12/02/04

This small, out-of the-way, family-run club attracts authentic blues fans.

by Contributor

The Scene
In a yet ungentrified and primarily residential stretch of the Northwest Side, Rosa's is an intimate room where you're guaranteed to see performers onstage from all vantage points. Tables and chairs fill most of the space, but there's a pool table in the back. Manager (and musician) Tony Mangiullo and his mother (she's Rosa) run the show.

The Draw
Drink prices are reasonable, but because of its location, the bar doesn't attract the tourists that downtown blues clubs do. A host of regulars--including blue-collar folks, college kids and those willing to drive a bit to hear good blues--are dedicated to the bar and its recurring acts, such as energetic guitarist Melvin Taylor. Mangiullo occasionally rolls the dice on an out-of-town legend, often with stunning results: Connoisseurs will recognize Baton Rouge swamp blues guitarist Larry Garner and Memphis soul screamer James Carr among them.