A Second-Floor Japanese Speakeasy for Shochu and Weekend Jazz

BAR ao hides on the second floor of a building on East 49th Street, the kind of Midtown East room you have to know about to find. Inside it plays as a Japanese speakeasy, quiet, low-lit, and built around the drinks.

The list leans into Japanese shochu with plans to fold in blended whiskies down the line, and original sake cocktails give you a reason to try something outside the usual order. The kitchen sends out Japanese bar food to keep the drinking honest. On weekends live jazz turns the room from a quiet nightcap into a proper night out.

At 4.7 stars across 29 reviews, the bartenders anchor the relaxed feel and the small size keeps it personal. Climb the stairs early on a jazz night, grab a seat near the music, and let the bar walk you through the shochu list one pour at a time.