The Piano Man

The Piano Man is one of Delhi's best-known names for live jazz, and the Malviya Nagar venue in the Eldeco Centre is one of its homes, alongside outlets in Safdarjung, Saket and Gurgaon. Its stage hosts a weekly programme of gigs, and while jazz is at the heart of the brand, the schedule covers a range of genres, so it is worth checking what is on before you go.

Shows are usually ticketed, with tickets at Malviya Nagar typically starting from a modest price, which helps keep the focus on the music. Evenings are when the gigs happen and when the venue is at its best, and Time Out's critics have given it four out of five stars.

Food and drink are well thought out. The menu is compact, with quick bites across several cuisines and fusion dishes such as wasabi broccoli and a tandoori miso lamb chop, and the bartenders will customise cocktails to your taste. Expect to spend a moderate to high amount for dinner and drinks for two, on top of the ticket price.

Book tickets in advance for popular acts and weekend nights, and arrive early if you want a table with a good view of the stage. Alcohol is not served to anyone under 25 in Delhi. The venue opens from 1pm, but evenings are strongly recommended, as that is when the live music programme runs. Check the weekly line-up on the venue's social media pages before you set out.

It suits music lovers, couples and small groups who want a night centred on live performance rather than clubbing. Visitors who want to see the independent, creative side of Delhi's cultural life will find it a good introduction, and solo travellers can comfortably enjoy a set at the bar.

Malviya Nagar is in South Delhi, close to Saket, so it combines well with dinner in that part of the city. Taxis and ride-hailing cars are the simplest way to get there and back. If the Malviya Nagar line-up does not appeal on the night you are free, check the programmes at the other Piano Man venues, which run their own schedules.