by Charlesetta Thompson

Finesse

Finesse: A Jazz Supper Club located at 2722 N. Martin Luther King Drive features jazz elegance and neo soul. They hosted their grand opening on Friday, January 26.

According to proprietor Tatia Jackson, the club will showcase local and national jazz artists on a regular basis.

“I’ve dreamed of opening a supper club since I was a teenager,” Jackson said.

The menu offers a variety of appetizers, salads, soups and entrees. The Friday fish fry should be a hit with patrons. Finesse has a welcoming atmosphere and ambience, decorated in calm cool colors, with a front and back bar, grand piano and art work.

Ebony McFadden is general manager. Watch for upcoming events at www. finesselive.com

Hours: 4:30 pm to midnight weekdays, to 2 am on weekends.

Ray’s Rhythm & Blues

Just a few door away at 2712 N. Martin Luther King Drive is the recently-opened Ray’s Rhythm & Blues Club. Ray’s features live jazz and blues four nights a week and open-mic poetry occasionally. Tony Carter is the owner. Stop by to get your groove on!

Soche Milwaukee

Soche Milwaukee, located at 2213 N. Martin Luther King Drive is definitely posh! This restaurant/lounge had its grand opening in December, featuring a scrumptious menu with entrees ranging from $10 to $15. There’s lots of space for your enjoyment – the two levels seat up to 160 people.

Proud owners Corey and LaMonica Smith are not new to business; they also own two coffee shops. The entrepreneurial spirit runs in the family – Corey’s brother owns a well known barber shop, Gee’s Clippers, next door at 2215.

Riverwest Currents online edition – February, 2007