Not everybody has the kind of voice that can sell out amphitheaters or arenas, but everybody has got a voice for karaoke. A good karaoke bar is the epitome of equality, whether you are a diamond in the rough or rough around the edges, you are nearly certain to get applause post-performance. Karaoke has an unfair wrap, and a night out for a little singing and dancing can do anybody a world of good.
Even if you are not intent on performing, watching the events always makes for an entertaining night in itself. Nothing beats a night out at a bar with free live entertainment that can prove to be anything between comedy and public access television. Still, it is suggested you heed the siren’s call of the mighty karaoke machine and act out your rock n’ roll fantasies in front of an audience that is guaranteed not to demand a refund.
Discover ten of our favorite San Diego karaoke bars to sing your heart out.
Chorus Karaoke and Café in Kearny Mesa
This karaoke hot spot has become the go-to place for local aficionados. Offering private rooms to groups of guests, there is no reason not to let out your inner rockstar with your closest friends. The Chorus Karaoke and Cafe also serves up delicious Korean fare to patrons who work up an appetite.
Analog Bar in Gaslamp Quarter
This hip retro joint is one of the newest additions to the Downtown San Diego scene. Split into two sections, equal parts bar and restaurant, Analog has plenty of tricks up its sleeve to entertain guests. Obviously, its karaoke nights make for some top notch entertainment with a deep songbook to choose from. While waiting to perform, feel free to play a few video games on one of the many overhead screens right from your table. Analog also offers a series of signature cocktails that are sure to loosen you up before curtain call. For more information, visit Analog Bar.
Muzen Karaoke in Kearny Mesa
Making use of newer technology and state-of-the-art video and audio systems, Muzen Karaoke will let groups take stage in their own private rooms. With rooms varying in both size and price, this unique karaoke bar can accompany anywhere between five and 40 people. Learn more about this spot at muzenkaraoke.com.
Island Sports & Spirits in Coronado
With a full bar and a delicious sampling of burgers, Island Sports & Spirits usually finds itself packed shoulder to shoulder on a good night. While sports are usually the entertainment of choice at this bar, karaoke takes the spotlight on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Get good enough and maybe you can become one of the live musical acts on display Fridays and Saturdays.
Carriage House Lounge in Kearny Mesa
One of the few places in San Diego that can be proud to offer karaoke every night of the week, the Carriage House Lounge caters to the hardcore. Outside of their dedication, the die-hard audience is also known for being one of the warmest and most welcoming groups around. A great place to take your vocals out on a test drive, Carriage House is a cozy spot. Visit carriagehousesandiego.com for more information.
Main Tap Tavern in El Cajon
Most commonly known for its strong drinks, friendly staff and hearty bar food, the Main Tap Tavern in El Cajon now has karaoke nights. Twice a week, on Tuesday and Thursday nights, the self-proclaimed “#1 Karaoke Team in East County” hand over the mic and let you unleash the beast within. Read more about the event at maintaptavern.com.
Camel’s Breath Inn in La Mesa
Playing host to a variety of locals due to the convenient location off the 15 freeway, the Camel’s Breath Inn is one of the rare neighborhood bars in the area. Accompanying dart leagues, billiards games and Wii night, karaoke is regular occurrence on Sunday through Thursday.
Rock Out Karaoke in Pacific Beach
Finally, the chance to take center stage and sing your favorite songs with a live backing band. Rock Out Karaoke is a live band that plays in Pacific Beach that allows patrons to choose their favorite songs, take stage and tear the house down. This is a whole new way to karaoke. To view the entire songbook and start warming up head to rockoutkaraoke.com.
The Lamplighter in Mission Hills
Offering karaoke every night at the week starting at 9 p.m., it is obvious why The Lamplighter has become a popular spot to rock out after work. Conveniently located in Mission Hills, this spot offers up a full bar with notoriously strong drinks to accompany the entertainment. The Lamplighter is lucky enough to have its own private parking lot, which makes stopping by for a quick song a snap. Check out The Lamplighter for more information.
Too Cool For Karaoke
Taking place at the Whistle Stop in South Park, Too Cool For Karaoke is ready to make sure everyone has a good time. With contests and dance parties aplenty to keep everyone involved, this event is definitely not one to be missed. Keep up with its Facebook page at Too Cool For Karaoke for upcoming event dates.
Are we still missing one? Leave a comment below to share your favorite San Diego karaoke bars to sing with us.
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