Karaoke is an activity where amateur performers can sign along to recorded music with the help of lyrics on a video screen. Created in Japan, it is popular worldwide and karaoke bars are found in cities all over the United States. Karaoke bars provide year-round entertainment in Minnesota. Major cities in the "Land of 10,000 Lakes" are home to karaoke bars with a variety of options for a fun night on the town.
Northeast Minneapolis' Vegas Lounge hosts karaoke events five nights a week. The neighborhood bar received rave reviews for its entertainment from local publications, including "Best Karaoke Bar" in 2010 from Metromix Twin Cities. While the bar's decor gives it the feel of a dark dive, locals love the ambiance and the karaoke nights with extensive song books and friendly atmosphere.
Vegas Lounge
965 Central Ave. N.E.
Minneapolis, MN 55413
612-378-1873
vegasloungemn.com
South of St. Paul is the town of Eagan, home to a restaurant that hosts a popular karaoke night. After Hours DoReMi Karaoke takes place at Hoban Korean Restaurant. The restaurant attracts night owls since it is open until 4 a.m. Karaoke begins at 12 noon and groups can enjoy the activity in themed rooms complete with the latest equipment, flat screens for video and lyrics and Italian leather couches. Hoban's songbooks feature songs in several languages, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese and Spanish. The restaurant offers a full menu. DoReMi Karaoke was a runner-up for Metromix Twin Cities' 2010 "Best Karoke Bar."
Hoban Korean Restaurant
1989 Silver Bell Rd.
Eagan, MN 55122
651-688-3447
hobanrestaurant.com
The Bolt Underground in downtown Minneapolis is a club catering to the city's gay community. Of its many theme nights, it hosts a Wednesday night karaoke event from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Bolt's "Idol Karaoke" features guest hosts, drinks and food specials. Bolt's services are provided by karaoke specialists Mia Dorr's Premier Entertainment.
The Eagle
513 Washington Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55415
612-338-0896
minneapoliseagle.com
T.J. Hooligans, located in the town of Prior Lake, offers karaoke five nights a week in a pub atmosphere. Patrons can order from the establishment's full menu while watching the entertainment on the stage. An emcee hosts the karaoke festivities. T.J. Hooligans is open until 1 a.m. on weeknights and 2 a.m. on the weekends.
T.J. Hooligans
16731 Highway 13 South
Prior Lake, MN 55372
952-447-6668
tjhooligans.com
