Best karaoke bars in Calgary: find options near you
Calgary's nightlife offers a wide array of entertainment options, and for those who enjoy singing and having fun, the city boasts a unique selection of venues dedicated to the art of karaoke. Finding the perfect place to belt out your favorite tunes, regardless of skill level, requires a little research. These establishments represent a diverse range of atmospheres, from cozy and intimate settings to larger, more energetic spaces.
Identifying the best establishments providing karaoke experiences in Calgary presents a delightful challenge, given the numerous options available. These spots cultivate a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where everyone can feel comfortable unleashing their inner superstar. Each possesses a distinct character, promising a memorable and entertaining evening for groups, individuals, and seasoned performers alike.
Discover 10 outstanding options for karaoke bars in Calgary
Here are 10 outstanding options for karaoke bars in Calgary based on value for money:
1. Kensington Pub
Tuesday: 11:00–00:00
Wednesday: 11:00–00:00
Thursday: 11:00–00:00
Friday: 11:00–01:00
Saturday: 10:30–01:00
Sunday: 10:30–23:00
Kensington Pub offers a genuinely welcoming atmosphere. It’s clear that providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for patrons is a priority. The staff are consistently praised for their friendly demeanor and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure everyone feels valued. A true community hub, it’s a place where you can easily relax and unwind after a long day.
The food is another highlight, with many dishes receiving rave reviews. The pub has a reputation for reliably good meals, often emphasizing quality ingredients. It is a destination for simple pleasures, the kind of establishment where the focus is on delivering delicious food> and fostering a sense of belonging, promoting a positive well-being.
The service can’t be beat here. We overhead at a nearby table where they forgot to key in the order, causing it to be delayed. The waitress profusely apologized and covered the cost of that dish for those folks. Talk about taking care of their customers to make it right. Top notch.
They have a small-ish but great selection of beers on tap. The food was great, my table had the Sunday roast, schnitzel, fish and chips, and the sticky toffee pudding, and all were great!
It’s a tight place, and because it’s a neighbourhood pub, so expect to wait at peak times.
Coleslaw was flavourless 2/10
Peach drink (clearly not a Bellini but you could help by adding what peach drink it you have in your reply). All Prosecco and no peach 3/10
Waiting for the server was the worst part of the experience. It was slow, mid day and we were told to sit at a booth.
We waited nearly 20 minutes before we got drinks or menus. Then another 20 for her to come back to order.. food came decently, but then after we were done, she took our food, our drinks and we waited another 20 minutes for the bill.
That haddock though, I’ll probably order to pick-up next time I’m in the area! It was delicious.
Also why only mention the drink, and not the poor service???
2. Side Street Pub & Grill
Tuesday: 11:00–02:00
Wednesday: 11:00–02:00
Thursday: 11:00–02:00
Friday: 11:00–02:00
Saturday: 11:00–02:00
Sunday: 11:00–02:00
Side Street Pub & Grill presents a genuinely pleasant dining experience. The atmosphere is consistently welcoming, making it a comfortable spot for a casual get-together. The staff are known to be friendly and attentive, contributing significantly to the overall positive ambiance. The menu offers a diverse range of options, with particularly praised items including wings and pasta dishes; it’s a place known for its delicious food and reasonable prices.
It’s a great option for those seeking a relaxed setting and good value. The establishment is frequently celebrated for its attentive service, and it’s clear that customer satisfaction is a priority. Many appreciate the comfortable atmosphere and the wide selection of beverages. It consistently receives recognition as a go-to spot for a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
The prices are also very pleasant)
Nachos and burger were good but the pizza was bad. The cheese was very gelatinous and chunky.
Drinks were good and priced well.
3. O’Sullivan’s Restaurant & Bar
Tuesday: 11:00–00:00
Wednesday: 11:00–00:00
Thursday: 11:00–00:00
Friday: 11:00–02:00
Saturday: 11:00–02:00
Sunday: 12:00–00:00
O’Sullivan’s Restaurant & Bar appears to be a popular destination, especially on wing nights, based on feedback. The attentive and personable service, as reported by many, creates a welcoming atmosphere. It’s clear that staff members like Portia contribute significantly to the overall positive experience. Friendly staff and a pleasant environment are recurring themes.
The establishment is notably appreciated for its affordability and well-priced drinks. A variety of wing flavors, alongside delightful cocktails like the Peach Kiss Martini, make it an attractive option for those seeking both tasty food and beverages. Affordable prices and a good selection of drinks are major draws for guests.
