Zimagine

Zimagine jazz club, located near Omote-Sando station in Tokyo, Japan (website, map).

Throated Sloth performs at Zimagine in April 2023 with pianist Fumie Chiba, vocalist Aya Kurosawa, Akihiro Yoshimoto on sax, and Kaoru Suzuki on drums.

Located in the fashionable area of Omotesando and Minami-Aoyama 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.