Drawing inspiration from the rich tradition of Japan’s listening bars, this week, Merivale is set to open the doors to its latest Sydney venue: JAM Record Bar.
Named after CEO Justin Hemmes’ parents, hospitality pioneers John & Merivale Hemmes, this “little but loud” corner of the increasingly crowded Ivy Precinct promises to soundtrack your evenings with its enviable collection of 15,000 vinyl records; curated by Merivale Head of Music & Entertainment Nick van Tiel. 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM, seven days a week.
Of course, the Japanese inspiration goes beyond the concept and interior design alone — 100% pink plywood, cork, and Pink Batt insulation to emulate the surround sound feeling of “sitting inside a giant speaker box,” for those of you wondering. The menu has also taken notes from the much-imitated culture.
RELATED: Starward Whisky’s Port Melbourne Distillery Just Got A Major Glow-Up
In terms of food, you can expect all manners of delectable sandos, skewers, and even Filet-o-Fish spring rolls seasoned with ingredients from furikake to yuzu; while the drinks list features the likes of Highballs, Old-Fashioneds, and Margaritas, accompanied by the requisite sake and wine spectrum (domestic and international, every possible colour/carbonation). All the key ingredients for a cracking night in Sydney’s CBD, if you ask me.
JAM Record Bar officially makes its mark at 320 George Street, Sydney this coming Friday (April 19th, 2024). And next week, Merivale’s hospitality empire will expand with yet another venue, this one dubbed Good Luck — an ambitious 200-seat restaurant serving multi-cuisine delights hidden away in the basement of Bridge Street’s Burns Philp Building.
