The 9 Best Places in San Diego to Rock Out With Some Karaoke
When the typical bar-going experience just won’t do and you need a little something extra (you know, some nostalgic tunes to take you back to the good ol’ days when whiskey drowned all sorrows), we know just the thing…some karaoke!
Here are the best places in San Diego to sing to your heart’s content – or at least go throw a few back while you listen to others living vicariously through their rockstar alter egos.
1. The Lamplighter
When we asked some friends about their favorite karaoke spots, we got an overwhelming response for The Lamplighter in Mission Hills.
Food, drinks, and some sweet karaoke. Pretty simple and doesn’t get much better.
2. Redwing Bar & Grill
Redwing Bar & Grill, described by the San Diego Reader as a place of “dive-bar debauchery,” is one of those classic spots where you go get a few cold ones with your buds and enjoy some passionate renditions of “Red Solo Cup.”
3. The Shout! House
The Shout! House isn’t exactly a karaoke spot. It’s more like karaoke on krack {sic}. They offer rock ‘n’ roll sing-a-longs and dueling pianos!
How it works: Two piano players/singers at two face-to-face grand pianos in front of large mirrors performing the classic rock ‘n’ roll hits from the 1950s to now. It’s request-driven by the audience and with the use of multiple teams, goes non-stop all night!
4. Melody Karaoke & Café
Prefer a private-room karaoke experience? Head to Melody Karaoke & Café in the Convoy District. With spacious rooms, a solid song selection, and plenty of food and drink options, it’s perfect for groups looking to sing without an audience of strangers.
5. Hive
Hive is a swanky Korean karaoke lounge with a full bar, beers on draft, and a pretty awesome food menu. If you have a larger party going in to sing, make sure to reserve your spots in advance.
6. Rock Out Karaoke
Karaoke is great, but if you dream of being the lead singer with an awesome backup band, check out Rock Out Karaoke.
The group puts on one of San Diego’s most dynamic live performances, combining the raw power of a live rock band with the fun of audience participation. Individual singers take center stage with the live band!
They play at House of Blues about once a month. They also do private parties! You can reach out to the group at info@rockoutkaraoke.com.
7. Werewolf
If you want high-energy karaoke with a rowdy, up-for-anything crowd, Werewolf in the Gaslamp is the place to be. This lively bar keeps the vibes going strong with killer drinks, a fun-loving audience, and plenty of support for even the most questionable song choices.
8. Gaslamplighter
A new spin on the beloved Lamplighter in Mission Hills, Gaslamplighter brings the same karaoke magic to downtown. Expect top-notch cocktails, a high-tech stage, and an enthusiastic crowd ready to sing along (or roast you, all in good fun).
9. Saddle Bar
If you’re up in North County, Saddle Bar in Solana Beach is where it’s at for a good mix of karaoke, live music, and DJs. Grab a drink, pick your song, and enjoy the coastal energy.
So get up some liquid courage and sing your heart out! You may be a little out of tune, but after a few cocktails, no one seems to care.
See you there, San Diego!