On Barcelona’s recently beautified Avinguda Diagonal, a new kind of café experience has arrived, one that has already piqued the curiosity of both locals and visitors. Jaç Hi-Fi Café, designed by Isern Serra Studio for owners Ligia and Arnau, is where specialty coffee meets Japanese listening bar culture. Open since July 2025, the space borrows its name from jazz itself, the Japanese jazz kissa tradition, and the Catalan word jaç: to recline, rest, and let go.
The kissa, born in postwar Japan, were places where recorded music took precedence over chatter. Dimly lit, lined with wood, and arranged around high-fidelity speakers, these venues became sanctuaries for deep listening. Jaç Hi-Fi Café channels that spirit into a Mediterranean context, creating a setting where design and sound share equal billing.
Covering 95 square metres, the café unfolds in a series of atmospheres. A concrete-based sofa with custom cushions forms the entry lounge, accompanied by walnut tables and an Akari E lamp from Isamu Noguchi; artwork by Chidy Wayne adds a playful sense of discord to the otherwise austere aesthetics.
In the heart of the space, a stainless-steel communal table by Serra serves as a focal point, illuminated by Antoni Arola’s Lámina pendant for Santa & Cole. To one side, a monolithic walnut bar produced by Fusteria Vidal doubles as both counter and speaker cabinet, integrating vinyl shelves, baked goods, and bespoke speakers by Bloom Island. A harmonious blend of furniture and music, this space is inspired by, and nods to the kissa tradition at every turn.
Towards the rear, a sweeping walnut installation curves across walls and ceiling to form a semi-enclosed listening alcove. Divided by a cylindrical vinyl-lined column and flanked by stainless-steel speakers, it creates a cocoon for immersive sound. Custom cushions, low walnut tables, and a disco wall lamp by Jordi Miralbell and Mariona Reventós complete the space.
The iroko-clad façade hints at what’s inside, with four circular indents on the main door referencing speaker cones. From the street, glimpses of the walnut sculpture and a glowing disco lamp draw the eye of those passing by.
Finished in warm beige microcement with walnut, stainless steel, and carefully chosen lighting, this is a neighbourhood spot that manages to feel both intimate and contemporary. Bringing listening-bar culture to the Catalan capital, Jaç Hi-Fi cafe is a place to sip coffee, discover music, and experience a Barcelona take on a Japanese classic.
Jaç Hi-Fi Café Barcelona Photography, Salva Lopez.
