Historical Summer 1993 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
West End Wines, a neighborhood establishment for almost ten years, has joined the jazz explosion which has been taking St. Louis by storm.
While the metropolitan area is home for many different types of jazz clubs, West End Wines may be unique in offering a smoke-free, inlbrmal environment where patrons enjoy mainstream, acoustic piano jazz with accompaniment.
After completing reorganization of the space:in their establishment at Pershing and Belt, partners John Sappington and Melanie Harvey began the Friday jazz nights because “we liked the idea of doing it,” as John so succinctly put it recently.
The space can seat foray-five patrons at tables and the bar, and those patrons are treated to some of the best St. Louis talent available. Since January, pianist Kim Portnory has played with bass player Ric Vice, with guitarist Steve Schenkel, and currently, with vocalist Asa Harris.
During the month of May, award-winning bass player Steve Kirby was joined by pianist Petah Williams. in addition other talented musicians have been known to sit in.
When asked about future plans, Sappington said that the format will continue to be mainstream, acoustic piano jazz, The groups have mainly produced improvisations based on popular American composers such as George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, and Count Basic.
The first set is at 8:30; the second at 9:30. ‘Then: is a $3.00 cover charge and a single minimum drink or beverage order per set. Wine may also he purchased and served from the retail shop for a small corkage fee. Currently, there is a light cold menu available including pates. cheeses and fruits, and pasta salad.
There may be the possibility of adding coffee and dessert at a later date.
The evening has been planned so that patrons may either make a night of jazz and light refreshments or easily work in other engagements or dining plans.
The retail portion of the shop is also open until Il p.m. Friday wine tastings are still available but end promptly at 8 before the jazz begins.
The philosophy behind the retail business of West End Wines has been to provide a variety of excellent wines, beers, and spirits for the most discerning and knowledgeable clients to the neophyte who is just embarking on the eonnoisseur’s journey.
It would seem that the same philosophy has spilled over into the Friday jazz nights–the dedicated jazz aficionado can be enriched right along side the person who would like a relaxed introduction to the art.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, Summer 1993.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times1993_06.pdf, printed page(s) 5; PDF page(s) 5.
