We had no idea of what we were about to experience. Let's start at the beginning. While sitting at Karakters rehydrating after one of our walks a few days ago we made online reservations for this Sundays Jazz Lunch. It took a few minutes and we received confirmation of our reservation, an easy way to do it. We got to Porto Cupecoy looked around for a bit then took our table and ordered lunch. I had a bacon cheeseburger (real ground beef not a patty)and my wife had a mushroom and goat cheese pizza, both were very good. Then the band set up, I knew 2 of the musicians Ronnie Santana and Alfredo. But what we didn't know was that this was a performance for a local woman in need, going through a bump in the road of life that obviously the local musicians knew, her name was Helen. All proceeds in the tip jar went to her. We had no idea of what we were in for. There was 15 to 20 musicians that filtered in and out of the performance. Ronnie Santana played the guitar and Alfredo on drums and then they switched, there was probably 4 different guitar players playing the same guitar depending on the song, same for the drums. There was at least 4 local women singing vocals. The same on keyboards and the horn section was ever changing. I talked to a saxophonist after the performance and he told me that all the musicians don't get the chance to play together but today it happened. We were blown away for being in the right spot at the right time for this event. It was beyond memorable. We made reservations for next Sunday before we left.
Sunday Jazz Brunch is always one of the highlights of our trip to St. Maarten. Good Lord willing, we will be sitting there in four weeks. Thanks for sharing.
What restaurant did you go to? We arrive on island on Saturday. We've only been to Porto Cupecoy one time - years ago. So, I'm not very familiar. I'd love to experience the Jazz Brunch on this trip. Any advice on what restaurant to reserve, what time to arrive, etc - would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
CaribLee gave you the restaurant. Jazz Lunch runs from 1 to 4 on Sunday. The tables are always reserved so go online and make a reservation days ahead.
Yes Carol you can hear the music from anywhere in the square and we have sat at Mama Pizza with RonDon and heard the music. But CaribLee is correct that sitting at Rendezvous you become part of the musical experience. Going back next Sunday.
This past year we finally made it to the jazz brunch at Rendezvous as we don't like giving up a beach / pool day even though we are now up to 18 days. We have eaten there many times as they prepare a very good tuna tar tar.
Definitely make a reservation at Rendezvous, enjoy a leisurely lunch, some great music and the people. Almost all locals but they make you feel at home. Music has a way of bringing people together.
The fun part is watching the musicians and you never know what they will play or who is playing what instrument. Seems some musicians can play just about every instrument and then some also do vocals.
Only downside would be on a hot, humid day. It gets hot like the music.
It really was the performance of a lifetime last Sunday. I go every Sunday for the 7 months I am here, and have to say it was phenomenal. I've been told that $4,500 was raised for Helen.
i have been telling people including here, about the jazz brunch and how great it is. We went last week, and the week before. This fun afternoon goes on weekly...and one never know who is going to show up that day. They are fantastic alone, and together. The food and service is also great. Glad you finally made it, and for those who miss this, you could be missing one of the highlights of ANY trip.
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