Fine Italian Cuisine.
Swingin' Acoustic Jazz.
Experience the warmth of authentic Roman gastronomy paired with live, sophisticated jazz every Thursday evening from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM in Pacific Grove.
When
Thursdays 6–8 PM
Happy Hour
5–6 PM ($3 Off Wine)
Volume
Acoustic & Conversational
Location
110 Central Ave, PG
Where Culinary Heritage Meets the Rhythm of Monterey
Located in the heart of Pacific Grove, Il Vecchio has earned its place as Monterey County's premier trattoria for 15 consecutive years. Every Thursday night, our rustic dining room transforms into an intimate haven for music lovers.
Cena Jazz (Dinner Jazz) presents top-tier instrumentalists playing timeless selections from the Great American Songbook, warm bossa nova, and soulful blues. Designed at an acoustic volume tailored for perfect dining ambience, the music elevates your evening without overpowering conversation.
Authentic Roman Cuisine
Handmade pastas, braised meats, & regional Italian wine listings.
Balanced Acoustics
Soft, ambient acoustic amplification crafted specifically for dinner conversation.
JAZZ
"Tight, soulful, and effortlessly cool—this is how live jazz in a neighborhood trattoria is supposed to feel."
Featured Musicians
Our rotating ensemble gathers some of the Central Coast's finest talents for an unforgettable night of musical chemistry.
Piano
TJ Kuenster
Renowned Pianist & Arranger
Former Music Director for Glen Campbell. TJ brings world-class piano artistry and rich melodic depth to the Cena Jazz stage.
Piano
Bill Spencer
Master Jazz Keyboardist
A beloved local favorite known for his swingin' swing feel, intricate chord harmonies, and seamless improvisation.
Drums & Percussion
Rick Ciardella
Percussionist & Rhythm Director
The heartbeat of the Cena Jazz Trio. Rick's delicate brushwork and nuanced latin percussion lay down subtle, irresistible grooves.
Bass Lineup
Chris Charman & Pete Lips
Acoustic Bass Masters
Anchoring the ensemble with warm, resonant low-end grooves that keep every arrangement tight and expressive.
Signature Flavors of Rome
Authentic Spaghetti alla Carbonara
$28Imported Guanciale, fresh organic egg yolks, Pecorino Romano PDO, and coarsely cracked black pepper. Made strictly traditional.
Handmade Lamb Pappardelle
$32Wide ribbons of house-made egg pasta tossed with slow-braised Colorado lamb ragù, rosemary, and shaved Parmigiano.
Barolo Braised Short Ribs
$38Tender beef short ribs braised in red Barolo wine reduction, served over creamy saffron polenta and roasted root vegetables.
Thursday Jazz Happy Hour
Enjoy $3 off all wines by the glass every Thursday from 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM before the live set begins at 6:00 PM.
*Reservations highly recommended for seatings starting between 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM.
Upcoming Thursday Shows
TJ Kuenster Trio
TJ Kuenster (Piano), Chris Charman (Bass) & Rick Ciardella (Drums)
Bill Spencer Trio
Bill Spencer (Piano), Chris Charman (Bass) & Rick Ciardella (Drums)
TJ Kuenster & Michael Marcus
TJ Kuenster (Piano), Michael Marcus (Bass) & Rick Ciardella (Drums)
Julie Capili with the Trio
Featuring acclaimed jazz vocalist Julie Capili alongside the Cena Jazz Trio.
Location & Dining Hours
Phone Reservations
(831) 324-4282
Call after 3:00 PM dailyThursday Schedule
5:00 PM: Dinner Service & Happy Hour Begins
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Live Cena Jazz Performance
An Intimate Coastal Atmosphere
Tucked away near the Pacific Grove shoreline, Il Vecchio offers a warm, stone and dark-wood Roman trattoria ambiance. Perfect for anniversaries, date nights, or casual gatherings over smooth acoustic jazz.
Cena Jazz Night
Select your preferred Thursday and party size.
You can also reserve directly by calling Il Vecchio at (831) 324-4282.