Atlanta's Premier Listening Room

Red Light Cafe has established itself as Atlanta's go-to intimate listening room since opening in the Virginia Highland neighborhood. Located on Amsterdam Walk near Piedmont Park this cozy venue seats over 100 and maintains a bohemian living room atmosphere that serves as the city's center for bluegrass Americana folk blues and jazz.

Music Programming

The venue's commitment to live music runs deep with programming seven nights a week. The flagship Wednesday Jazz Jam with the Gordon Vernick Quartet has become one of Atlanta's longest-running jazz sessions drawing both professional and amateur musicians. Gordon Vernick professor of music at Georgia State University and coordinator of the Rialto Youth Jazz Orchestra uses these sessions to mentor young players while maintaining the highest musical standards.

First Tuesday features comedy open mic hosted by Gwen Evans. The third Tuesday offers storytelling open mic for narrative performers. Various touring acts perform throughout the week across genres from alt-country to experimental jazz. The venue has also become known for hosting unique burlesque shows including Tease Tuesday Burlesque on the second Tuesday featuring ten acts of burlesque poetry aerial acrobatics and more.

Venue Atmosphere

The space emphasizes listening - when music plays audiences give it focused attention rather than treating it as background. Full bar and kitchen operate with quality food and drinks served throughout performances. The intimate layout ensures no bad sightlines and creates connection between performers and audience.

Practical Information

Most shows have advance tickets available online with sales ending one hour before door time. Jazz jam admission is $10 at door ($5 for performers/students with ID). The venue livestreams Wednesday jazz jams on YouTube. Hours: 7 PM - 12 AM Monday through Sunday. Kitchen open until 10 PM.