Beginning its long history in 1947, Wally’s Café, formerly Wally’s Paradise, weathered the storm of the 20th century to retain its classic charm and great lineup to be one of the longest-lasting and most respected venues for jazz in Boston.

Founded by Joseph Walcott, the first African-American jazz club owner in New England, Wally’s was able to keep the jazz hot and the overhead low by bringing in young talent from the music conservatories in the Boston area. That tradition continues today, with three nights a week reserved for the youngest up-and-coming talent, frequently borrowed from the nearby Berklee College of Music.

As with all great jazz hideouts, during the set is not the best time to be chatting with your eight friends about your New Year’s Eve plans. Come early (it’s packed every night of the week), have a few drinks, and prepare for some of the best that Boston has to offer.