Beautiful Music Spots Around the World

Abu Dhabi's nightlife just found its most soulful new address. Saikindō, recently opened inside the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, is a modern homage to Japan's izakaya spirit, an immersive Hi-Fi bar and yakitori grill where signature skewers, crafted cocktails, and curated vinyl come together in perfect synergy. Inspired by the listening bars of Japan, the space is built around a dialogue between sound, spirit, and the philosophy of Omotenashi, the Japanese art of wholehearted hospitality, where guests are welcomed with complimentary snacks and guided by bartenders who anticipate every need. An intimate robata room sits beside the main bar with counter seats facing the grill, while speakers built directly into the interiors carry a warm, clear sound evenly through every room.

Nestled above the legendary Ronnie Scott’s in the heart of Soho, Upstairs at Ronnie's captivates with its thoughtfully renovated space by Archer Humphryes, featuring tiered cabaret seating that draws audiences into an enveloping embrace of sound and performance. Soft orange and yellow tones, upholstered banquettes, and a Yamaha grand piano create an atmosphere of refined warmth, perfectly tuned for vocal jazz, gospel choirs, and global rhythms that resonate with crystalline clarity until the early hours. This gem expands the club's iconic legacy, offering accessible tickets to a dynamic lineup of top-tier artists-from Tomorrow’s Warriors to chamber classical-making it an essential pilgrimage for those seeking London's most vibrant musical intimacy.

On Sunset Boulevard, the Hollywood Palladium channels Los Angeles after dark, a storied Art Deco landmark where neon glow, soaring ceilings, and a vast open floor set the stage for communal, pulse raising nights. Its streamlined curves and vintage marquee nod to the city’s golden age, while the sound and lighting feel unmistakably modern, turning every set into a full bodied spectacle. Come early for the pre show buzz along Hollywood’s sidewalks, then step inside as the room fills with anticipation, confetti, bass, and the kind of crowd energy that makes a concert feel like a cultural event. Whether you are chasing an iconic headliner or a breakout act, this is a classic LA rite, glamorous, loud, and unapologetically alive.

Nestled on Rue Saint-Dominique between the Invalides and Eiffel Tower, Gloria Osteria Paris channels pure Italian flair through its glamorous 70s-inspired interior, complete with zebra carpet that evokes Gianni Versace's opulent world. Indulge in pillowy gnocchi adorned with black or white truffle, perfectly al dente cacio e pepe, and Neapolitan pizzas bursting with fresh ingredients, all paired with inventive cocktails like the Pesto Dry Martini. This Big Mamma gem celebrates culinary classics with generous antipasti, creamy burratina, and decadent desserts such as molten chocolate soufflé, offering an aspirational dining experience where every bite transports you to Italy's sun-kissed shores.

Step inside NBetween and discover a listening bar that transports guests with its immersive blend of Tokyo-inspired design and New York energy. The interiors evoke a modern izakaya, with vinyl-lined walls and a high-fidelity sound system crafting a multisensory atmosphere as curated tracks set a sophisticated mood. Behind the bar, creative cocktails—infused with ingredients like sakura, sencha, plum, and sansho—reflect the artistry and precision of Japanese mixology, harmoniously paired with an innovative selection of whiskeys and sakes. This intimate, design-forward space is a hidden gem perfect for those seeking a refined yet spirited escape in the heart of the city.

Accessed through a discreet entrance on West 56th Street, this 3,000-square-foot subterranean sanctuary reimagines the rebellious allure of 1920s speakeasies with Jean-Michel Gathy's moody, underground-glamour design and over 150 state-of-the-art speakers that make it one of Manhattan's most technologically advanced music venues. At its heart, a 1962 Steinway baby grand piano commands attention from every angle, setting the stage for nightly live performances from 7-10 p.m., followed by DJ sets until 2 a.m. The experience extends beyond music with a globally inspired cocktail menu celebrating Aman's 12 destinations—from Pandan-infused mezcal in the Jiwo to yuzu-kissed vodka in the Dayan—alongside culinary indulgences like truffled grilled cheese and seared A5 Wagyu. This is Midtown Manhattan nightlife elevated to its most refined expression, where the building's Jazz Age heritage meets contemporary sophistication.

Nestled on Manhattan Avenue in Greenpoint, Eavesdrop redefines the cocktail bar experience with its meticulously crafted ambiance, where blonde wood, acoustic panels, and turntables evoke a calming, vaguely Japanese aesthetic that is both modern and timeless. Designed as a sanctuary for audiophiles and conversation lovers alike, every detail—from the thoughtfully curated soundscape to the artistically presented cocktails—celebrates the union of music, design, and hospitality. With a rotating roster of DJs, a stellar natural wine selection, and shareable plates that nod to Japanese izakaya tradition, Eavesdrop invites guests to savor both the sonic and culinary delights of Brooklyn’s creative community. Reservations are coveted, but the warmth of the space and the vibrancy of its crowd ensure every visit feels like a special occasion.

Located in the heart of Brooklyn, Public Records is a gastronomic gem that offers a unique blend of plant-based dining and cultural experiences. The venue boasts a spacious, industrial-chic interior with grand ceilings and a vast skylight, complemented by a sprawling gravel patio that provides a tranquil escape from the city bustle. Chef Daniel Bagnall's creative, vegan menu is a highlight, featuring dishes that are both visually stunning and flavorful. The atmosphere is further enhanced by the venue's role as a music venue, hosting a range of events that make it a must-visit destination for foodies and music enthusiasts alike.