Notes of Viridescence: The Hottest Hi-Fi Bar in SLC

When one ventures into the downtown nightlife of Salt Lake City, there are two requisite elements uncovered in every bar: music and spirits. However, certain bars focus on one (or more) element to alter and enhance a patron’s experience. The Green Room is one such establishment that elevates the sound and environment. “We put sound first,” states James Ramirez, who assumed ownership over The Green Room in September under its new hi-fi theme.

“Hi-fi [bars] have been around for a long time in other cities, Utah’s just always been late to the party.”

Hi-fi bars originated from jazz kissa lounges in Japan after World War II. Because jazz musicians were too expensive to hire, the kissa lounges instead invested in high-end sound systems to play jazz records. “Hi-fi [bars] have been around for a long time in other cities,” says Ramirez. “Utah’s just always been late to the party.” Ramirez visited hi-fi bars in LA, New York, Chicago, Denver and Miami, gaining knowledge and replicating a classic, dimly lit hi-fi aesthetic geared toward smooth listening and even smoother drinks.

“There’s no way to play music in this bar if it’s not on vinyl.”

The Green Room supports an all-analog sound system to produce a warm, classic timbre, installed with the expertise and help of local venue IYKYK HIFI+. “Nothing in the bar is digital — we don’t even have televisions,” says Ramirez. “There’s no way to play music in this bar if it’s not on vinyl.” The sound system consists of tube amps from Poland while running Klipsch Heresy and Cornwall speakers from 1987 that were refinished to match the wood of the interior. The Condesa rotary mixer was handmade in Australia, paired with two Technics 1200 Turntables — redefining the meaning of high-end sound. The impressive vinyl collection lining the wall of The Green Room belongs to Ramirez, who collects vinyl and worked as a DJ for over 20 years.

The great quality of mixed tonality accents The Green Room’s great quality of mixed drinks. Their highballs bear titles after songs, artists and music genres, pairing tastes and tunes while amplifying an already colorful palette. One such libation is named Harmonious Monk after famed pianist and composer Thelonious Monk, and features a Harmony Gin liquor. Another highball, involving mezcal, is titled El Segundo after the song “I Left My Wallet in El Segundo” by A Tribe Called Quest.

“This is a watering hole for music lovers and people who appreciate music on vinyl.”

The Green Room hosts events on music catered to liquor, pairing the two and providing an optimal ambience. “We have Ladies First Thursdays,” says Ramirez. “Everyone is invited, but women bring their own vinyl to play.” This “BYOV” event takes place on the first Thursday of every month with DJs from KUAA operating the helm. “There’s also a night called Straight No Chaser,” explains Ramirez. “It pairs whiskey with jazz, and there’s something really classic about that.”

The Green Room separates itself from the bustling party life of downtown Salt Lake City with its earthy undertones and cozy atmosphere, providing the perfect contrast with a calm experience and ability to navigate conversation without having to strain above the din. “This is a watering hole for music lovers and people who appreciate music on vinyl,” says Ramirez. “I want people to enjoy music and spirits on their own.”

You can find The Green Room at 17 E. 400 S. and follow them on Instagram for their latest news and events at @thegreenroom.bar.

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