Opening this weekend: a Japanese-inspired Hifi cocktail lounge

Over the past two years, there has been a surge in the United States of Japanese-style “listening bars,” a lounge where audiophiles can enjoy a drink while intentionally listening and enjoying music, often drawn discs. The first KC will open on the West Side this weekend. XO (709 West 17th Street) combines the essence of post-war Japanese musical culture with premium food and drinks.

“In the ’60s, the Japanese were very isolationist,” says Mitchell Foster, one of the owners of XO. “The only media and culture they imported at the time were records. Since the equipment needed to play this media was so expensive, these public spaces opened up and the bar would have a stereo system to play these records. These listening bars were where people could come in and listen to music from all over the world.

Music played at the KC listening bar will benefit from a new amplifier manufactured by EM/IA; the amp will be presented for the first time at XO.

“It uses old technology and equipment made in the 1940s,” says Foster. “We are the first to receive a functional version. Eventually, it will be available for sale.

Foster owns the bar alongside William Minter, Jordan Hubner and Noah Manos (Manos owns the building). The Town Co.’s James Beard-nominated chef Johnny Leach, himself a record collector, helped develop the Japanese-inspired culinary menu featuring pork katsu and nori egg salad sandwiches, a rotating selection of rice bowls and chocolate mochi cookies.

Beyond a few whiskeys, the drinks menu is far from being as Japanese-inspired. You’ll find classic cocktails on the menu, as well as natural wines and a few zero proof options.

The 35-seat bar will play music strictly from its vinyl collection. He will focus on jazz, like Miles Davis and Bill Evans, but also with groups like Steely Dan, Fleetwood Mac, Erykah Badu, Outkast and many others. While audiophile venues generally favor listening over conversation, Foster says he encourages patrons to strike up a conversation with the bartender about any musical artist. Even though the bar won’t be able to accommodate every request, there’s always a chance they have what you’re looking for on vinyl.

Eventually, XO will open its patio to add 25 additional seats.

XO’s opening hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 4 p.m. to midnight. Happy hour runs from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. and includes discounts on cocktails and food. Reservations are not available.

Related