VIBE

Classic Tokyo jazz bar. In a semi-hidden, dimly lit, subterranean space, discerning cocktail drinkers and music fans lounge contentedly on leather and wooden banquettes. The live jazz on Mondays and Wednesdays is a treat, though it’s often outdone by the impressive cocktail mixing activities of the “bar chefs”–this is a place where every drink has its own shape of hand-cut ice cubes, and the flavor combinations (wasabi-infused vodka anyone?) are mind-blowing.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Artsy casual; a funky skirt or dressy jeans and an on-trend top

GO HERE WITH

Jazz fanatics; cocktail connoisseurs; a date

CROWD

Mature, but not without a sense of fun. Cocktail and jazz aficionados bring their closest companions for a chat or a listen, and daters come for the intimate surrounds and mood-setting tunes.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Our fave stop off when we don’t have time to jet to Tokyo for a jazz club evening. The spare surrounds and smooth tunes are perfect complements for the out-of-this-world cocktails (our go-to is the Groovy). Great spot for a leisurely, laidback date showcasing your off-the-beaten-path savvy.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

There’s limited cell phone reception down here. (If you’re meeting up with people, be sure that everyone has the address.)

GOOD TO KNOW

There’s live jazz on Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:00pm to 11:00pm. Sister bar Angel’s Share in the East Village is another favorite of ours.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Angel’s Share, East Village (New York)

CLOSEST COMPS

Angel’s Share (New York); Jazz-Ya (Beijing)

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