yakuni
New York
Yakuni is an intimate, underground Japanese vinyl listening bar and speakeasy hidden behind an alleyway or dry cleaner entrance in Midtown East. With seating for only 18 guests, the moody, candlelit space is renowned for spinning jazz, lo-fi, and hip-hop records on vintage turntables. The drink menu features rare sake flights, beer, wine, and craft cocktails made with fresh fruit, matcha, or shochu, paired with Japanese snacks.
Commenters are largely intrigued by Yakuni's aesthetic and low-key atmosphere, drawing favorable comparisons to other intimate jazz spots like Tomi Jazz. However, many express frustration over social media exposure, warning that sharing an 18-seat hideaway will lead to overcrowding and ruin its secluded charm. Others debated speakeasy gimmicks and clarified that the venue is located in Midtown East rather than the Upper East Side.
- Plan to visit solo or with a date, as the 18-seat capacity makes it unsuitable for large groups.
- Look for the hidden entrance tucked through an alleyway corridor in Midtown East.
- Try the matcha-based craft cocktails, fresh fruit drinks, or curated sake flights.
- Expect music centered around jazz, lo-fi, and jazzy hip-hop played entirely on vinyl.
Summaries are created based on reviews, notes, and social media posts.
Photos