See why one of Orlando’s newest concert venues is quickly becoming one of our most popular.

Live music is my favorite form of entertainment — and the cozier the setting, the better the show as far as I’m concerned. Lucky for me, then, that Orlando has numerous small concert venues, the newest of which just happens to excel at acoustics, atmosphere, appetizing bites and an amazing drink selection. It’s called Judson’s Live, and you’ll find it at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Orlando’s City District.

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I recently had the opportunity to experience Judson’s for myself, and it was everything this small-venue fan could ask for — and then some. If you’re interested in catching talented musicians up close with a side of stellar drinks and small plates, then you’ll want to experience it, too. Here are the top reasons why.

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The Room

The world’s most musical cities are home to legendary listening rooms — and Judson’s Live is definitely in that class. Intimate and inviting, the ADA-accessible space features a slightly elevated performance area surrounded by table seating for 150, plus an expansive bar. Subtle lighting, dark blue upholstery and lots of wood finish further set the tone.

Speaking of tones, Judson’s was designed with awe-inspiring acoustics in mind, and it certainly delivers on that front. Even without the venue’s remarkable sound space, you’d be hard pressed to not hear every note perfectly given that no seat in the house is far from the performance area.

In fact, some musicians will even play for you tableside. Saxophonist B.K. Jackson, who spent four years touring with the late, great Prince, was the featured act during my visit, and the man was not shy about traveling the room as he played. It was like being invited to join a band on stage without even having to leave my seat!

The Musicians

Judson’s is named after the late Judson Green, an accomplished jazz musician and longtime Dr. Phillips Center board member. And though jazz is frequently on the musical menu, you can hear many other sounds here, including R&B, rock, Broadway, funk, country, classical and more.

You can also look forward to a mix of local, regional, national and even international talent, many of which offer affordably priced tickets. The artists usually play two shows a night, too, giving more people the chance to catch their acts.

Check our events calendar to see who’s coming to Judson’s and the Dr. Phillips Center’s other venues, including Steinmetz Hall, the Walt Disney Theater, the Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, and the outdoor Seneff Arts Plaza.

Discover: Orlando Events

The Menu

Elevated music isn’t the only reason to visit Judson’s. Remember the table seating? It comes with table service, inviting you to order from a scrumptious menu of shareable boards, small plates and flatbreads, as well as handmade cocktails, top-shelf spirits, and curated wines and beers.

I visited Judson’s with my wife and three other couples, so we were able to sample a little bit of everything. The Truffalo Meatballs — chicken meatballs smothered with truffle Buffalo sauce — were my favorite, and the Chorizo Arancinis (shaved Manchego, micro cilantro, sherry queso) and Beef Sliders (pepper jack cheese, bacon jam, crispy onions, garlic butter, spiced barbecue crisps) will also have me coming back for more. Based on feedback from our group, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

For cocktails, I opted for a Spicy Margarita (Tanteo Jalapeño Tequila, Gran Gala Orange Liqueur, blood orange sour) followed by The Boulevardier (Hudson Bright Lights Bourbon, Campari, Antica Sweet Vermouth, chilled over an ice sphere with orange peel). I’m pleased to report they left my whistle fully wetted. My wife went with a mocktail and was equally impressed.

So, be sure to arrive at Judson’s hungry and thirsty — you won’t leave disappointed.

The Lowdown

Now that you know why you’ll want to visit Judson’s, here are my tips for making the most of your experience. First, I strongly recommend getting tickets in advance — walk-ups are accommodated whenever possible but are always subject to availability. And in addition to guaranteed entry, buying ahead of time lets you reserve specific seats. Choices include two-top and four-top tables, as well as bar seating.

Ample parking is available near the Dr. Phillips Center, which also offers valet service. Once you arrive, head to the dedicated Judson’s entrance on the building’s north side, near the corner of Rosalind Avenue and South Street. The friendly staff will whisk you to your seats so you can get comfy and place an order before the show starts. (You can order during the concert, too.)

I should also mention that despite the upscale atmosphere, there’s no dress code at Judson’s. Dress up or dress down, whichever you prefer.

Guests are ushered out shortly after each show ends, so don’t expect to stay all night. Fortunately, you’ll find plenty of other things to do, eat and drink in City District and its surrounding Orlando Main Street neighborhoods. Thornton Park District, Parramore District, SODO District and Mills 50® are all immediately adjacent to the area, with many others close by. Mix and match as you see fit.

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Still have questions or ready to buy tickets? Visit the Dr. Phillips Center online. I’m about to hop on there myself to figure out what Judson’s show I’m going to next — hope to see you there.

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