Senior citizens stepping on Wednesdays? Thursday night battle of the jazz DJs? These are only a couple of the daily features offered at the East of the Ryan Lounge and Banquet Hall, examples of how owner Joycelyn Hunter keeps jazz alive for folks on the South Side. For more than 50 years, jazz lovers have come here to drink Long Islands (they probably didn't always cost $12) while listening to the likes of the Shi-Lites and Marlena Shaw.

A club for the mature crowd, East predominantly hosts guests over the age of 35. It holds a late liquor license, staying open until 5 a.m. on Saturdays. Due to the rough surrounding neighborhood, Hunter ensures a security watch for the late-night crowd.

Lucky for those who find they can't walk after an exhausting Friday night stepping session (with former B103 host Sam Chapman), a motel by the same name sits right in the same building.

Centerstage Reviewer: Nola Akiwowo