Kissa Kissa — Restaurant in New York

I was excited to visit this new and unique business that incorporates numerous interests of mine: jazz, vinyl LPs played over a hi-fi stereo system, craft cocktails, and Japanese culture. Kissa Kissa did not disappoint!

We made reservations to sit at the bar, sitting at the far end next to the vinyl wall of 4,500 jazz LPs. A stack of hand-selected records for the evening sat next to the turntable. Employees would periodically change the record, and via a tablet, send the album information to a large and colorful vintage typewriter style signboard above the bar displaying the song information, including the release year. On this Saturday night, the music was upbeat and vibrant with selections by Art Blakey and Horace Silver. As I understand it, other evenings showcase different artists and moods.

Josh- our bartender - was a skilled and personable mixologist who guided us through the menu. I loved that the cocktails at Kissa Kissa are jazz-themed. We sampled the Smoke Show (mezcal cocktail), Round Midnight (whiskey cocktail) and on Green Dolphin Street (matcha highball). All were excellent, but I particularly enjoyed the Round Midnight which is a riff on the Black Manhattan that uses Japanese whiskey, Averna, plum liqueur, and walnut bitters.

The ambience and vibe were top notch. Kissa Kissa's U.S. adaptation of the Japanese kissa is more fun and social, with Japanese counterparts being on the small, serious, and erudite side. I think this is the correct spin!

Another reason to visit - no cover charge, and fairly priced food...

Like the average person, I typically only take the time to leave a review when I really truly believe an establishment is deserving (whether positive or negative). Kissa Kissa deserves nothing short of the best review I am capable of writing. After visiting a few different bars to host my birthday party, I settled on Kissa Kissa. They’ve done an incredible job of setting up the bar to create a fun, warm, elegant atmosphere. The ambiance is 10/10 and their cocktails are some of the best in Brooklyn. Everyone from the owner (Danny), to the manager Omer, to the bartenders (special shout-out to Taylor) are INCREDIBLE. They were so thoughtful and helpful during the entire planning process and throughout the night. I cannot thank them enough for being so accommodating, kind, and competent. The entire night went flawlessly. Omer was even sweet enough to print out a list of my own signature drinks. If you’re thinking of visiting this bar for drinks or a fun night out, do not hesitate. Would recommend to anyone!

Side Note: this bar is also a must for any their popcorn or...

We just returned from Japan and were missing the charm of Tokyo’s listening bars — then we discovered Kissa Kissa in Brooklyn, and it instantly transported us back.

Everything about this place feels beautifully considered: the warm lighting, the analog sound, the curated vinyl selection, and the peaceful, intimate vibe. It truly captures the essence of a Japanese kissa — a space for deep listening, quiet conversation, and soulful atmosphere.

It’s clear that the owners have a real appreciation for Japanese culture and aesthetics. The experience felt both nostalgic and refreshing, especially after just being in Japan. This isn’t just a bar — it’s a space that invites you to slow down and savor music in its purest form, and the staffs and sommelier are so knowledgeable and friendly:)

A rare gem in New York. We’ll...