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CENTRAL RECORDS Hi-Fi Cafe

4.6 123 reviews 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM 824 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

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CENTRAL RECORDS is a cafe located on North Central Avenue in Phoenix, offering a blend of refined yet approachable dining options. The menu features a diverse range of dishes, including smoked mussels, a greens and mushroom sando, and an anchovy buttered baguette, complemented by unique beverages like Club Mate and Diné Tea. The venue emphasizes natural wines by the glass, featuring selections such as a Castilla Spanish Red and a Barthez Bordeaux Blanc. A curated beer and cider list includes local and international choices ranging from Valley Beer to Chimay Grand Reserve. Cocktail offerings showcase crafted drinks like the Bevanda Di Palermo Aperitivo and the Espresso Flip, combining classic and innovative elements. The atmosphere reflects a thoughtful balance between casual cafe comfort and a sophisticated drinking experience, making it a distinct spot in the local dining scene. CENTRAL RECORDS integrates creative food pairings with a focused beverage program, providing a setting that appeals to those interested in well-composed meals and artisanal drinks.

Photos

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Amenities & More

Service options

  • Onsite services
  • Dine-in
  • Delivery

Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great beer selection
  • Great wine list

Dining options

  • Seating
  • Table service

Amenities

  • Wi-Fi
  • Restroom

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Trendy

Crowd

  • Groups
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Transgender safespace
Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with CENTRAL RECORDS Hi-Fi Cafe before visiting.

Reviews for CENTRAL RECORDS Hi-Fi Cafe

4.6
123 reviews
5
100%
4
10%
3
6%
2
2%
1
9%

Review highlights

Based on 123 reviews

CENTRAL RECORDS is consistently praised for its unique blend of a cozy café and a vibrant music venue, creating a welcoming space for both relaxation and socializing. Visitors frequently highlight the inviting atmosphere characterized by dim yet functional lighting and a chic, laid-back vibe. The café offers a diverse selection of beverages, including thoughtfully curated natural wines, local beers, and specialty nonalcoholic options, complemented by a menu featuring appealing food choices. The presence of live DJs with well-balanced music volume enhances the ambiance without overpowering conversations. Service is commonly described as friendly and attentive, contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Additionally, the venue’s integration of vinyl sales and online streaming of DJ sets adds a creative, community-oriented dimension that resonates well with patrons, making CENTRAL RECORDS a distinctive spot in downtown Phoenix.

Jim Darrell
Jun 07, 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 07, 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 02, 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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Quick info

Address
824 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Price range
$10–20
Category
Cafes

Opening hours

  • Monday Closed
  • Tuesday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Wednesday (Today) 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Thursday 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Friday 8:00 AM - 1:00 AM
  • Saturday 8:00 AM - 1:00 AM
  • Sunday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Location

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