Overall not a great meal. It looked alright but it wasn’t at par with a freshly battered fish.
It’s a good deal, but the wings are on the small side (like ~1.5-2 inches, bite sized). Tried Tandoori and Electric Honey flavours. The tandoori is not close to what i expected and VERY salty. My lips were inflamed because it was so salty. The Electric Honey sounds like it should be spicy but it’s more of a sourish/tangy like it has a lot of vinegar. The server was trying her best and apologized for the taste of the wings. If they were not part of the special and i was paying regular price for those flavours it wouldn’t be a good deal.
When it’s a full house then there’s not a lot of space to wait (there’s really not a lot of space between the door and the bar).
It was not too special. And I thought servers gonna tell us ‘thank you for waiting’ or something…. 😉
Kristin was lovely
Nice atmosphere inside, better than expected honestly. I like the wall paper and plants.
4. Border Crossing Pub
Tuesday: 10:00–23:30
Wednesday: 10:00–00:30
Thursday: 10:00–23:30
Friday: 10:00–03:00
Saturday: 10:00–03:00
Sunday: 10:00–23:30
Border Crossing Pub offers a truly welcoming atmosphere, a place where you instantly feel at ease. The staff create a sense of community, making it more than just a bar; it’s a spot to build connections and enjoy some enjoyable company. The feeling of safety and support is palpable, contributing to a truly comfortable experience. It’s a place that fosters a strong sense of belonging.
The establishment’s dedication to supporting local artists and musicians is admirable, enhancing the overall enjoyment. The pricing is reasonable, making it accessible for many. This contributes to a positive and inclusive environment for all patrons and contributes to the feeling of value. It’s a place known for its friendly environment and commitment to fostering relationships.
This is my home away from home! I feel comfortable, safe, and have made life time friendships with staff, patrons, and musicians!
I have tried 2 items from the new menu and thoroughly enjoyed both. Compliments to the head chef and her staff!
The management team are observably supportive to each other and their bar staff, and friendly and inclusive to all!
Additionally they support many charitable causes, donating their own talents and skills, with musician friends doing the same!
With much love and admiration!
Overall a bad experience. Never going back.
If you’re going to raise your prices, make sure the quality of the food matches.
Came out to listen to the live music. The band was really good. Nice size venue. The prices are reasonable. Looks like a local favorite place to socialize.
5. SOLE Restaurant&Bar
Tuesday: 17:30–02:00
Wednesday: 17:30–02:00
Thursday: 17:30–01:30
Friday: 17:30–02:30
Saturday: 18:00–02:30
Sunday: 19:00–02:00
SOLE Restaurant & Bar appears to be a fantastic option for a memorable evening with friends. Reports consistently highlight the friendly and accommodating staff, creating a truly welcoming atmosphere. The spacious karaoke rooms, equipped with modern technology and frequently updated song selections, suggest a smooth and enjoyable singing experience.
Many find the food presentation appealing, although it’s noted to be somewhat priced. Overall, the focus on providing a positive and comfortable environment makes it a suitable choice for celebrations and casual get-togethers. The emphasis on attentive service and updated music makes it a place offering entertainment, delicious food, and great ambiance.
If you and friends are looking for a fun and good night, Sole is a place to have a good time and to make new friends.
Call ahead for karaoke room reservations.
I called them a day before, they replied fast and clear. Even if it’s a bit short notice, we got lucky that there’s still one room available for us for 2hours – even if we got there on their opening hour, they let us in already and we were able to order foods and drinks.
It’s not my first time at karaoke bars here in Calgary but this one is the BEST I’ve been to!
Rooms are spacious enough, and the lighting won’t give you seizures – it’s very eye-friendly (I can tell, because I’m sensitive with bright and/or moving lights)
Foods and drinks are awesome and are reasonably priced (not expensive at all). Service is remarkable – they made sure that we are comfortable and well-attended.
Songs are updated, easy to search (there are english translated words taped on the remote) and the microphones are sounding all good.
Overall, we loved it here and we will definitely come back! Thanks again to Kevin for accommodating us tonight.
6. Ducky’s Pub & Restaurant
Tuesday: 14:00–02:00
Wednesday: 14:00–02:00
Thursday: 14:00–02:00
Friday: 14:00–02:00
Saturday: 14:00–02:00
Sunday: 16:00–02:00
Ducky’s Pub & Restaurant provides a genuinely enjoyable atmosphere for those seeking a fun karaoke experience. The staff consistently receives praise for their friendly and supportive nature, creating a welcoming environment where even novice singers feel encouraged to participate. It’s a place where the focus is clearly on fostering a positive and uplifting feeling for everyone present, contributing to a sense of camaraderie.
