Best Music-Themed Bars in New York City
Underground Listening Rooms and Record-Focused Bars
Craving a listening experience, but want something a bit more relaxed than a concert? If you’re an audiophile who thinks everything sounds better on vinyl and find yourself tired of competing with someone else’s TouchTunes requests, then this compilation of the best music-themed bars in New York City is just what you’ve been looking for.
Port Sa’Id
127 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012
This underground listening room and omakase restaurant went viral on TikTok for good reason. It’s the stuff of social media fantasies, with flowers on the ceiling and an izakaya-style tasting menu alongside the constantly changing musical line-up. Unlike the other bars on this list, this isn’t somewhere you drop in for a quick cocktail on a first date.
Public Records
233 Butler St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
This stark white warehouse space houses what feels like multiple venues in one. First, an upstairs bar/listening room that looks like it belongs in a James Bond movie, then a vegan restaurant downstairs, surrounded by records while a DJ tucked away in a cozy corner plays ambient house music (although the music is constantly changing), and a lush garden outside.
Nublu
51 Loisaida Ave, New York, NY 10009
Nublu has been one of the coolest venues in the East Village since 2002, with records on the walls and old black and white movies playing on TV to disguise the speakers while popular musicians perform everything from indie pop to jazz.
Eavesdrop
674 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Venture to Greenpoint to hang out at this cozy bar, which serves craft cocktails, natural wines, small plates and vibes aplenty. Guests won’t be listening to TouchTunes or questionable jukebox music; instead, the entire space was specifically designed for sound.
Bierwax
556 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
This Prospect Heights beer bar is decidedly low-key, but with a musical twist, making it perfect for first dates or relaxed nights out. Owner Chris Maestro discovered jazz cafe culture in Japan, and wanted to bring similar vibes to New York City, so he opened this Brooklyn favorite in 2017.
Honeycomb Hi-Fi Lounge
74 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217
This teeny tiny Tokyo-style listening bar in Park Slope serves up Japanese whisky and good tunes from owner Jon Carlson’s personal vinyl collection. The dimly-lit, super narrow and intimate space is perfect for date night, especially if you’re seeing someone deeply into vinyl.
Conclusion
These innovative bars will make a night out feel extra exciting and melodic. Whether you’re an audiophile or just looking for a unique experience, these music-themed bars in New York City are sure to impress.
FAQs
Q: What makes these bars stand out from other music venues?
A: Each bar has its own unique twist, whether it’s an underground listening room, a record-focused bar, or a Japanese-style listening bar.
Q: Can I request specific songs or artists?
A: Some bars may have a "no requests, please" policy due to their extensive vinyl collections, while others may allow you to choose your own song to play.
Q: Are these bars suitable for dates or first dates?
A: Yes, many of these bars are perfect for dates or first dates, especially those with an intimate atmosphere or unique experiences.
Q: Can I find these bars in other parts of the city?
A: While most of these bars are located in Brooklyn, there are a few in Manhattan as well. Be sure to check the addresses and locations before heading out.
