CENTRAL RECORDS Hi-Fi Cafe

4.6 ( 123 reviews )
Checking... 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM See Hours
$10–20
824 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
+1 602-688-4885

CENTRAL RECORDS Hi-Fi Cafe is a hidden gem located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona, where music, food, and community come together seamlessly. Customers rave about the unique experience that combines a vinyl record shop with a vibrant café atmosphere. Whether you're enjoying a glass of natural wine or a delicious plate assembled by their talented chef, the ambiance is warm and inviting. Jim Darrell highlights the thrill of discovering vinyl while soaking in the lively surroundings created by live DJ sets that fill the air with eclectic tunes.

Carlee Bird and G M appreciate the friendly service and the chance to unwind with a glass of wine after a day of exploration. It's this kind of atmosphere that fosters connections among patrons, making it easy to meet new friends at the bar. Moreover, the venue offers diverse options like coffee and non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring there's something for everyone.

The café also embraces the digital age with QR codes on vinyl, allowing guests to listen before they buy. Bianca Fantastic reflects on the chic yet laid-back environment, perfect for solo visits or casual hangouts with friends. With lively DJ features and themed specials, CENTRAL RECORDS Hi-Fi Cafe is quickly becoming a must-visit spot for both music lovers and foodies alike.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • From the business
    • Identifies as disability-owned
    • Identifies as veteran-owned
  • Service options
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
  • Highlights
    • Has fast service
    • Has great beer selection
    • Serves great coffee
    • Has great wine list
    • Has live music
    • Has live performances
  • Popular for
    • Popular for breakfast
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves cocktails
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves late-night food
    • Quick bite
    • Serves small plates
    • Serves spirits
    • Serves vegan dishes
    • Serves vegetarian dishes
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Serves breakfast
    • Serves brunch
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has bar on site
    • Has gender-neutral toilets
    • Has toilet
    • Has Wi-Fi
    • Free Wi-Fi
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Good for groups
    • LGBTQ+ friendly
    • Transgender safe space
  • Planning
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Credit cards
  • Parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Paid street parking
  • Pets
    • Dogs allowed outside

Reviews For CENTRAL RECORDS Hi-Fi Cafe

Jim Darrell
Jun 7,2025
I stumbled upon this place by accident on my way back to my hotel the other night. I didn't eat or drink anything, but I got some great vinyl. I think it's a great concept having records for sale in a cool place to hang. They also have a studio with a live DJ spinning most of the time. They also stream all of their sets online so you don't even have to go there to enjoy the music. A great little shop that I truly enjoyed digging in. I look forward to dropping in again the next time I'm in town!
Carlee Bird
May 31,2025
stopped in after a full day of exploring to have a glass of wine before I called it a night. immediately made a friend at the bar and we shared some tasty orange wine. i was close to talking myself into just going home, but super glad I decided against it. the staff was great and checked to see how we were doing often. my friend ordered some food that looked delicious, but I didn’t have any.
G M
Apr 15,2025
Plenty of paid and free street parking available, card-only. This is easily one of the dopest spots in downtown Phoenix, boasting the ability to quench your thirst, satisfy your stomach, and tickle your ear drums...all at the same time. You can nab one of their natural wines (by the glass or bottle) or grab a delicious beer (lots of local options!) while Dana artistically assembles a delicious plate for you and you peruse the fantastic selection of vinyl they have. On top of all that, they brew delcious coffee and have an assortment of non-alcohokic options! Not sure what you're shopping for when it comes to the vinyl? Use the handy-dandy QR code on each album to be taken directly to the digital album so you can give it a listen. Furthermore, they offer up art and music magazines and books, both for purchase or browsing. Check out their weekly wine/media/dinner specials and swing by at night for their ever-rotating DJ sets. HIGHLY recommended!
Suman M Subramanian
Apr 7,2025
Stopped in for the first time last night since we were in the area. Cool little place, with friendly service and good music at a pleasant volume (loud enough to appreciate while still allowing us to carry on a normal conversation). Dim mood lighting but still bright enough to read the menus and see that the place was clean. I like that they had a non-alcoholic beer option (Buckler). Very non-pretentious place, which is refreshing.
Bianca Fantastic
Apr 2,2025
Central Records offers a chic and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. The Espresso Flip was delightful, complemented by the friendly and attentive service. Whether you're flying solo or hanging out with friends, this spot is ideal. The music is at a comfortable volume, making it easy to enjoy a good book or conversation. I visited before the DJ started, but I appreciate that they feature one during select hours.
Jacob Frantz
Mar 27,2025
Back in time, vinyl was King. This shop has eclectic records, collectors and if you only have 1 you can buy from the 1 bin This is also a host to another great business Skoden coffee 1st nations women owned with super good quality coffee drinks and home made Navajo pastries
Jason Kelly
Mar 26,2025
Always good conversation with people. The food is good. It's kinda confusing, though, cause, sometimes it turns into like a coffee shop only, so you gotta check the dates that it's actually a bar serving food.
Darren Fiore
Mar 14,2025
Central Records in downtown Phoenix is a hidden gem that we’re thrilled to have discovered while wandering around late at night. From the moment we stepped in, the dark, moody atmosphere set the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening. The drinks were delightfully affordable, allowing us to indulge without breaking the bank. Between the two of us, we enjoyed three vodka sodas and three dirty gin martinis—the martinis being the best I've ever tasted! Zack took really good care of us! The service was exceptional, with staff attentive and friendly throughout our visit. The bathroom was remarkably clean, a detail that often goes unnoticed but greatly appreciated. What truly added to the experience was the crowd; everyone was laid-back and engaging, making for enjoyable conversations. Central Records has definitely earned a spot in our regular rotation of go-to places for a great night out. If you’re in Phoenix and looking for a place with quality drinks and a chill vibe, this is it!

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