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Sing your heart out at the 5 best karaoke bars in Johannesburg!
I admit I love singing, but the feeling isn’t mutual! However, performing at karaoke bars has helped me improve this skill and slowly build my confidence.
The catch is finding a crowd that’s supportive, no matter your skill level. If you’re looking for that energy, I’ve got you covered.
Here are some of the best karaoke bars in Johannesburg where you can belt your heart out!
Karaoke Kong
Media From: karaokekong
Address: 1 7th St, Melville
Phone: +27 878 216 981
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday and Thursday – 4 p.m. to 12 a.m.
- Friday to Saturday – 2 p.m. to 2 a.m.
- Sunday – 3 p.m. to 12 a.m.
Website: https://karaokekong.co.za/
Price Range: R
Let loose and show off your singing skills at Karaoke Kong! With over 50,000 songs in their digital catalogue, you’ll easily find your favourite track.
The quirky and colourful setup makes it easy to take the mic, whether you’re flying solo, singing a duet, or jamming with a group.
The place runs as an open-format karaoke bar and restaurant, so expect a lively crowd.
There’s no charge to sing as long as you order something from the menu, which includes sticky ribs, hot wings, and spring rolls.
I popped in with some friends one weekend, and it was full of energy and good vibes! When my turn came, I belted out Beyoncé’s latest hit, “TEXAS HOLD ’EM,” and my friends, along with a few strangers, jumped up to dance.
Tips:
- Try their Bad Moon Rising—a mix of gin, watermelon, rooibos, lemon, and activated charcoal. It might just give you the guts to hit that high note!
- Don’t want to visit the bar? Let them come to you with their karaoke hire service!
- For a group of 15 and above, you can book a private room where you and your companions can sing.
Ratz Bar
Media From: ratzbarmelville
Address: 9 7th St, Melville
Phone: +27 114 822 414
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ratzbar.melville/
Price Range: RR
For a laid-back and welcoming vibe, head to Ratz Bar. The no-frills yet cosy setup makes it easy to settle in for karaoke nights on Wednesdays and Sundays.
Beyond karaoke, the bar hosts themed nights like Hip-Hop Thursdays, where local DJs bring the beats.
Students can also unwind on Fridays with Student Night, featuring a playlist packed with hits that keep the younger crowd on their feet.
I checked out their karaoke night one Sunday, and it was a blast! The competition was fierce, with cash prizes up for grabs for those who wowed the crowd.
Max.The.KJ kept the night running smoothly, making it one of the most exciting karaoke sessions I’ve been to.
Tip: Plan your visit on Sundays to enjoy their buy-one-get-one-free cocktail special!
Off The Grid Bar & Kitchen
Media From: obakeng.moroe
Address: G20, Cambridge Crossing, c/o Witkoppen Rd & Stonehaven Ave, Paulshof
Phone: +27 104 938 481
Operating Hours:
- Monday – 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Tuesday to Saturday – 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
- Sunday – 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OTGBARKITCHEN/
Price Range: RR
Add some thrill to your karaoke night at Off The Grid Bar & Kitchen. Every Thursday, they host Roulette Karaoke Night, where singers are randomly drawn from a bag. The suspense keeps everyone on edge!
Each week brings a different theme, from ’80s ballads to artist tributes, keeping things fresh and exciting. If you complete your song, your name goes into a raffle, giving you an extra reason to step up and sing.
I checked it out with some friends, and luck was definitely on my side! The moment I put my name in, I was immediately called to sing an Ariana Grande track. If only I had this kind of luck at the casino!
Tip: Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates on upcoming themes and events!
Saigon Suzy (Parkwood)
Media From: saigonsuzy_
Address: Unit 1, Parkwood Mansions, 144 Jan Smuts Ave
Phone: +27 762 849 786
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Website: http://saigonsuzy.co.za/
Price Range: RRR
If you love karaoke but prefer a more private setting, Saigon Suzy is the place to be.
Their No Tell Motel offers an upscale experience with three soundproofed rooms. Tokyo Tina fits up to 12 guests, while Hanoi Hannah and Katana Katy can accommodate groups of up to eight.
Each room features a touchscreen control pad and a massive library of over 65,000 tracks across different genres.
Alongside the music, you can enjoy authentic Asian street food like bao, bun cha, and pho. Thirsty? They’ve got creative cocktails, slushies, and a selection of imported Asian drinks.
I booked Hanoi Hannah for my best friend’s birthday, keeping it intimate with just our closest mates. The room felt exclusive, with stunning decor, bespoke artwork, and bold colours that set the perfect mood.
Tip: To keep the private rooms clean, it’s best to stick to drinks inside. There are nearby dining tables where you can enjoy dishes like BBQ and Asian-inspired appetizers before or after your karaoke session.
Bailey’s Bedfordview
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Address: 61 Van Buuren Rd
Phone: +27 662 682 803
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Friday to Saturday – 12 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Website: http://www.baileyslive.co.za/
Price Range: R
Head to Bailey’s Bedfordview every Wednesday night to show off your singing skills! The setup is designed to get everyone involved. With a top-notch sound system and an LGBTQ+-friendly vibe, it’s the perfect spot to let loose and have fun.
Beyond karaoke, the venue hosts themed nights featuring live music, DJs, comedy shows, dance parties, and games. There’s even a singles’ meet-up if you’re open to meeting someone new.
And if you’re feeling hungry, you can tuck into gourmet burgers, pizzas, wraps, and more while enjoying the entertainment.
I love the energy of this place! Everyone is there for a good time and great company.
Tip: Check their website for monthly event updates so you can plan your visit accordingly!
