Inside Bar Selecta, the 10-Seat Listening Bar Where Sake Meets Soul
Hawthorn’s newest bar pairs rare records with refined cocktails and a sake list worth exploring, crafted by some of Melbourne’s most respected names in hospitality.
Summary
- Bar Selecta is a 10-seat Japanese-inspired listening bar in Hawthorn, created by six Melbourne hospitality veterans, blending curated vinyl, mid-century design and intimate energy
- The venue pairs vintage jazz, funk and pop records with playful cocktails and premium sake, offering a moody lounge, laneway terrace and upcoming BYO vinyl sessions
Melbourne’s Bar Selecta doesn’t shout, it hums. Located on Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn, this 10-seat listening bar is the work of six hospitality veterans: Joey Tai (ex–Flower Drum), Masaki Hisaike (sake sommelier), Kelvin Low (The Elysian), Adam Ong (Golden Monkey), and Michael and Eleena Tan (Brand Works).
The concept pays homage to Japan’s intimate vinyl bars, where the music takes centre stage. Expect 1950s jazz records, obscure Japanese funk and throwbacks from Lana Del Rey to De La Soul, played through vintage JBLs in a space framed by red onyx, orange glass bricks and mid-century modern minimalism.
Behind the red onyx marble bar, drinks riff off the vinyl energy. Try the Sailor Moon Gimlet, a neon mix of Japanese gin, cherry blossom cordial, and Midori, or sip premium saké out of a wine glass, guided by mood and flavour rather than pretence.
The venue also features a 25-person lounge and laneway terrace, with Sunday BYO vinyl sessions and yakitori on the horizon. The vibe is summed up by the team’s quiet mantra: “Softly spoken. Deeply felt.”
For those chasing thoughtful cocktails, rare sake and warm frequencies, Bar Selecta hits the right note.
Bar Selecta
Rear entry, 717 Glenferrie Rd
Hawthorn VIC 3122
DISCLAIMER: We discourage irresponsible and/or underage drinking. Drink responsibly and legally.
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