Vinyl records aren’t just relics of a bygone era — they are witnessing a comeback. In the United States, vinyl album sales have been on a constant rise, reaching approximately 43.6 million units of sales in 2024. Even in India, we now have curated vinyl listening sessions, and Panaji’s For the Record is already on most of Goa’s itineraries. It was while on a solo trip to the US that restaurateur Saurabh Shetty first discovered the intimate appeal of vinyl listening bars, which have always had a cultural significance in Japan too. Inspired, Shetty returned to Mumbai to recreate his experience and launched Baroke — a vinyl‑listening bar with over 220 titles that will be played while you sip cocktails and enjoy small plates. 

The vinyl bar helmed by a DJ hosts more than 220 titles in its collection. PICS/ASHISH RAJE

For non-collectors, vinyls aren’t just things of the past that you scout for in Chor Bazaar; newer artistes continue to launch vinyl versions of their albums, which means you will spot Michael Jackson, Miles Davis and Harry Styles sitting together in the library behind the DJ who specialises in playing vinyls at Baroke. Shetty paid special attention to offer a vinyl sound experience in the bar by installing Klipsch La Scala II speakers. Inspired by Japanese listening rooms, there is also a section lined with headphones to listen to the music being played, for those who wish to have a more private experience.