Forget digital playlists and remixes, it’s the era for nostalgia and disco – with many cafes putting the needle on the record for a good (and groovy) time. Enter, vinyl listening cafes. There’s no question that two things that Malaysians do well are coffee and music, and when mixing it together, it’s truly something special.
The concept has long existed, starting in Japan in the ‘50s. It’s a chance to play tunes, discover new artists, and connect with music lovers alike. From the low-fi mood at the intimate Listen HiFi to V88 Cafe & Bar in Starhill, here are five vinyl spots where you can immerse yourself in the multi-sensory experience.
Eternyl Vinyl Cafe
With a collection of over 900 records, Eternyl Vinyl Cafe prides itself on being the first vinyl listening cafe dedicated to audiophiles in Malaysia. Located in Subang Jaya, as well as above a shoplot in Sea Park, PJ, this record spot offers a massive variety of vinyl, such as Elvis Presley, Elton John, Taylor Swift, Drake, Daft Punk, Laufey, and even film soundtracks, offering something for everyone.
Address: Sea Park, Petaling Jaya & SS18, Subang Jaya
Listen HiFi
Tucked away in Chow Kit, Listen HiFi might be small in size, but it’s certainly big on sound. This spot showcases a cosy, intimate, and minimalist interior. It spins a mix of records across a wide range of genres like hip-hop, soul, indie, pop, and many more until all hours. Do make a booking at least a day in advance as they have limited seats and record players.
Address: Level 3, 2, Jalan Kamunting, Chow Kit, 50300 Kuala Lumpur
Vintage Kissa Audio Cafe
Enter Vintage Kissa Audio Cafe, a warm spot that feels like you’ve stepped back into the ‘80s. Run by a husband-and-wife duo, this cafe is a treasure trove of vintage audio equipment. Picture old records, hi-fi players, and cassette tapes as classic jazz music emanates from the speakers. Sip a cuppa and indulge in a playlist that swings from The Platters to Shelby Lynne, and Rolling Stones to ABBA.
Address: 18-2, Jalan PJU 5/9, Dataran Sunway, Kota Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
V88 Cafe & Bar Starhill
Inspired from the jazz-kissa tradition that flourished in post-war Japan, V88 Cafe & Bar Starhill is an all-day restaurant, cafe, and listening bar built around an outstanding vintage sound system and quality tracks located right in the middle of Bukit Bintang. Treat this space as an escape from the hustling and bustling of downtown KL.
Address: L112-1, Level 1, The Starhill, 181, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Monk (Modern Jazz Corner)
Monk is Subang Jaya’s newest Tokyo-style vinyl listening cafe. Named after jazz legend Thelonious Monk, this cafe offers a curated selection of jazz records, crafted coffees, and desserts that rotate regularly. The bespoke sound system, homey interior, vintage art deco, and intimate seating brings the space together.
Address: 41C, Jalan SS 15/4, Ss 15, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor
