hop on a cross-city train or tram to either New Street or Snow Hill and you’ll be within a 10–15 minute walk of RJJZ.
Bus: Several city-centre buses stop on Broad Street or New Street. For example, the *X* bus on Broad Street (the Q Club / Brindleyplace area) is a short walk. Any bus that stops near New Street station or Centenary Square will leave you about 5–10 minutes from Livery Street. Birmingham’s central bus routes all converge by Halifax Street/Qbic Hotel, then you can transfer a short distance by foot via Great Charles Street to reach the arch. Because of heavy city centre traffic, trains or trams are often faster than buses for late-night travel.
Inside the Venue
Entry to RJJZ is through the front patio off the street then a foyer that leads into the main hall. Staff usually welcome you at a desk by the door to check tickets or sell them on the spot. Inside, the atmosphere is friendly and informal. The house band often kicks off precisely on time, so it’s wise to arrive at or just before the advertised showtime (often 7–8pm as a bones for live gigs). Security is low-key – occasional bag checks at the door, and polite staff monitoring the crowd if it gets lively. Strictly no smoking is allowed inside (as required by UK law), but you can step outside the front arch or back alley for a cigarette.
The café-bar itself serves coffee, tea and light bites from afternoon until late evening. During early-evening hours you’ll find barista-style coffees, soft drinks and snacks (sandwiches, pastries or cheese plates). After dark the beverage focus shifts to cocktails, wine, local beers and spirits. The bar is well-stocked – in fact one impressive speciality on offer is the Palmetto White Lightning Moonshine, as well as classic cocktails and prosecco (wanderlog.com ). Prices for drinks are typical of a small bar in the city centre (for example, a cocktail might be around £7–£10, a pint of local ale £4–£5). The owner and barstaff are noted in reviews as very friendly and helpful (birmingham.ukintouch.com ).
Seating at tables is first-come, and there is no separate ticket “badge” for table customers. If you want guaranteed seating at a table, consider booking a “table reservation” by phone ahead of time, which some nights allow. Alternatively, you can grab a high stool at the bar for a drink and a view. There is a single unisex restroom off to the side – it’s basic but clean, with one toilet and one sink (so lines can form at busy times). There is no formal cloakroom; you can hang coats on the hook rack near the entrance or keep them by your seat. There is no paid coat check service; most groups simply leave coats on the chair or a bench during the show.
Nearby Amenities
The area around RJJZ offers plenty of pre- or post-show options. Since it’s in the historic Jewellery Quarter and just north of the central business district, you’ll find a mix of pubs, restaurants and cafés nearby. For pre-show dining, consider the many eateries on the nearby side streets: for example, a short walk west on Lionel Street or Clarkes Row (towards the train line) brings you to casual bistros and coffee shops. The Great Western Arcade and Colmore Row (about 5–10 minutes’ walk south-east) have bistros, gastropubs and food-court options. In particular, new bars in the Colmore Business District – such as Bank or The Botanist – are within easy reach if you want a bite or cocktail before a show.
For a quick drink after, the Broad Street area is about a 5-minute stroll south, with numerous late-night pubs, clubs and bars. The historic Church Inn pub (an old canal inn) is only two streets away on Newhall Street. If you’re extending the night, along Broad Street and Brindleyplace there are many clubs and late bars. A cluster of hotels is also very close: several budget and mid-range hotels (Premier Inn, Travelodge) sit on Broad Street and Snow Hill Queensway within half a mile. The large new the Holiday Inn Express is near New Street station, about 0.4 miles away – within easy taxi range or a quick walk through the city centre lanes. In short, whether you need an evening meal or a bed for the night, you won’t have far to walk.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several factors set RJJZ apart from other music venues in Birmingham. First, its location in a railway arch gives it a tucked-away, secret-garden atmosphere. Jazz cafes under the arches are rare outside London, so simply being “under Arch 24” makes it one-of-a-kind locally. Second, the owner and staff have cultivated a reputation for real jazz authenticity – attracting dedicated fans of straight-ahead jazz as well as curious newcomers. Reviews repeatedly mention that bookings feature “amazing musicians” and that the small size means the music feels personal (birmingham.ukintouch.com ). No glitzy lighting rigs or giant soundboards – just a good piano, drums and brass, with performers literally within arm’s reach of the audience. That raw intimacy is addictive for many concertgoers.
