Circle of Fifths is above Blu Jazz
Jessica never set out to be a full-time bartender really, and she loathes the term "mixologist.” Five years ago, she made a career pivot, trading in her marketing gig for a shaker, some bitters, and a point to prove. Self-taught and stubborn, with a commitment to always be teachable, she went from slinging plastic at a sports bar to crafting cocktail menus and designing her own spaces at record speed.
When she is not behind the bar, you can find Jessica flipping through a good book, spinning her vinyl collection, finding excuses to get way overdressed, cooking something ridiculous, or harassing Tommy. She shares her home with one very orange and very talkative cat, Yum Yum Sauce.
Her favorite drink is a peated single malt over a big rock; more than anything, her real favorite thing is making people laugh and creating fancy little bevvys with spirits people insist they hate. So sit back, take a risk with your order, and watch her work.
First driven toward a career in medical research and counseling, Tommy left college to connect to real stories outside of a lab. He found mentors that shared the tradition of making drinks and sharing stories in a way that felt timeless and necessary. “If you’re going to do something, do it right the first time”. As a multipassionate person who loves poetry, music, philosophy, and medicine, drink making has become a medium to translate time-honored recipes like the classic canon of great authors and composers for what this moment calls for: bold and fresh flavors with just the right amount of gin. Moving to Akron and sharing this craft has brought so many beautiful friendships and a community that has made this whole journey worth it.
When on the other side of the bar, Tommy’s drink of choice is a crisp gin and tonic or glass of sparkling wine and can be found writing his first novel at a coffee shop, getting lost exploring new trails, teaching himself how to bake, or being taken on long thrifting expeditions with Jessica. He’s always playing around with a new concoction to amp up a classic cocktail recipe and loves to make custom drinks by raiding the back bar for what is lying around. Just picture how you want your drink to taste and give him 3 adjectives to describe it–he’ll take it from there.
Chef Adam Heidt is a local cuisine connoisseur who has a plethora of dining ideas and a refined pallete. As a husband and father, Chef Adam has started and led some of the most premier local eating establishments in the greater Akron area. Circle of Fifths and BLU Jazz are lucky to have such an inventive and refined chef who brings his expertise to the table for music and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
We’re lucky to be surrounded by good people doing good things. After your drink, follow the music, chase the night, or circle back for one more.
51 East Market St, Akron, OH
Live shows, jam sessions, and a back patio that feels like a secret. Great beer, better vibes. Post-dinner pit stop approved.
Musica's Website22 North High St, Akron, Ohio
Baxter’s Speakeasy is always up to something—a pop-up, a party, a playlist you forgot you loved. The kitchiest bar in town.
Baxter's Website47 East Market St, Akron, OH
Tucked in our own basement, it’s the jazz spot. Come for the music, stay for the cocktails, and stay the night.
Blu Jazz's Website20 North High St, Akron, Ohio 44308
The rowdy cousin. Shots, beers, and bartenders who know your name. Right next to Baxter’s, always packed, always friendly.
Hop House's WebsiteSign up to hear about upcoming events, monthly pop-ups with local chefs and bartenders, and the kinds of nights that feel like stories worth retelling. No spam—just the good stuff.
