Fat Sam's Grand Slam at Teddy's

Danny Masterson strikes again with a hot new jazz night that’s an ode to faux-gangster classic “Bugsy Malone.” Fans of Masterson's first jazz night, the Kids’ Cotton Club at Guy’s on Sunday nights, remember it best for three reasons: megawatt movie stars like Demi Moore chilling out, Lindsay Lohan getting rejected at the door, and stellar sets with impromptu guests such as Christina Aguilera.

When Guy's closed for remodeling, the weekly night moved to the old Sunset Room space, where it didn't do as well. So Masterson reinvented the night as Fat Sam's Grand Slam at Teddy's on Thursdays. And a grand slam it is.

The new night debuted on Valentine's Day; how fitting that Maroon 5's James Valentine was in the house along with Adam Levine and “Mad Men” star January Jones. Combining Teddy's exclusive door policy with Masterson's strict dress code—dresses on ladies, suits for the gentlemen—this is one club that's tough to get into. Even his celebrity friends have to show up polished or risk being denied.

But it's these factors that elevate the experience, turning the hotel bar into a glam old-school speakeasy, complete with blue lighting, cafe-like seating and Hennessy drink specials.

Just like at Kids’ Cotton Club, the band plays a sophisticated yet playful mix of blues and funk-tinged jazz. While some of the guys are seasoned pros, other members are a little wet behind the ears, grooving more than keeping up with the innovative improv sets.

Although hip-kid jazz nights have gotten more popular, this intimate live night is a welcome break from commonplace DJ-driven dance nights.

—Kathryn Romeyn

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