Shibuya HiFi - Seattle, Washington

Jackson G.

I’ve been twice now, most recently having attended a listening session for Daft Punk’s Random Access Memories (one of my favorite albums). This is a really cool spot that with just a few changes and improvements, I think could really be something special.

You need to make a reservation for any of the listening sessions they’re hosting. Selection of different album sessions is pretty goood, and they also have themed nights for certain artists and genres. Drinks are solid with a bit limited of a menu, but my main gripe is that you can’t bring drinks into the HiFi room (where the listening sessions happen). You also have to take your shoes off when entering (not a big deal), but it’s a bit annoying that you can’t bring drinks in. I understand the risk of drinks spilling, but coasters seem like an easy solution to this. Especially when listening to a longer album, you want to enjoy your drink and not have to step out to have it.

The interior design is beautiful, both for the main lounge and the HiFi room. However, some of the furniture in the HiFi room is not comfy at all. If you’re not early into the que to get in, you kinda get screwed by having last pick of where you sit. Don’t sit on the colored stools or high chairs in the back. They are not comfy, and it feels like you’re sitting outside of the main circle at a party, if that makes any sense.

Don’t let the 1 star reviews fool you though, this place has changed a lot since those reviews were made. It’s clear a lot of improvements have been made, and it’s evident that this a passion project of the owners. I definitely recommend making a reservation and checking it out for an album you really like. With a little more work, this place would be a premiere vinyl bar for Seattle.

Layne H.

Shibuya HiFi is an absolute gem, and I highly recommend everyone check it out. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with an effortlessly cool yet welcoming atmosphere, perfect for socializing over drinks. The interior design is simply stunning—elegant, modern, and thoughtfully curated with art and records.

What really sets Shibuya HiFi apart, though, is the HiFi room. This is where the magic happens. Guests are invited to get comfortable on stylish custom furniture and fully immerse themselves in the experience of listening to albums played on high-end vintage speakers. The sound quality is incredible—warm, rich—and it makes for a magical experience with friends that sets this place apart from others. The blend of great ambiance, top-tier sound, and impeccable attention to detail makes it a must-visit spot in Ballard.

Jen K. R.

I came here with my dinnerclub to listen to Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring and it was magical. I loved how it was set up with insight into the history of the score and what happened when it first debuted, paired with a thoughtful description about the specialness of the space. It's an immersive experience that left me feeling more connected to the powerful impact of music. It's a space to be in community around a common adoration of a musician or album, or music in general. We need more places like this in Seattle.

Scott T.

This place is the coolest. I went the last two nights in a row and intend on being a regular here.

The sound in the listening room is incredible and the atmosphere is right. I saw another reviewer mention the lighting being too bright. This is a requirement by the fire department because of the soundproofing curtains that were installed over the entrance/exit.

Easy fix, bring sunglasses. Automatic light adjustment, and you look like a real cool cat just vibing out to the tunes.

As far as time goes, this is a listening party.. show up at the scheduled time or a little beforehand and enjoy an awesome cocktail while everyone in the party trickles in. The main event isn't going to start immediately, this is an experience, you're not catching the bus downtown.

This place is church for the real heads out there.

Rae J.

Was invited out for a listening party.
I've never been to one so I thought I'd try it out.

I was disappointed with the outcome.
I paid $25 just to sit down in a room to listen to an old BIGGIE album.

Also, you can't wear shoes and you can't drink or eat in the listening room.

I found that really odd.

The furniture was comfy tho.

You'd think the room would be sound proof also, but you can hear noises from the main room, between the changing of the the vinyl.

The main room was coo though. Good vibes, chill music and plenty of room. Don't have to pay to be in the main room.

I only had the house tequila and a single was $14.

Service is awesome.

Chip C.

What an incredible experience! There's nothing like it in Seattle, and you absolutely have to go. The listening room is the main event, but don't overlook the lounge. It's a stunning place to hang out with friends, sipping artfully made cocktails. No TVs, dim lighting, perfect analog music, bespoke furniture, and incredibly friendly staff with no cover? Yes, please!

The listening room itself is mind-blowing, and not just because of the music. The art and furniture complement the incredible sound system wonderfully, enhancing the entire experience. If you're looking for something new to do, love music, and appreciate great ambiance, you have to check out Shibuya HiFi.

Daniel C.

I really enjoy the space aesthetically, but even if there is a lot of intention with the different pieces of audio equipment, if the actual audio isn’t impressive, what am I paying for?

I almost wish that they had implemented some sort of audio experience similar to that of movie theaters, with surround sound and better bass. Given that I paid $23 per ticket, I don’t think that having lush audio is too much to ask for. I really enjoyed that there was a lot of intention and history in the actual listening room, but I wish they went a step further to dim the overhead house lights to accentuate the opera chandeliers that were sourced, and that there was soundproofing of some sort to better the audio experience.

The people involved in the experience made coming here at least a little worth it this first time, but I don’t see myself coming back here unless the audio experience improves.

Justin H.

Beautifully done music listening room with an OK bar. Could be so much better! Still worth a visit and I will be going back.

The bar itself is nothing special. It LOOKS amazing, but the drinks are quite expensive and the 2 times I've been, they were not made very well. I've seen other reviews call this out so I think it's a running issue.

The bar space is lovely, and decorated so well. It's a shame the drinks aren't more of a focus as this could be an amazing spot with the music they play.

The listening experience was so amazing. I wasn't sure what to expect. As someone who loves music, this gave me goosebumps most of the time. Super clear and balanced audio and the room itself is very cozy. Will definitely be back to try different albums out.

Overall, great experience and worth the money. If the owners read this, please consider tweaking the drinks a bit! I love this type of concept and want this bar/lounge to be amazing.