There is a phenomena in the central valley happening: these places that serve up an “all-inclusive” birthday party. Pirate places, gyms, and giant bouncy-slide barns can be rented for a child’s birthday. For three hours or so, children run around; squeal; jump; eat cake; and then break the pinata while parents nibble on tiny bocas and with any luck, a latte. This building is not that. When construction started, I was so sad. I mean what else could be a tin pink, blue, and yellow two-story structure?

A jazz club of course. To my relief, jazz plays now to the west side of San Jose. The Jazz Cafe has been known around Costa Rica for as long as I’ve been here for being one of the only consistent and quality jazz clubs. Now there’s two. Although I’ve yet to go inside, a few girlfriend’s are trying to convince me to head out and catch a show. Tell me who decided these things should start at 10 p.m.? Anyway….

The design, well all’s forgiven, for what’s inside this bright - let’s say interesting - design outshines anything kind of shell it’s wrapped in. (Stay posted if I figure out how to stay up past 8 and catch a show.)

*The new Jazz Cafe is in Escazu across from Multiplaza. It’s on the frontage road to get to Cima/Plaza Itzcazu. I mean you cannot miss it. Impossible.