The quality of the karaoke selection seems extensive, catering to a wide range of musical tastes. Moreover, the service consistently demonstrates an ability to handle busy nights efficiently, ensuring guests are attended to promptly. This commitment to a positive customer experience and impressive song availability makes it a strong choice for entertainment.
7. Watchman’s Pub & Eatery
Tuesday: 11:00–02:00
Wednesday: 11:00–02:00
Thursday: 11:00–02:00
Friday: 11:00–02:00
Saturday: 11:00–02:00
Sunday: 10:30–02:00
Watchman’s Pub & Eatery seems to be a place where you can consistently find a welcoming atmosphere. Many visitors appreciate the friendly and attentive staff, who make an effort to remember regulars and create a positive experience. It’s clear that the service is a major draw, with servers often going above and beyond to ensure everyone feels comfortable and well-cared for. Excellent customer service is a recurring theme.
Beyond the welcoming staff, it appears the recent updates to the menu have been a success. The addition of new dishes like the salmon poke bowl has been particularly well-received, demonstrating a commitment to providing a diverse and appealing selection. The innovative menu options, coupled with the friendly service, makes it a place you’re likely to return to.
Checked their website recently and saw it was updated, with a new menu. It was Saturday and the daily special was steak frites, so I decided to try it out while watching playoff hockey. (Note: it was UFC Night so most TVs had that on, along with the sound system).
Got there just after the game started and sat myself, waited a few minutes until a server noticed me, asked if I’d been helped yet, then another one came over, gave me a food menu and took my drink order. She brought me my drink, and then disappeared for over half an hour. I saw her hanging out by the bar, and back by the kitchen, but didn’t see her working the floor much.
It was almost the end of the period and I’d decided I was going to leave at intermission, when I got her attention and she came over. I ordered the steak frites, medium. She brought it out in a timely manner. Correct me if I’m wrong, but I believe medium is still pink. This was closer to well done, see photo.
The place wasn’t terribly busy when I left, maybe half full.
I would definitely recommend this place. Even though I mentioned it n person, I would like to say a big thank you to Jillian for her service.
The pub became busy after a little later in the evening. Karaoke nights. The atmosphere….the booths run down and worn. Bathroom very clean.Service and hospitality excellent!!
There was also a brand new food menu and I got to try the salmon poke bowl. I was surprised to see something like that at a pub but it was delicious. I would recommend 10 out of 10
8. Regal Beagle Macleod
Tuesday: 10:30–01:00
Wednesday: 10:30–02:00
Thursday: 10:30–02:00
Friday: 10:30–02:00
Saturday: 10:30–02:00
Sunday: 10:30–01:00
Regal Beagle Macleod seems like a genuinely enjoyable establishment, consistently praised for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming vibe. Many patrons highlight the excellent service they receive, with staff frequently mentioned as being attentive and helpful, contributing to a comfortable and pleasurable experience.
The reputation for good food is also a major draw, offering delicious options alongside a strong selection of drinks. It’s clear that community engagement plays a key role, with special nights and events creating memorable moments. The overall impression is that of a place offering reliable enjoyment and positive interactions.
1st time we sat for 40 min waiting to be approached by a server. I eventually had to go ask the bartender if they had a waitress. It wasn’t busy there were maybe 2 other tables.
2nd time we sat on the outdoor patio, immediately made contact with the server. Again there was one other table and us. She proceeded to walk past us with empty hands, she stopped and let us know she would be back with menus, never once took a drink order, she walked past multiple times with empty hands. When she started wiping the table beside us we left!!
The food is decent, but the servers at this pub are completely useless! Time to clean house and hire proper staff!
They had a couple events going on which includes music bingo, name-that-tune, and karaoke. We played the games, cheered on the crowd, and sang some songs. We may not have won anything, but we had the best time.
The food was truly excellent. We had appetizers, and they were not only a comfort food, but they satisfied a lot of cravings. I can’t wait to try some more at a later date. By the warmth and flavors of these foods you can tell that there is a lot of love here.
The place was also clean and comfortable. They have a playful, but down-to-earth ambiance that makes a person feel both energetic and at ease. I loved a lot of their random signs on the walls. It’s so funny how a Pub like this can feel like home.
The people were absolutely wonderful. Our server was named Dan and he was a treasure. He was funny with a great sense of humor, and he gave good recommendations when he wasn’t answering our questions.
