Tokyo Record Bar

- 127 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012

Tucked away on MacDougal Street, just a stone's throw from the vibrant energy of Greenwich Village, Tokyo Record Bar offers a dining experience unlike any other in New York City. This unique establishment is not just a Japanese restaurant; it's a cozy, subterranean listening bar inspired by the intimate "vinyl jewel boxes" of Tokyo. It seamlessly blends delicious, thoughtfully prepared Japanese food with an exceptional music-forward concept. This women-owned business has created a space where the food, drinks, and ambiance work in perfect harmony to deliver a truly unforgettable evening. From the moment you step inside, you are transported to a place that feels both exclusive and welcoming, making it an ideal choice for a special date night or a unique outing with friends.

The atmosphere at Tokyo Record Bar is both casual and trendy, with a distinctively cozy feel that encourages a sense of communal enjoyment. The focus here is on the overall sensory experience, with a carefully curated soundtrack that is as important as the food itself. This place is all about the vibe, and it has perfected the art of creating an intimate party-like setting for its guests. It’s a popular spot for dinner and is a significant draw for both tourists seeking a one-of-a-kind experience and locals looking for a creative night out. Its blend of great food, inventive cocktails, and a unique musical element makes it a standout destination in a city full of culinary options.

Tokyo Record Bar is located at 127 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012, in the heart of Greenwich Village. Its location on this famous street places it in a highly trafficked area, with plenty of public transportation options nearby. The A, B, C, D, E, F, M, 1, 2, 3, and R, W subway lines all have stations within walking distance, making it convenient to get to from almost anywhere in the city. The restaurant is situated in a basement space, which contributes to its intimate and hidden-gem feel.

As a destination that requires a reservation and is located in a bustling part of the city, walking or using public transportation is highly recommended. Parking in Greenwich Village can be notoriously difficult and is typically limited to paid street parking. The experience at Tokyo Record Bar is focused on the in-house dining experience, so guests should plan their journey to arrive comfortably and on time for their reservation.

The dining experience at Tokyo Record Bar is highly curated and centered around its unique concept.

• Dine-in: This is the only service option offered, as the experience is designed to be enjoyed on-site. The restaurant provides table service, and the entire evening is a journey through food and music.
• Reservations Required: Due to its small size and immense popularity, reservations are required for the main dining experience, known as the "Vinyl Jukebox - Izakaya Tasting Experience." Dinner reservations are highly recommended and often must be booked well in advance.

Tokyo Record Bar is celebrated for several unique features that distinguish it from a typical restaurant.

• Vinyl Jukebox - Izakaya Tasting Experience: This is the main attraction. It's a seven-course omakase-style menu where the food is chef-selected, and the music is guest-selected. Each guest gets to choose one song from a massive vinyl collection, and the selections are compiled into the evening's playlist. This creates a highly participatory and communal atmosphere.
• Great Cocktails: The bar offers a wide range of expertly crafted cocktails, with creative names and unique flavor profiles. The drinks menu is extensive and includes everything from classic cocktails to house specialties, ensuring there's a perfect pairing for every dish.
• Extensive Drink Offerings: In addition to cocktails, the beverage list is a highlight. It features a carefully curated selection of sake by the glass and bottle, as well as a variety of beers and an impressive list of still wines and champagnes. This ensures a beverage for every preference.
• Casual and Cozy Atmosphere: The small, intimate space and decor contribute to a warm and welcoming feel. The dim lighting and sound system create an environment that feels like a private party, perfect for conversation and enjoying the music.
• Late-night Food: The restaurant offers late-night dining options, catering to the city's lively evening crowd.

For more information about reservations or to plan your visit, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: 127 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012, USA

The dining experience at Tokyo Record Bar is centered around the "Vinyl Jukebox - Izakaya Tasting Experience," a prix-fixe, seven-course menu. As the food is an omakase-style selection from the chef, you get to enjoy a variety of delicious and creative dishes without having to choose them yourself. The menu is known to change with the seasons and market availability, but it always features a nod to classic Japanese drinking food, such as crisp tempura, sashimi, and robata bites. Past guests have raved about dishes like tuna tataki don and crispy potatoes, noting the thoughtfulness and flavor in every bite.

While the food is set, the beverage menu is where you can make your own choices, and it is just as integral to the experience. The cocktails are highly recommended, with creative options like the Yuzu Sour and the 'Spicy' Margarita providing a perfect balance to the rich flavors of the food. For those who appreciate Japanese beverages, the sake selection is a must-explore, with options by the glass or a wide range of bottles, from the tropical notes of the KOIMARI, TROPICAL JUNMAI DAIGINJO to the sparkling HAKKAISAN, AWA CLEAR SPARKLING.

For wine lovers, the extensive list of still wines and champagnes is a pleasant surprise. The selection is varied and includes both well-known labels and unique finds, ensuring there's a perfect bottle for any palate. The bar snacks, such as the Blistered Shishito Peppers and Beef Tartare, are also great for supplementing the main meal.

Ultimately, what's worth choosing at Tokyo Record Bar is the experience itself. The combination of a meticulously prepared tasting menu, an incredible selection of drinks, and the personal touch of a crowd-sourced playlist makes for an evening that is both delicious and genuinely fun. It's a place where you go not just for the food but for the entire atmosphere and the unique opportunity to create a shared soundtrack with other diners.

Tokyo Record Bar

127 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012, USA