Nestled in the vibrant RiNo district of Denver, Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club stands as a testament to the enduring power of jazz and fine dining. In a space where the rhythmic clinks of wine glasses create a backdrop to the soulful sounds of live jazz, this establishment has successfully woven together music and gourmet cuisine, fulfilling a dream that started a decade ago.
Scott and Nicole Mattson, the husband-and-wife duo behind Nocturne, envisioned a place that would connect with both seasoned jazz enthusiasts and a newer generation of listeners. Speaking to 5280 ten years ago, Scott articulated their aspiration: “We want to create a place where we can reach a generation of listeners.” Fast forward to today, and Scott reflects that their median age now hovers around 35 or 36, a significant shift from when they opened with an audience closer to 60.
The journey to establishing Nocturne was fraught with challenges, especially given the state of the neighborhood and the waning interest in jazz music at the time. Despite the hurdles—including a pandemic that temporarily silenced their music—Scott and Nicole have proven themselves resilient, adapting their vision to the evolving landscape.
The couple’s love story predates their business venture and significantly shapes their club’s ethos. High school sweethearts, they always dreamed of opening a jazz club together. Scott, a jazz drummer, pursued music education at Metropolitan State University, while Nicole cultivated her hospitality skills at the University of Denver. Along the way, Nicole often accompanied Scott to gigs, envisioning a more enchanting experience for jazz fans.
Their passion prompted them to leave secure hospitality jobs in Vail and take a leap of faith into the jazz world—the very week a New York Times headline proclaimed “Jazz is dead.” With optimism, Nicole recalls their determination: “We were like, ‘I think we can fix this.’”
Choosing to establish Nocturne in the Five Points neighborhood was fitting, given its historical significance as “the Harlem of the West,” a place where jazz legends like Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong once graced the stage. The Mattsons aimed to honor that legacy while spotlighting emerging talent in the revitalized RiNo district.
Scott explains their timing of entering the scene was serendipitous, allowing them to provide a platform for younger jazz musicians like Annie Booth and Gabriel Mervine to showcase their talents.
Nocturne has carved out its identity as more than just a music venue. From the outset, the Mattsons envisioned a cohesive experience blending food, drink, and performances. Initially, the menu featured a mix of casual and refined options, from Cubano sliders to intricate five-course tasting menus. Finding the right blend of food and music took time, but the pandemic ultimately catalyzed a refined approach. Nicole reflects on this evolution: “I think one of the unexpected silver linings of COVID was how it pushed us to evolve.”
Restrictions during the pandemic prompted them to rethink their service model, leading to the innovative three-course dinner-and-a-show format now standard during their evening performances. For $98 per person, guests enjoy a curated meal and live jazz, creating an atmosphere that fosters deeper connections among patrons, while those at the bar can still enjoy à la carte offerings.
The club also features unique events such as the Ellington Experience, a five-course tasting inspired by the legendary Duke Ellington, and the Renditions series, which uses iconic albums to inspire creative menus. With 32 successfully completed renditions, this approach has consistently drawn enthusiastic crowds, including a sold-out Zeppelin-themed dinner led by guitarist Dave Devine.
At Nocturne, the culinary offerings, curated by chef de brigade Jim Wiggington, reflect the improvisational nature of jazz. Nicole notes that the kitchen is inspired by the music as chefs translate musical elements into culinary experiences. The menu, grounded in French and Italian tradition, changes every few weeks, just like a jazz setlist.
Reflecting on ten years of memorable evenings at Nocturne, the Mattsons share fond memories of unique performances, like Annie Booth’s jazz-infused interpretations of Beatles classics and Jean-Luc Davis’ grunge-inspired sets. Yet, it’s the intimate moments shared among guests—first dates, anniversary celebrations, and heartfelt proposals—that truly resonate with the couple. Nicole notes, “We’ve grown to be more of a romantic date night than the typical bar scene.”
Knowing they play a part in their patrons’ significant life events touches the Mattsons deeply. “I don’t think I anticipated how heartwarming that would be when we opened the doors 10 years ago,” Nicole admits. “Now it’s just part of why I go to work every day.”
As partners in both marriage and business, Scott and Nicole appreciate the complexities of intertwining their personal and professional lives. Scott describes the experience as a dream come true, remarking, “I wouldn’t do it with anyone else.”
Looking toward the future, both remain optimistic about the trajectory of Nocturne and the jazz genre as a whole. Nicole expresses hope, saying, “We see young musicians come through here, and you can just feel the raw potential.” This enduring belief in the future of jazz mirrors their commitment to creating a welcoming space that nourishes both art and community. Nocturne Jazz & Supper Club has not only survived the challenges of the past decade but has also thrived, standing strong in the heart of Denver’s vibrant culture.
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