This is definitely a place to go when you want to hang out with friends or make some new ones. A place where any event can be held, and everybody leaves with a smile on their face.
9. Captains Sports Lounge & Grill
Tuesday: 11:00–00:00
Wednesday: 11:00–02:00
Thursday: 11:00–02:00
Friday: 11:00–02:00
Saturday: 11:00–02:00
Sunday: 11:00–00:00
Captains Sports Lounge & Grill consistently offers a relaxed and enjoyable experience. The friendly and attentive service ensures a comfortable visit, making it a great place to unwind after a long day. The atmosphere is always welcoming, perfect for gathering with friends and family to enjoy some delicious food.
It’s clear that they prioritize customer satisfaction; the staff genuinely seem to care about creating a pleasant visit for everyone. The selection of beverages is notable, complemented by a menu that provides something for various tastes, always offering a good range of pub-style dishes.
We keep coming for the breakfast. Absolutely tastey and service is great!
Karaoke Friday is awesome!
Music Bingo so much fun Wednesday!
GREAT SERVICE (OUR WAITRESS WAS AWESOME. MADE US FEEL WELCOME AND AT HOME AT CAPTAINS Very attentive AND SHE was GORGEOUS TO )
THE ATMOSPHERE IS A CLEAN GREAT LOOKING Neighbourhood Pub.
And the OWNERSHIP IS TOP NOTCH
LOOKING FOR A NICE COLD BEER AND FANTASTIC FOOD WITH GREAT SERVICE , ITS CAPTAINS! SEE YOU THERE!
ALSO SOME OTHER GREAT DRINK OPTIONS TO, LIKE A NICE BOURBAN LEMONADE .
We ate all the 60 wings were ordered so was too late when I remembered taking a photo hahaha
If you’re after a fun, casual spot with solid pub fare, sports on big screens, and friendly staff, Captain’s is a standout. Highly recommended!
10. Galaxy Karaoke
Tuesday: 18:00–00:00
Wednesday: 18:00–00:00
Thursday: 18:00–00:00
Friday: 18:00–02:00
Saturday: 18:00–02:00
Sunday: 18:00–00:00
Galaxy Karaoke provides a genuinely enjoyable experience for group gatherings. The spaces are notably well-maintained and offer ample room for singing and socializing, fostering a comfortable and energetic atmosphere. Staff interactions were consistently positive, demonstrating a willingness to accommodate requests, which contributes to a relaxing environment.
A highlight is the attention to detail concerning the overall ambiance. The sound quality is impressive, allowing for clear vocals and lively music, and the management seems to understand the importance of creating a space where people can feel comfortable. It provides an environment where concerns regarding lighting or volume are treated with respect and proactively addressed, adding significantly to a feel-good vibe.
I found it considerably nice that when I complained of migraines due to the flashing lights, we were promptly moved to a different room that had better lighting control. The flashing lights did turn back on towards the end (10 minutes till we left) but I know that if I asked they would have fixed it.
Didn’t get any alcohol, but did get their fried dumplings! They were yummy.
The one thing that was kind of annoying to me was the sound proofing. It didn’t bother my friend, but I could hear the music outside of our room very clearly and it was overstimulating. However, if you don’t have sound sensitivity this probably won’t be a problem and can be ignored.
Thank you for being so kind with my migraine struggles! This was my first time at a karaoke bar, and I was nervous about it.
They asked if we wanted water for the room at the start and they only brought us one pitcher for 12 people – we had to go back and ask for 2 more. Drinks were a decent price though none of us ordered food since we’d eaten elsewhere before coming so I can’t speak for it.
I also wish we could’ve controlled the party lights in the room more. One of our group had epilepsy and though we informed the staff, all they could do was turn all the party lights off – it was really all or none with no in between.
How to find your ideal karaoke bar at the best price in Calgary?
Request help now to find the best price:
- Fill in the details and tell us what you're looking for
- We locate the best karaoke bar in Calgary near you
- The company contacts you
Catalog of services offered by karaoke bars in Calgary
Private Karaoke Room Rentals
Many karaoke bars in Calgary offer private karaoke room rentals for birthdays, corporate events, or smaller gatherings. These rooms typically accommodate varying group sizes and offer a more intimate singing experience away from the main bar area.
Extensive Song Libraries
A key feature of many karaoke establishments is an extensive song library. These libraries contain a wide range of genres, artists, and decades of music to cater to diverse musical tastes and ensure everyone can find something they enjoy singing.
