Reporter Food: Baker’s Keyboard Lounge Jazz Club in Detroit
(Crystal A. Proxmire, July 25, 2019)
Detroit, MI – At 20510 Livernois, just south of 8 Mile, is a place that is rich with history as well as with hearty soul food – Baker’s Keyboard Lounge Jazz Club.
It was built in 1933 and has been focused on jazz music since 1939.  A historic plaque at the site shares some of Baker’s history.  “Baker’s Keyboard Lounge has hosted the greatest names in blues and jazz… Some of the musicians who have played the club include: Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis, Oscar Peterson, George Shearing, Sarah Vaughn, Joe Williams, Maynard Ferguson, Cab Calloway, Woody Herman, Modern Jazz Quartet, and Nat “King” Cole; to name but a few.”
The stars of any evening have a small stage where they can make music for the people looking on from their tables.   The walls are adorned with posters of jazz legends.  A black and white themed decor reminds guest of piano keys, including the edge of the winding bar.
Baker’s specialty cocktail list pays homage to artists like Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Ella Fitzgerald..  I ordered the Betty Carter – a mix of chocolate coconut vodka, Godiva Chocolate Liqueur, and hazelnut liqueur. My friend had the Aretha Franklin made with Don Julio Blanco Tequilla, pineapple puree, triple sec, and lime.
We started with an appetizer of catfish nuggets which were meaty and well-coated with golden breading. I had the meatloaf along with yams and macaroni and cheese.  My friend had the smothered fried pork shop, macaroni and cheese, and collard greens.  Both the dishes were topped with thick, rich, gravy.  Both were delicious.
Check out more about Baker’s Keyboard Lounge Jazz Club on their website www.theofficialbakerskeyboardlounge.com.
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