Somewhere between the third new listening bar opening and another friend telling me they had just been to “a really cool new hi-fi bar,” it has become clear to me that London is in the middle of a listening bar boom.
A listening bar is a space that combines hi-fidelity audio, often focusing on vinyl, with a bar. Creating a curated listening experience that steps beyond music casually playing in the background at a bar. The act of listening becomes foundational to the experience. To be done well, audio set up is crucial, music is meticulously curated, atmosphere is both lively and comfortable, quiet conversation is possible, and menus are complementary to the experience.
The listening bar concept originated thousands of miles away in Japan, where ‘Jazz Kissa’ or music cafes began popping up as early as the 1920s. At a time where vinyls were much more expensive and less accessible, people would gather and simply listen to music. Talking was discouraged, the rooms were dark, and listening was paramount. While music genres varied, one thing remained the same: Large speakers and larger music collections were key.
The listening bar shifted to a more social endeavour when the first Rock Kissa appeared in the 1970s, alcohol started being served, and quiet talking became acceptable. This has since evolved into the listening bar that we know today.
The concept of the listening bar started spreading in the early 2010s across major cities throughout the world. While the principle remained the same, these welcomed a broader range of music, cocktails, small menus, and a more social vibe than their predecessors in Japan. In more recent years, we have seen what’s been deemed the ‘vinyl revival’ paired with a desire for more analogue social experiences, and a shift away from overwhelmingly loud bars to a place where both music and conversation can coexist.
So why now? The resurgence of listening bars in London highlights a shift in larger social habits that would be glossed over by simply declaring this phenomenon a fleeting trend. Following the pandemic times of the early 2020s, people are craving slower, more meaningful social experiences. With that, there is a push for an alternative to traditional nightlife which often includes bars too loud to hold conversation. In an age dominated by algorithms and AI comes a strong desire for a humanised, curated experience fuelled by intention.
A few key elements of a modern listening bar:
A top tier sound system
An atmosphere that encourages staying for a while (cosy seating)
Music is curated and intentional, it’s not just background music
Space for conversation, the music isn’t too loud
Food and drink menus aren’t an afterthought
Listening bars in London to have on your radar:
Jazu - one of my favourites in London. They’ve really figured out the noise level, loud enough to enjoy and lean in but not too loud to have conversation. Their rotating food residencies are worth keeping your eye on.
Hausu - This is a spot I’d go to for a romantic dinner. Their space is split into a listening bar section and a restaurant, they have a hi-fi system throughout.
Mad Cats - This spot feels effortlessly cool. Small plates, unique cocktails, and curated soul & funk.
Space Talk - An immaculately designed space, this spot is sleek and seductive. The line can be long, but if you go after 10:30pm on the weekends they open up the dance floor.
Equal Parts - A focus on the analogue with a neighbourhood feel. Their equal parts drinks focus on short strong drinks where each ingredient makes up an equal part.
And a few more…
Behind this Wall, Hackney
Kaihō, King’s Cross
Spiritland, King’s Cross
All My Friends, Hackney Wick
A few citations:
Love a listening bar. However, it would be a shame if they get gentrified by people who don't care much for the music and only go because it becomes a trend on tiktok.
"Have you got any Taylor Swift?"
I love the idea of these, hoping we get them near me soon!