For the better part of the past two decades, Ryles has been a bastion of music and culture in Cambridge’s historically culture-rich Inman Square. With a lineup that blends traditional jazz, world music and a variety of up-and-coming Boston-area talent, the Ryles stage has hosted quite a few internationally renowned performers (notable past performers include McCoy Tyner, Maynard Ferguson, and Arturo Sandoval) while also serving as a stepping stone for young artists coming out of Boston’s many music institutions.

Affiliated with the famed local S & S diner, Ryles is known for its Southern style cuisine and ample drink menu. We recommend Thursday nights (generally around $10 cover) or the Sunday morning jazz brunch with no cover and a very reasonable menu.

In addition to the jazz club on the ground floor, the Ryles Dance Hall on the second floor offers instruction in a variety of dance styles from salsa to ballroom. Live ensembles perform in the Dance Hall only occasionally, with most of the music provided by professional DJs.