Picture this: an oasis of greenery, the clink of coffee cups, and jazz music filling your senses. No, you haven’t wandered into a private garden; you’ve entered the realm of Hoboken HotHouse.

While it may not be what you first imagined, Hoboken HotHouse, located at 120 Washington St., is definitely hot! Described by owner and operator, Karen Nason as an, “umbrella to bring all types of people and arts together,” HotHouse is the creative heartbeat behind a multitude of talent.

Every Saturday from 1-5 p.m. Karen redefines the meaning of “HotHouse.” On the average weekday the place is a warm greenhouse filled with Grade A plants and unique gifts. But on Saturdays and Sundays, it morphs into the word’s other definition: a jazz standard.

“My house is your house,” says Karen. While the transformation from a chic plant and landscape design shop into an umbrella for all of the arts is still underway, HotHouse’s Weekend Jazz Brunches are the first step.

Guests are invited to BYOB while indulging in a menu complete with Mediterranean infusion food and enjoying the works of various local jazz musicians.

Just to give you a taste – this past Saturday’s menu featured an Eggplant Parmigiana and Prosciutto and Mozzarella sandwich that were definitely praise-worthy. If it’s any inclination, I hate nothing more than eggplant and I wound up taking three large slices home for my freezer!

In addition to the menu, they offer Sapore gourmet Italian Specialties, including homemade raviolis and ready-to-cook pastas for sale. And they’re not just the average ravioli- they’re heart shaped!

Karen also offers the most carefully prepared cupcakes and strawberry short cakes during Jazz brunch. These yummy treats are also available daily from 10:30 a.m to 7:30 p.m (the shop’s regular business hours).

While seating is limited, it is the perfect place for an intimate quick bite or filling weekend meal. Using unique café tables and chairs that are nestled into the display of HotHouse’s plants, guests literally feel as if they are eating in the midst of a rainforest.

The calming sounds of jazz music were enticing to tourists walking on Washington Street. As we enjoyed our food, we watched as not a single person passed by without stopping to check it out. The resounding praise: “Wow…look at this place.” It will leave you in awe too, I promise!

Karen’s idea for HotHouse began originally as an upscale plant store that offered custom design terraces, gardens, landscaping, ponds and water features, and has evolved into a house for all of the arts.

Although the Jazz Brunches are the only thing officially underway, Karen hopes to bring in local poets (writers), artists, and musicians to showcase their work in line with hers. She urges anyone who fits the above descriptions to please reach out to her.

Additionally, a monthly Burlesque show is in the works. Tentatively set to launch on June 13^th at 8 p.m, you will find well-known Burlesque dancer, Hazel Honeysuckle, performing in the window. Karen asks that guests reserve Burlesque tickets in advance, and check for updates on the launch date by visiting the shop’s Facebook or webpage.

Stay up to date with all of HotHouse’s events by visiting www.hobokenhothouse.com or http://www.facebook.com/HobokenHothouse.