High-Quality Sound Systems
To enhance the singing experience, karaoke bars in Calgary generally provide high-quality sound systems. This ensures clear audio, powerful bass, and accurate vocal reproduction, allowing singers to perform their best.
Professional Karaoke Equipment
The functionality of karaoke relies on professional karaoke equipment. This includes digital keyboards, microphones, and advanced song selection systems, allowing for easy navigation through the song list and seamless transitions between performances.
Themed Karaoke Nights
To add variety and excitement, many karaoke bars offer themed karaoke nights. These nights might focus on specific music genres (e.g., 80s night, country night), decades, or even movie soundtracks, providing a unique and entertaining atmosphere.
Food and Beverage Services
Most karaoke establishments in Calgary incorporate food and beverage services alongside the singing entertainment. This often includes a menu of appetizers, meals, and a selection of drinks, allowing guests to enjoy refreshments while they sing and socialize.
DJ Services and Music Selection
In addition to karaoke, some bars offer DJ services and music selection for periods between karaoke performances or for patrons who prefer a different type of musical entertainment. This keeps the atmosphere lively and ensures there’s something for everyone.
Group Packages and Party Deals
Many karaoke bars have group packages and party deals available for larger groups or special events. These packages often include room rental, song credits, food and beverage options, and other perks to simplify party planning and provide value.
Frequently Asked Questions about Karaoke Bars in Calgary
What are the general hours of operation for karaoke bars in Calgary?
Most karaoke bars in Calgary generally operate in the evenings, often opening around 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM and staying open until 1:00 AM or 2:00 AM on weekends. Some locations may have earlier hours on weekdays, or offer daytime karaoke sessions, but evening hours are the most common. It's always a good idea to check the specific bar's website or call ahead to confirm their current operating hours.
Do I need to know how to sing to go to a karaoke bar?
Absolutely not! Karaoke is all about having fun and entertainment, and no one expects professional-level singing. Many patrons are enthusiastic but not particularly skilled. The point is to let loose, enjoy the atmosphere, and participate in the shared experience. Some bars even encourage "shout singers" or those who simply enjoy the energy of the crowd.
How do I choose a song to sing?
Most karaoke bars have extensive song lists, often searchable online or through a computer system at the venue. You can usually browse by artist, song title, or genre. Some bars offer a request system where you can queue songs, while others allow you to choose songs on a first-come, first-served basis. It's a good idea to choose something you’re comfortable with and that you think the crowd will enjoy!
What is the typical cost of karaoke?
The cost of karaoke can vary. Some bars offer free karaoke with a minimum purchase of food or drinks. Others charge a per-song fee, which can range from approximately $3 to $10 per song, depending on the location and popularity. Group rates are sometimes available. Confirm the pricing structure before you commit to singing.
Is it possible to book a private karaoke room?
Many karaoke bars in Calgary offer private karaoke rooms for group bookings. These rooms are ideal for birthday parties, corporate events, or other special occasions. Booking a private room typically involves a minimum spend requirement or a rental fee. Early booking is often necessary, especially for weekend evenings.
What kind of music selection can I expect?
Most karaoke venues strive to offer a diverse music selection to appeal to a wide range of tastes. You can generally expect to find a mix of classic rock, pop, country, R&B, and other popular genres. The best way to know the exact selection is to check the bar’s online song list or ask the staff.
What is the appropriate etiquette for karaoke?
Good karaoke etiquette is essential for a positive experience. It includes being respectful of other singers, avoiding lengthy song requests, allowing others a chance to sing, and cheering on all performers. It’s also polite to keep the volume at a manageable level and avoid blocking the stage.
Are there age restrictions for entering karaoke bars?
Most karaoke bars in Calgary adhere to Alberta's drinking age of 18 years old. Some venues may have stricter policies and require patrons to be 20 years old or older. Always check the bar’s policy regarding age verification before attending, as identification may be required.
Can I bring my own music or backing tracks?
Generally, karaoke bars do not allow patrons to bring their own music or backing tracks. They have licensing agreements for the songs they offer, and introducing external music can violate those agreements. Using the bar’s song list ensures everyone is following the legal and licensing guidelines.
What are some of the most popular karaoke bars in Calgary?
Several karaoke bars in Calgary are well-regarded. Some commonly mentioned include those offering a wide selection of songs, a lively atmosphere, and good sound quality. It's advisable to research current reviews and recommendations online to find the best fit for your preferences and group size. Checking online platforms can help you find a good option.