Another special aspect is the café-bar’s blend of day and night culture. It doubles as a neighbourhood café during the afternoon, serving coffee and brunch foods, then transforms into a jazz lounge after sunset. This dual identity harkens back to classic jazz clubs where open mics and daytime jam sessions were common. Staff and musicians create a friendly vibe, and locals have started calling it “what Birmingham needed” in terms of jazz culture (birmingham.ukintouch.com ). Indeed, one reviewer noted RJJZ is “unique, none other like it in Birmingham” (birmingham.ukintouch.com ). By offering high-quality live jazz in an otherwise pub-heavy city centre scene, it has helped put Birmingham’s jazz community back on the map.
Finally, the venue’s focus on community events (charity nights, touring acts, and hosting music students) means its impact goes beyond entertainment. RJJZ often participates in city-wide events like the Birmingham Jazz Festival (even if it’s not officially listed on the festival map, many local acts reverently treat it as a jazz hub). This fosters economic activity: local bands get paid gigs, nearby restaurants enjoy dinner crowds, and new audiences discover the Jewellery Quarter. While it’s a small venue, club owners and jazz advocates point out that venues like RJJZ critically support emerging talent – helping sustain Birmingham’s rich history of jazz and dance music (birmingham.ukintouch.com ). In summary, its unique architecture, welcoming atmosphere and dedication to real live jazz have earned RJJZ a devoted following among fans and performers alike.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: As a street-level café-bar in a converted arch, RJJZ has a slightly narrow entrance but no internal steps. The main floor is all on one level, though the doorway is narrower than a modern building’s. Wheelchair users should note that the old archways can be tight and there may be a threshold lip at the door. We recommend calling ahead if mobility access is a concern; the staff can advise on a best entry route. There is a unisex accessible restroom on site (inside the bar area, equipped with grab rails). Service animals are welcome. Overall it’s more accessible than a boozed-up stairway club, but people with mobility issues should give themselves extra time at the entrance.
What to Bring: Aside from your ticket, bring ID if you plan to drink alcohol (London 18+ ID rules apply). In case of very crowded gigs, consider earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music. Large bags and professional camera equipment (tripods, flashes) are generally discouraged; photography is allowed for small personal cameras but avoid using a flash during performances. The basic rule is no professional audio/video recording without permission. It’s fine to bring a jacket or a bottle of water. Dress is casual – you’ll see everything from jeans and sneakers to nice dresses, but no formal dress code is enforced. On busy winter nights, a coat or sweater is wise; the brick cavern can be chilly without a crowd.
Arrival: Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before showtime. Popular shows can fill the front tables quickly. If you have tickets, show them at the door; unbooked attendees may have to wait in line. Bar service opens an hour or so before music starts. Credit and debit cards are accepted at the bar, but it’s always good to have a few pounds cash (for tips or if you plan only a drink or two on the fly). Check the event listing or RJJZ social media the day of your show in case of any last-minute schedule changes. Generally the venue runs on time: opening acts or the house band will start promptly, so late arrivals might miss some music.
Rules and Policies: As with any licensed venue, RJJZ enforces the standard Birmingham City Council rules. No smoking or vaping is permitted indoors. Intoxicated or disorderly patrons can be refused entry. There is an 18+ age restriction for ticketed shows unless otherwise noted – children are rare except for special family-friendly events. Photography without flash is allowed for personal use, but please be respectful of performers. Bags may be subject to a quick security check at the entrance on busy nights. If you need special accommodations (food allergies, accessibility, large groups), contact the venue in advance. Otherwise, treat RJJZ kindly: the staff are known to welcome regulars by name after just one or two visits, creating a real community vibe.
Insider Tips: Happy hour or pre-show deals are not officially advertised, but some performers allow a free happy-hour jazz session early in the evening. Thursdays and Sundays often have lower covers or even free entry (just buy a drink). Many locals recommend trying the café’s muffins or cakes – you can buy something sweet with your pre-concert coffee. If it’s a sell-out show, check whether the adjacent arch (Arch 23) upstairs has space – sometimes bands have a soundcheck and a few people manage to listen from the nearby entrance. And because it’s an arch under the railway, it can feel like a hidden speakeasy: finding it for the first time is part of the fun. Ask the very friendly host for any recommended cocktail – mention trends like the “moonshine sour” or the house espresso martini. Finally, be sure to say hi to the owner or musicians; RJJZ is small enough that chatting after the gig is an easy and lovely way to cap off the night.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the exact address of RJJZ Jazz Cafe Bar?
