New Japanese-Style Listening Bar Harlan Records Opens in Former Bar Fluxus Space Downtown | Eater SF

"Opened on September 23, this bar aims to deliver a Haruki Murakami–style experience of nursing a glass of whiskey while listening to The Beach Boys' Pet Sounds on repeat, with a concept that emphasizes the social intimacy of that kind of environment. Inside the former Bar Fluxus space, records line the walls — almost 2,000 vinyl spanning John Lee Hooker, Albert King, Taj Mahal, Charlie Parker, Sharon Jones, Lee Fields, and Khruangbin — and the sound rig includes a Thorens TD124, McIntosh 2210 amplifier, AdCom amplifier, NAD 1020 preamplifier, Sony SA-7300s, and a pair of JBL L100s. The owners added seating and tables where a stage once stood, though live performances remain on the calendar (the stage can host a three-piece band), and programming is intended to be eclectic and grounded, highlighting artists not getting radio play as well as local acts, hosting record releases, Red Curtain shows, and collector nights. The aesthetic is inspired by Japanese listening bars and features refurbished 1940s–'50s radios from owner Eric Passetti’s grandfather; the drinks menu focuses on music-inspired cocktails alongside classics like negronis and dirty martinis, and the bar currently holds a drinks-only license with plans for snacks and delivery drop-offs from partners like High Horse and other Union Square and Chinatown food outposts. So far guests have embraced the vibe — phones stay down and conversations happen — and the owners imagine mini-festivals in the alley and other events to bring locals and artists together." - Paolo Bicchieri