Brilliant Corners

Nestled on Kingsland Road in Dalston, Brilliant Corners is a Japanese‑inspired restaurant and listening bar that has become an East London institution since opening in 2013. Inside, a curated wood‑panelled space with moody lighting and a disco ball sets the mood before a world‑class analog sound system steals the show—Klipschorn speakers paired with vintage McIntosh amps and Technics turntables deliver true audiophile bliss. Brilliant Corners pairs this sonic purity with Japanese small plates—karaage chicken, miso‑roasted aubergine, oyster mushrooms, sushi‑style bites—served with natural wines and thoughtful cocktails. The menu is concise, inventive, and generous in size: reviewers praise the karaage as “the best fried chicken in London” and tout sashimi beef and wine pours as standout treats. Musical programming ranges from vinyl DJs spinning funk, soul, reggae, lounge and jazz, to curated events like Played Twice, where a full album plays through the system in silence and is followed by a live jazz ensemble interpretation—no stage and no distance between audience and players. Expect a relaxed but savvy crowd. At night the lights dim, tables may be cleared for dancing under the glitter ball, and the vibe becomes deliberately immersive and communal—an ideal spot for music aficionados, creative locals, or anyone craving flavor and sonic storytelling.