Top 10 Karaoke Bars in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Karaoke nights in Johannesburg offer a vibrant mix of fun, music, and community, making them a perfect outing for friends, families, or solo adventurers looking to unleash their inner pop star. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a shy singer needing a bit of liquid courage, Joburg’s karaoke scene has something for everyone. From trendy bars in Melville to upscale venues in Sandton, the city boasts diverse spots where you can belt out classics or modern hits. This guide highlights the top 10 karaoke bars in Johannesburg, focusing on venues that deliver exceptional experiences, great vibes, and quality amenities. Each spot has been selected based on atmosphere, song selection, service, and customer feedback, ensuring you find the perfect place to sing your heart out. Get ready to grab the mic and dive into Joburg’s lively karaoke culture!

Top 10 Karaoke Bars in Johannesburg

1. Karaoke Kong (Melville)

Karaoke Kong in Melville is a boutique karaoke bar and restaurant that stands out for its stylish décor and lively atmosphere. Open Wednesday to Sunday, it offers free karaoke with any menu order, making it accessible for all. The venue features premium bar food, signature cocktails, and a vast song selection catering to various tastes. Its private booking options are ideal for birthdays, corporate events, or bachelorette parties. The staff’s attentiveness and the funky, neon-lit ambiance create a welcoming space for both seasoned singers and first-timers.

  • Address: 1 7th Street, Melville, Johannesburg

  • Contact: 087 821 6981 | [email protected]

  • Karaoke Nights: Wednesday–Sunday, 6 PM–late

  • Why Visit: Free karaoke, premium food, and vibrant décor

  • Source:

2. Saigon Suzy (Rosebank)

Saigon Suzy combines Asian-inspired cuisine with a rock ‘n’ roll vibe, featuring private karaoke pods in its “No Tell Motel” setup. Located in Rosebank, this bar is perfect for groups seeking an intimate singing experience. The menu draws from Southern Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai flavors, paired with creative cocktails. Karaoke nights are a highlight, with high-quality sound systems and a diverse song catalog. Booking is recommended due to high demand for the pods.

  • Address: 177 Oxford Rd, Rosebank, Johannesburg

  • Contact: [email protected]

  • Karaoke Nights: Available daily, booking required

  • Why Visit: Private pods, Asian fusion menu, and upscale vibe

  • Source:

3. Ratz Bar (Melville)

Ratz Bar is a Melville favorite, known for its laid-back, gay-friendly atmosphere and regular karaoke nights on Wednesdays and Sundays. The bar kicks off with happy hour from 4 PM to 8 PM, followed by karaoke at 6 PM. With ice-cold drinks, tasty bar food, and a pumping music selection, Ratz creates a fun, inclusive environment. It’s a great spot for locals and visitors looking to enjoy a casual night of singing and socializing.

  • Address: 9 7th Street, Melville, Johannesburg

  • Contact: 011 482 9965 | [email protected]

  • Karaoke Nights: Wednesday and Sunday, 6 PM–late

  • Why Visit: Inclusive vibe, happy hour specials, and regular karaoke

  • Source:

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4. Off the Grid Bar & Kitchen (Paulshof)

Off the Grid (OTG) Bar & Kitchen in Paulshof hosts Karaoke Roulette every Thursday at 7:30 PM, adding a fun twist to the traditional karaoke experience. The karaoke jockey (KJ) draws names and songs from bags, with themes like 80s ballads or artist-specific nights. Completing a song enters you into a raffle for prizes. The venue’s friendly staff, good food, and community feel make it a must-visit for a unique karaoke night.

  • Address: Corner of Stonehaven and Witkoppen Roads, Paulshof, Johannesburg

  • Contact: 010 493 8482 | [email protected]

  • Karaoke Nights: Thursday, 7:30 PM–late

  • Why Visit: Karaoke Roulette, themed nights, and raffle prizes

  • Source:

5. Omen Bar (Rosebank)

Omen Bar at The Zone in Rosebank transforms into a karaoke hotspot every Tuesday evening. Known for its expertly crafted cocktails and modern ambiance, Omen encourages shy singers to become unstoppable performers. The venue’s sound system and song variety cater to all genres, from timeless classics to current hits. It’s an ideal spot for a midweek escape with friends or a date night.

