Tokyo Record Bar

In a city filled with countless dining options, finding a restaurant that offers a truly unique and memorable experience is a special treat. Tokyo Record Bar, a hidden gem nestled in a cozy basement on MacDougal Street, is not just a place to eat; it's an immersive, multi-sensory journey that combines a creative tasting menu with a communal, vinyl-curated soundtrack. Described by a loyal customer as a "hidden gem" and a "fantastic discovery," this spot offers an intimate izakaya-style omakase experience where the food and the music are perfectly in sync. It's a place where you can "just sit back and enjoy the phenomenal flavors in an intimate setting," as the fixed menu takes all the guesswork out of the evening. The concept is playful and interactive, with diners contributing to the night's playlist by selecting songs from the bar's extensive vinyl collection, making each visit a one-of-a-kind event.

The culinary creativity at Tokyo Record Bar is as much a star as the music. The dishes are described as "very good and creative," featuring fresh ingredients and innovative combinations. One diner's favorite was a crudo dish with "jalapeño sorbet and cashew cream," a testament to the kitchen's experimental yet delicious approach. Beyond the food, the bar boasts an impressive selection of cocktails, sake, and wine, ensuring every palate is catered to. As a women-owned business, Tokyo Record Bar has successfully created a trendy and cozy atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists looking for a dining experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming. It's an unforgettable destination that has earned its place among the "top 10 restaurants and experiences to try" in New York City.

Tokyo Record Bar is located at 127 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012, USA. Situated in the vibrant and historical Greenwich Village, the restaurant is a short walk from Washington Square Park and the bustling energy of downtown Manhattan. The area is a hub of culture and nightlife, easily accessible via several subway lines and bus routes. Its location makes it a perfect destination for a night out in the city.

As a basement venue, the restaurant's accessibility may be limited for some patrons. However, its trendy and cozy atmosphere is part of its charm. For planning purposes, it's important to note that the primary dining experience takes place in this intimate underground space.

Tokyo Record Bar offers a distinct and specialized set of services designed to provide a cohesive dining and entertainment experience.

• Dine-in: This is the core service, offering a full, fixed-menu dining experience in an intimate setting.
• Table Service: Guests are seated and served at their tables, with attentive staff guiding them through the tasting menu and beverage options.
• Dinner & Dessert: The restaurant focuses on providing a complete dinner experience, from a multi-course tasting menu to a thoughtful dessert.
• Reservations Required: Due to the intimate size and the unique dining format, reservations are required to secure a spot for the main tasting menu experience. Dinner reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

Tokyo Record Bar's appeal comes from its unique features that blend Japanese cuisine with an unparalleled social atmosphere.

• Great Cocktails & Beverage Program: The bar highlights its excellent cocktail list, which features a variety of creative and strong drinks. In addition to cocktails, the beverage menu is extensive, with a curated selection of sake, beer, and a deep list of still wine and champagne bottles.
• Fixed Tasting Menu: The izakaya-style, seven-course tasting menu provides a phenomenal culinary journey, allowing guests to savor a variety of dishes prepared with fresh, creative ingredients without having to make a choice.
• Vinyl Soundtrack: A unique and major highlight is the interactive music experience. Diners can contribute to the evening's soundtrack by picking songs from the restaurant's extensive vinyl collection, which a DJ then curates into a playlist for the night.
• Intimate & Trendy Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, making it an ideal spot for a date night or a special occasion with a small group.
• Late-Night Food: In addition to the main dining experience, the venue often offers late-night food options, catering to the lively New York City crowd.
• Women-Owned Business: The restaurant identifies as women-owned, contributing to the diverse and dynamic culinary scene of the city.

For reservations and inquiries, you can find Tokyo Record Bar at the following location.

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

The single most worthwhile choice at Tokyo Record Bar is to fully immerse yourself in the complete fixed tasting menu experience. The value and creativity of the seven-course meal are a central part of the restaurant’s appeal. This allows you to "sit back and enjoy" a series of delicious and surprising dishes, such as the praised crudo with jalapeño sorbet and cashew cream, which demonstrate the kitchen's innovative approach. The communal aspect of the experience, where diners help curate the night's vinyl playlist, is what elevates the meal from simply good food to an unforgettable night out.

While the cocktails are a highlight, a review suggests that for a perfect pairing with the food, the sake by the glass or bottle might be a better choice. The restaurant offers a fantastic selection of sake, including options like the Kidoizumi Shuzo and Brooklyn Kura, which are specifically chosen to complement the Japanese-inspired dishes. For those looking to celebrate, the extensive list of still wines and champagnes, from Gamet to Dom Perignon, offers a wide range of choices to suit any budget or preference. Finally, don't miss the Bar Snacks menu, which offers delicious bites like Blistered Shishito Peppers and Beef Tartare, perfect for those who want to experience the ambiance without committing to the full tasting menu. Tokyo Record Bar is an escape from the ordinary, and its unique blend of culinary art and auditory pleasure is what makes it a must-try for any New Yorker seeking a truly exceptional evening.

Tokyo Record Bar

127 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012, USA