SOULBAR WHAT'S UP?
Roppongi, Tokyo
Tucked down a narrow side street in Roppongi (六本木), SOULBAR WHAT'S UP? feels like a well-kept secret for anyone who comes to Tokyo (東京) looking for genuine, late-night soul and vinyl culture rather than the district's glitzy clubs; the room is small and warmly lit, lined with record sleeves and a modest turntable setup, so the music sits close to your ears and the conversation never has to be shouted over a PA. Locals and curious visitors crowd the bar stools and low tables, drawn by a proprietor and rotating DJs who treat sets like storytelling—deep cuts, rare 45s and timeless grooves stitched together with a respectful appreciation for analog sound. The vibe is intimate and slightly retro: you might find long-time regulars swapping recommendations with newcomers, a mellow after-dinner crowd lingering into the early hours, and the occasional live session that keeps everything feeling spontaneous. If you want to experience Roppongi's nightlife from the inside out—where the focus is on listening, discovery, and genuine hospitality—this cozy soul kissa is a rewarding stop.
Tucked down a narrow side street in Roppongi (六本木), SOULBAR WHAT'S UP? feels like a well-kept secret for anyone who comes to Tokyo (東京) looking for genuine, late-night soul and vinyl culture rather than the district's glitzy clubs; the room is small and warmly lit, lined with record sleeves and a modest turntable setup, so the music sits close to your ears and the conversation never has to be shouted over a PA. Locals and curious visitors crowd the bar stools and low tables, drawn by a proprietor and rotating DJs who treat sets like storytelling—deep cuts, rare 45s and timeless grooves stitched together with a respectful appreciation for analog sound. The vibe is intimate and slightly retro: you might find long-time regulars swapping recommendations with newcomers, a mellow after-dinner crowd lingering into the early hours, and the occasional live session that keeps everything feeling spontaneous. If you want to experience Roppongi's nightlife from the inside out—where the focus is on listening, discovery, and genuine hospitality—this cozy soul kissa is a rewarding stop.