Upstairs is terrific. I love music and am very knowledgeable about it, so I can tell you - this place features incredible live jazz. I've always been impressed with the food and service as well. The owner, Joel, is there most nights and often greets at the door.

The jazz club gets packed so first of all, make a reservation. If you don't, you'll be in the back - a "standing room only" area that is narrow and crowded, with wait staff going between the floor and the kitchen. If you plan on having dinner somewhere else and then arriving for music, you will likely end up in the back for a while (more on that later.) Instead, make a whole night of it at Upstairs, and enjoy it all.

Get there early. Music starts between 8:30 & 9:00, and I recommend getting seated around 7:30 to have a prime spot and get your order in before then. The service is good all the way through, but will be most attentive if you're in most need before the music begins. And when the band is playing, you can focus more on listening.

Ask to sit close to the stage and away from the door (which is drafty in the winter.) This is another reason to arrive early. People tend to talk more in the back, and it's harder to see.

Cover charges are usually $10-20, whether you have dinner or not. Considering the talent and the intimate atmosphere, it's a bargain. Bands typically play 3 sets. You really get your money's worth if you stick around.

If you arrive late and get put in the back, don't despair. It's amazing how many people will leave after the 2nd set, and chances are you'll be given a table for the rest of the show.

Great wine selection. Beer list is minimal, but in this classy place you'll be in the mood for wine anyway. The desserts are good. Unfortunately, the last couple times I was there, the cappuccino machine was broken.

I've only been to Upstairs with buddies but this would be a perfect date place. Sophisticated, romantic, and worth a splurge.

Consider staying at Manoir Ambrose, which is within easy walking distance.

Once you've been to Upstairs, you will be waiting to return.

Don't eat at the Jazz Bar. The food is overpriced and not very good. The liquor, however, is well priced, although glasses are small, and the real reason to be there is for the jazz, if you don't mind trying to hear it above the din of the audience. On one recent visit, I couldn't believe that the crowd couldn't care less about the music, and just kept talking and laughing, as if it was background music. And the trio was really good.

The setting is very nice, with exposed original stone walls, and the staff are friendly, but do yourself a favour and eat elsewhere before the show. The food at the Upstairs Jazz Bar reminds me of typical tourist trap fare.