I came across this place on instagram and decided to celebrate my birthday there with my friends. We had a wonderful time! It was our first Omakase experience and it did not disappoint. The food, the ambiance, the music, the staff - everything was great and we all had so much fun. Would definitely recommend it. Thank you!
Overview
Located at 127 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012, the Tokyo Record Bar is a one-of-a-kind experience that combines an eclectic mix of fine dining, a cozy atmosphere, and a love for music. This hidden gem has become a favorite for locals and visitors alike, thanks to its intimate setting and unique concept. Whether you're a foodie, a music lover, or both, this is a place that promises something special.
The concept behind Tokyo Record Bar is as innovative as it is charming. Each guest is invited to select records from the restaurant's impressive vinyl collection, which spans decades of genres and moods. After making your pick, the staff plays your record choice while you enjoy an exquisite multi-course meal. It’s a concept that perfectly marries great food and music, creating a dynamic dining experience that’s far from the ordinary.
The menu at Tokyo Record Bar is equally as compelling as its music selection. The food is inspired by traditional Japanese cuisine but presented with a modern twist. From delicate sushi to comforting noodle dishes, every bite is a work of art. The restaurant prides itself on sourcing fresh ingredients, and it shows in the flavors. One standout is the chef’s choice of small plates, which offers a sampling of the restaurant's finest dishes in one unforgettable meal. Each dish complements the record playing in the background, heightening the overall sensory experience.
If you’re not sure where to start, the omakase-style menu is an excellent choice. With this menu, guests are treated to a curated selection of dishes designed to showcase the best that Tokyo Record Bar has to offer. It’s a way to experience the restaurant's offerings without having to decide for yourself, and it’s perfect for those who want to dive deep into Japanese-inspired flavors.
The staff at Tokyo Record Bar is attentive without being overbearing, always ready to make recommendations based on your tastes and the music you choose. It’s clear that everyone here is passionate about creating an experience that is both personal and memorable. The atmosphere is casual yet refined, offering a perfect balance for those looking for a fun night out or a quiet dinner. The small seating arrangement enhances the feeling of exclusivity, making each meal feel like a private concert.
In addition to its standout menu, Tokyo Record Bar’s interior is cozy and intimate. Dim lighting, warm wooden accents, and a carefully curated selection of vinyl records create an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. The seating is snug but comfortable, and the vibe encourages guests to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food and music.
When it comes to drinks, the restaurant offers a thoughtful selection of beverages that pair well with the menu. Whether you’re a fan of Japanese whiskey, sake, or craft cocktails, there’s something to suit every palate. The drink menu is as much a part of the experience as the food, and it provides the perfect complement to your meal.
One of the best things about Tokyo Record Bar is its commitment to offering an authentic and personal experience for each guest. The combination of delicious food, great music, and a unique atmosphere makes it stand out in a city known for its food scene. The restaurant manages to carve out its own niche by offering something different-an experience that combines the art of dining with the joy of music.
Given its limited seating, it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance. While it may be tempting to simply walk in, doing so could result in long wait times, especially on weekends. Booking ahead ensures that you’ll have a seat and the chance to enjoy the full Tokyo Record Bar experience without any hassle.
If you’re looking for a restaurant that offers more than just a meal, Tokyo Record Bar is definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re there to savor the dishes or to explore the extensive record collection, it promises a dining experience that’s unlike any other. Every meal is an event, and every record adds a personal touch to the evening.
It’s a place that brings people together, offering a unique blend of food, music, and atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere. With its cozy vibe, impeccable menu, and unforgettable concept, Tokyo Record Bar is truly a dining experience to remember.
Good to know
From the business
✓ Identifies as women-ownedService options
✓ Dine-in ✓ Delivery ✓ TakeawayHighlights
✓ Great cocktailsPopular for
✓ DinnerAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entranceOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Late-night food ✓ Spirits ✓ WineDining options
✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Reservations required ✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsPhotos
1 / 4
Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 447 reviews
A mixed bag, I’d say. To begin with, this place scores high in the vibes category. It has record in the name, so good music is a given. (Though don’t expect to hold a conversation… it’s very very loud.) The walls are papered with a cool and actually hilarious wine-focused manga. We sat upstairs, in the cocktail bar, which was a mistake—stick to the omakase downstairs. Still, the food we ate was quite good and wholly unique. Unami-spicy-sweet popcorn, eaten with chopsticks, naturally, was delightful. A tuna tartare of sorts on a crunchy corn tortilla, with smoky roe scattered on top, was refreshing. Most delicious was the kanpachi crudo: the fish set atop a shiso leaf on a nori-covered rice cracker. It was innovative melange of flavor and texture—it sounds simple but was honestly unlike anything I’ve ever eaten. The service was, unfortunately, rather lacking, and in general we were left hungry. But—glad to have tried this unique spot.
Another date experience! I purchased the "Vinyl Jukebox - Izakaya Tasting Experience" (aptly named) via OpenTable for this night out. Great food, drink, conversation, music, and impromptu performances (we were voguing and vibing)! A very intimate space (they do a lot with the square footage they have downstairs, where the culinary journey was held); it was the perfect place to go after hearing and dancing to Robert Glasper at Blue Note Jazz Club right around the corner.
I absolutely loved Tokyo Record Bar and can’t recommend it enough! Every dish was delicious and thoughtfully prepared huge kudos to the chef for such creativity and flavor:) The variety of the menu, the super friendly staff, and the vibrant, fun ambiance made the whole evening unforgettable. I especially loved the personal touch of choosing a vinyl song to be played such a cool and unique experience!!
Cool basement tasting menu with a soundtrack that all the diners help contribute to. The concept is fun, but in practice, it's okay. The food is very good and creative. A lot of fresh ingredients and nut creams made for a refreshing yet filling meal. My favorite was an early dish which was crudo with, I believe, a jalapeño sorbet and cashew cream. I didn't love the cocktails as they were all very alcohol forward, and I don't think they paired well with any of the dishes. I'll probably get sake next time.
This place has a really great atmosphere. It’s very small, but it was just what we were looking for. The drinks are good, and the staff is very friendly and accommodating. I’d recommend the gin & tonic.
Love this hidden jem! I went there for the first time a few years ago and again last weekend. The food and services are fantastic! This may be one of my NYC top 10 restaurants and experiences to try. Highly recommend. The menu is fixed, so just sit back and enjoy the phenomenal flavors in an intimate setting.