  • Address: 177 Oxford Rd, Rosebank, Johannesburg

  • Contact: [email protected]

  • Karaoke Nights: Tuesday, 6 PM–late

  • Why Visit: Great cocktails, modern setting, and Tuesday night fun

  • Source:

6. Colony Arms (Craighall Park)

Colony Arms, a local pub and grill in Craighall Park, hosts karaoke every Saturday night, drawing a lively crowd. The venue offers a classic pub experience with hearty food, cold beers, and a welcoming atmosphere. Its karaoke nights are perfect for those who enjoy a community-driven vibe, with a mix of regulars and newcomers taking the stage. The song selection is broad, ensuring everyone finds a tune to sing.

  • Address: The Colony Centre, 345 Jan Smuts Avenue, Craighall Park

  • Contact: Follow Colony Arms on Facebook for updates

  • Karaoke Nights: Saturday, 7 PM–late

  • Why Visit: Classic pub vibe, community feel, and Saturday karaoke

  • Source:

7. Bailey’s Bedfordview (Bedfordview)

Bailey’s in Bedfordview is an upmarket bar with a stage for live entertainment, including karaoke nights. The venue features a big screen and multiple TVs, making it a great spot for groups. Its menu includes tasty bar food, and there’s a dedicated smoking balcony for convenience. Karaoke at Bailey’s is lively, with a professional sound system and an extensive song list, perfect for a fun night out.

  • Address: Linksfield Terrace Shopping Center, Bedfordview, Johannesburg

  • Contact: Check Bailey’s Bedfordview website for details

  • Karaoke Nights: Check schedule for specific nights

  • Why Visit: Upmarket setting, large screens, and diverse entertainment

  • Source:

8. Democracy Bar and Restaurant (Illovo)

Located in the vibrant Illovo neighborhood, Democracy Bar and Restaurant offers a unique karaoke experience where patrons can vote on nightly drink specials. Karaoke nights are part of its diverse entertainment lineup, which includes live performances and themed events. The stylish décor, quality food, and interactive atmosphere make it a standout choice for a memorable karaoke evening.

  • Address: Illovo Muse Centre, 198 Oxford Rd, Illovo, Johannesburg

  • Contact: Check Democracy Bar’s website for bookings

  • Karaoke Nights: Check schedule for specific nights

  • Why Visit: Interactive specials, stylish ambiance, and varied entertainment

  • Source:

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9. Kitchener’s Carvery Bar (Braamfontein)

Kitchener’s Carvery Bar in Braamfontein is a historic venue with a lively nightlife scene, including occasional karaoke nights. Known for its affordable drinks and vibrant crowd, it attracts a mix of students and locals. The karaoke setup includes a decent sound system and a wide song selection, making it a fun spot for a spontaneous sing-along in the heart of Joburg’s trendy district.

  • Address: 71 Juta St, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

  • Contact: Check Kitchener’s social media for event updates

  • Karaoke Nights: Check schedule for specific nights

  • Why Visit: Trendy location, affordable drinks, and lively crowd

  • Source:

10. Six Cocktail Bar (Melville)

Six Cocktail Bar in Melville is a cozy venue with over 60 unique cocktails and a reputation for hosting fun karaoke nights on Fridays. The art-adorned walls and intimate seating create a welcoming vibe for singers and spectators alike. While the sound equipment could use an upgrade, the energetic atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a laid-back karaoke experience.

