Zimagine

Jazz of Japan #194 • Aug 9, 2023 • Brian McCrory

Zimagine jazz club, located near Omote-Sando station in Tokyo, Japan

Located in the fashionable area of Omotesando and Minami-Aoyama, and not too far from Shibuya, Zimagine is a precious gem in the city. Recently relocated and renovated, the stylish space is modeled in the form of an underground exposed-brick cellar with a gentle arc of a dark metal ceiling, a dark underground cathedral to artistic music and performances.

The brick walls are carefully plastered with rough strokes creating slight gaps and cracks here and there for atmospheric wear and tear decorating a brand-new space. With a nice wooden floor, stage, tables, and chairs, the dark room creates a comfortable space for music to flow in a natural setting. The stage features a grand piano as well as a Fender Rhodes electric piano which is brought out on occasion according to the event.

A pay-on-delivery system makes it easy to pick up drinks and snacks at the bar. Freshly-sliced Parmesan cheese or raw ham is wonderful and goes well with a glass of red wine or something from their long list of cocktails. (Note: Certain menu items including the cheese and ham have not been available recently, but hopefully these delicious options will make a comeback in the future.) A few non-alcoholic specialty cocktails are also available, for those who are tired of having the usual ginger ale or tea at bars.

Aside from snacks such as mixed nuts or chocolate, full meals are not offered here, but the bar does allow customers to bring in food and eat at their table (bringing in drinks is not allowed, as guests are customarily expected to buy drinks from the bar). Customers who do bring in their own foods and snacks are asked to take their trash with them when they leave as with similar shops.

Zimagine moved in 2017 and is now located near Omote-Sando station, close to the world-famous Blue Note Tokyo. Before the move, Zimagine was not too far away in a slightly smaller but similar setting near Gaienmae station. Some photos from the previous location can be seen below.

For more information:

• Zimagine’s website
• Located near Omotesando station in Tokyo, Japan

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