Inside Hermosa Beach’s New Hi Fi Listening Bar, Kasai Records

If you’ve been wondering what’s taking over the former Decadence space in Hermosa Beach, the wait is finally over. Kasai Records has officially opened its doors, introducing a completely new kind of nightlife experience to the South Bay, one where incredible music takes center stage alongside thoughtfully crafted food and drinks.

Inspired by the listening bars of Tokyo and Mexico City, Kasai Records isn’t your typical restaurant or cocktail bar. It’s a destination built for music lovers, food enthusiasts, and anyone looking to slow down and enjoy a night that feels intentionally different. Every detail of the space has been designed to make music the main event while still delivering an unforgettable dining experience.

A Room Built Around the Music

From the moment you step inside, it’s clear this isn’t just another bar with a playlist in the background.

The former Decadence location has been completely reimagined into a dedicated hi-fi listening room where acoustics were prioritized from the very beginning. Custom acoustic wall panels, handcrafted speakers imported from England, and a custom-built DJ booth all work together to create an immersive sound experience that feels unlike anything else in the South Bay.

Instead of relying on streaming playlists, Kasai features an ever-changing rotation of vinyl selectors spinning records live throughout the evening. Music comes from vinyl records, cassettes, CDs, and digital decks, meaning every visit offers something new. Some nights are lively and energetic, while others focus on deep listening sessions where guests settle in and truly appreciate an album from start to finish.

Japanese Yakitori Takes Center Stage

The music may be the reason you walk through the door, but the food gives you another reason to stay.

Chef Hoon Lee, formerly of Redbird in Los Angeles, has created a menu centered around a traditional Japanese yakitori grill fueled by premium binchōtan charcoal. The incredibly hot, clean-burning charcoal creates beautifully caramelized skewers packed with smoky flavor, while the rest of the menu is thoughtfully designed for sharing throughout the evening.

Rather than rushing through courses, dishes arrive fresh off the grill as they’re ready, encouraging guests to relax, order another drink, and enjoy the night at its own pace. It’s dining that naturally flows with the rhythm of the music.

A Fresh Addition to Hermosa Beach

The South Bay has no shortage of great restaurants and beach bars, but Kasai Records introduces something entirely new.

By blending high-fidelity listening culture with exceptional food and hospitality, it creates an experience that’s less about rushing through the night and more about enjoying every moment. Whether you’re a longtime vinyl collector or someone simply looking for a memorable dinner spot, Kasai offers a fresh reason to spend an evening in Hermosa Beach.