  • Address: 19 Biermann Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg

  • Contact: Check Six Cocktail Bar’s social media for updates

  • Karaoke Nights: Friday, 8 PM–late

  • Why Visit: Extensive cocktail menu, cozy vibe, and Friday karaoke

  • Source:

Why Karaoke is a Hit in Johannesburg

Karaoke’s popularity in Johannesburg stems from its ability to bring people together in a fun, judgment-free environment. The city’s diverse culture is reflected in its karaoke venues, which cater to various tastes—whether you’re into pop, rock, R&B, or local hits. These bars often combine great food, drinks, and entertainment, making them ideal for socializing. Many venues also offer private rooms or themed nights, adding variety to the experience. According to local sources, karaoke nights are a staple in neighborhoods like Melville and Rosebank, where community vibes and nightlife thrive.

Tips for a Great Karaoke Night in Joburg

To make the most of your karaoke experience, consider these tips:

  • Book in Advance: Popular venues like Karaoke Kong and Saigon Suzy require reservations, especially for private rooms or large groups.

  • Arrive Early: Secure a good spot and take advantage of happy hour deals at places like Ratz Bar or Omen Bar.

  • Choose Your Song Wisely: Pick a crowd-pleaser or a song you know well to boost confidence. Most venues offer extensive catalogs.

  • Bring Friends: Karaoke is more fun with a supportive group, and many bars offer group discounts or packages.

  • Check Schedules: Some venues, like Colony Arms, host karaoke on specific days, so confirm before heading out.

  • Respect the Mic: Follow the KJ’s rules and share the stage to keep the night flowing smoothly.

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How to Choose the Right Karaoke Bar

Selecting the perfect karaoke bar depends on your preferences:

  • Atmosphere: For a trendy, upscale vibe, try Saigon Suzy or Democracy Bar. For a laid-back, local feel, Ratz Bar or Colony Arms is ideal.

  • Song Selection: Venues like Karaoke Kong and Bailey’s offer vast catalogs, ensuring you find your favorite tunes.

  • Privacy: If you prefer singing with friends, opt for Saigon Suzy’s private pods or Karaoke Kong’s group bookings.

  • Food and Drinks: Bars like Six Cocktail Bar and Off the Grid excel in creative menus and cocktails.

  • Location: Melville and Rosebank are karaoke hubs, with multiple options within walking distance.

The Future of Karaoke in Johannesburg

Karaoke continues to evolve in Joburg, with new venues like Karaoke Kong leading the way in boutique experiences. Technology is enhancing the experience, with apps like Singa allowing users to request songs via mobile devices. Themed nights, such as OTG’s Karaoke Roulette, are gaining traction, keeping the scene fresh. As the city’s nightlife grows, expect more bars to incorporate karaoke into their offerings, catering to Joburg’s love for music and entertainment.

FAQs About Karaoke in Johannesburg

What are the best days for karaoke in Johannesburg?

Karaoke is available throughout the week, with popular nights including Tuesdays (Omen Bar), Wednesdays and Sundays (Ratz Bar), Thursdays (Off the Grid), and Saturdays (Colony Arms). Check specific schedules for each venue.

Are there private karaoke rooms in Johannesburg?

Yes, Saigon Suzy offers private karaoke pods, and Karaoke Kong provides group bookings for a more intimate experience.

Is karaoke free in Johannesburg?

Many venues, like Karaoke Kong, offer free karaoke with a menu purchase. Others, like Ratz Bar, have no cover charge but encourage food and drink orders.

Can I host a party at a karaoke bar?

Absolutely. Karaoke Kong and Saigon Suzy are popular for birthdays and corporate events, with private rooms and customizable packages.

What types of songs are available?

Most bars offer a wide range, from international hits (pop, rock, R&B) to local South African favorites. Venues like Bailey’s and Karaoke Kong have extensive catalogs.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s karaoke scene is a vibrant tapestry of music, culture, and community, offering something for every singer and partygoer. From the boutique charm of Karaoke Kong to the rock ‘n’ roll energy of Saigon Suzy, these top 10 karaoke bars deliver unforgettable nights. Whether you’re in Melville, Rosebank, or Craighall Park, you’ll find a venue that suits your vibe. Grab your friends, warm up your vocal cords, and dive into Joburg’s karaoke culture for a night of laughter, song, and connection. Check venue websites or social media for the latest schedules and bookings to ensure your spot at the mic!