The overarching vision for The Raphael hotel’s signature restaurant, Chaz on the Plaza, is to stand out as a uniquely Kansas City destination dining establishment. Locally inspired food and décor are the obvious elements that flow from that vision, but insiders are quick to point to the music as perhaps playing an even more prominent role in defining the restaurant. 'Live music plays a central role in the dining experience at Chaz on the Plaza,' says Steve Miller, director of operations. 'People come to enjoy a fine meal in a comfortable atmosphere. What music provides is an atmospheric nuance that enlarges their experience with friends and the food.' Local and regional artists are featured live in the Chaz lounge nightly and during Weekend Jazz Brunch from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The format presents a variety of performance styles and genres of music. The emphasis is on original compositions. Recorded music, including original recordings from featured performers, are broadcast through the restaurant’s sound system during non-live hours of operation. 'We want Kansas City to think of Chaz as a music room,' says Miller. 'Chaz is about showcasing the diversity of musical talent that comprises this vibrant artistic community.' Jazz receives top billing due to Kansas City’s historical role as an incubator of jazz, but other genres being featured include blues, classical, rock and pop. The variety allows for visitors and local patrons to experience a larger body of Kansas City sound––music that is real, being created and performed by local artists. Several of the artists perform acoustically. 'Acoustic music fits with The Raphael’s heritage for originality,' says Miller. 'The technique gives a purer, more authentic sound to the instrumentation and certain literature.' Performers and their audiences find comfort and engagement in the intimate confines of Chaz Lounge. Kansas City jazz singer Shay Estes expresses it well: 'What is lovely about Chaz is the ability to connect directly with an audience right in front of you who come to Chaz specifically for the music, while creating an atmosphere right for diners at a distance seeking their own experience,' says Estes. Visitors wanting to plan their visit around musical performances may read brief bios of upcoming entertainers on the Entertainment Calendar.