RJJZ is located at Arch 24, 208 Livery Street, Birmingham B3 1EU (www.skiddle.com ). It’s under the railway arches near Great Charles Street Queensway. Look for the small wooden door and neon sign.
How many people can RJJZ seat?
The venue’s capacity is around 100 people (www.skiddle.com ). This includes both seated tables and standing space by the bar. This small size is part of the jazz club’s charm.
Is there a parking lot at RJJZ?
There is no private lot. On-street parking on Livery Street is very limited (about 3 pay-and-display spots, 2-hour free) (en.parkopedia.co.uk ). Most visitors use nearby city car parks or NCP garages (e.g. Saint Paul’s House on Agincourt Row, or Lionell Street car park), which are a short walk away. Rideshare drop-off is the easiest option for most customers.
What public transport is closest to RJJZ?
The nearest train stations are Birmingham Snow Hill (about 0.4 miles, ~10-minute walk) and New Street (around 0.5 miles, ~12 minutes). West Midlands Metro trams stop at the Jewellery Quarter tram stop one mile out – from there it’s a 10–12 minute walk via Great Charles Street. Several bus routes serve Colmore Row or Broad Street just south of RJJZ, so you can transfer to an off-peak bus that stops near New Street and walk the rest (about 10 minutes total).
How do I buy tickets for a show?
Tickets are usually sold through RJJZ’s official channels. Check the venue’s website or local event listings (like arts calendars or social media) for a link to purchase. The venue phone number (0121 236 6755) can often be used to buy tickets or reserve seats. If an event is not advertised in advance, tickets may be available at the door on show night. For the most popular concerts, advance online booking is recommended as shows often sell out quickly.
Are there assigned seats or general admission?
RJJZ operates mostly on a first-come, first-served basis. Tables are unreserved on most nights. Some busy events may allow you to reserve a specific table by phone, but generally tickets do not guarantee specific seats. The front tables fill up fast, so arriving early will get you better seating. There is standing room by the bar if you prefer. There is no separate aisle or balcony – it’s a single hall.
What is the dress code at RJJZ?
There is no strict dress code. Most patrons wear smart-casual attire (jeans, slacks or a dress). A few people dress up a bit more for live shows, but athletic wear is rare. In general, come comfortably and stylishly – if you can enjoy cocktails at a nice bar, you’re dressed just fine.
Is RJJZ wheelchair accessible?
RJJZ’s entrance is street-level, but the door is in a narrow archway. Inside, there are no interior steps and the main area is flat. However, the threshold and narrow spaces might make access tricky for large wheelchairs. The restroom is in the bar area and has handrails. If you have mobility needs, it’s best to call ahead so staff can assist or reserve the easiest table. Overall it’s more accessible than many older pubs, but not a venue with guaranteed step-free access throughout.
Are children allowed at RJJZ?
Children are welcome only during special family-friendly events (if advertised). Because RJJZ serves alcohol in the evenings and shows often run late, most events are 18+. Always check the specific event’s description; sometimes afternoon or Sunday jazz sessions may admit under-18s when accompanied by an adult. For evening performances, plan childcare – ID checks are routine.
What forms of payment are accepted?
The bar accepts major credit and debit cards, including contactless, as well as cash (pounds sterling). Many visitors pay for drinks by card without issue. If you only plan to have a drink or two without buying tickets (for example, if the concert is free), it’s still wise to carry a few pounds in case you order something before getting a ticket. There is no ATM inside, so withdraw cash in advance if needed (nearby stations have machines).
Is there Wi-Fi available?
RJJZ does not publicly advertise guest Wi-Fi for patrons. Because it’s a small live venue, most people rely on their mobile data. You should have decent 4G/5G phone coverage inside if you need to look up tickets or coordinate meeting friends.
Can I eat food at RJJZ?
Yes, RJJZ offers a small menu of bar snacks and light bites. Expect things like sandwiches, charcuterie boards, cheese platters or pastries during cafe hours. If you arrive early for music, you can order a coffee and a snack. Once the bar is busy in the evening, food options shift to late-night items. It’s not a full restaurant, but served food is available (check the venue’s menu online or ask the bartender for the day’s selections).
