The best karaoke bars in Melbourne

You might think you know what to expect from a night out at the karaoke bar, but trust us when we say Ocean 12 is in a league of its own. Yes, belting out some beloved tunes is definitely a key part of visiting this luxe spot, but that’s only the beginning. From the second you ascend to level three of the Crown Entertainment Complex and enter Ocean 12’s flashy foyer, you’ll be dazzled by this secret late-night hideaway.

Time Out tip: want to loosen up pre-karaoke sesh? Do a round at colourful mini golf spot Holey Moley (with a cocktail in hand) to get the good vibes going first. 

Just a couple of minutes down the street from the Old Melbourne Gaol is KBOX Karaoke, the perfect setting for a hilariously drunken night. It has everything a good karaoke venue should have: an extensive collection of hits, gleaming disco balls and plenty of booze to get you in the singing mood. If you're looking for a late-night spot for kick-ons, KBOX is open until 2am on Sundays to Thursdays and until 3.30am on Fridays and Saturdays. 

Time Out tip: if you're planning ahead, there's a feature on the KBOX website that allows you to create a playlist that links to your booking, so you don't have to waste precious singing time searching the 500,000 song choices! 

This spot tucked away down a laneway was previously a part of modern pan-asian restaurant Yum Sing House, but now has a fresh new look and name. Inspired by Hong Kong and the many karaoke bars dotted throughout the city, this venue sits above the restaurant, with a bar and four private karaoke rooms. Each room is themed around neighbourhoods and nightlife spots in Hong Kong. You can order from a menu of tasty snacks like BBQ pork buns, crispy chicken bites or wagyu loaded fries, and wash it down with one of their creative signature cocktails, like a matcha sour or a pandan pina colada. 

Time Out tip: if you're looking for a cheap and cheerful spot for a more substantial feed beforehand, nearby Mamak serves up hearty Malaysian fare. 

Have you ever thought, “I’d really like to sing Disney classics while chomping on duck hearts with some craft beer”? Well, you’re in luck. Heroes is a five-level venue on Bourke Street, and it has all your sing-along, Southeast Asian street food and rooftop cocktail needs covered. They've got four private karaoke rooms, but the open mic-style karaoke lounge is there for those with no shame. 

Time Out tip: this venue offers group bookings for 'break up parties', because arguably the best way to get over heartbreak is belting out bangers, with pre-made playlists and drinks packages. 

Make your evening an all-rounder by combining bowling with karaoke. Knock down some pins, make a pit stop at the bar, then go a bit of Katy Perry in a (thankfully) private room. Eager beavers can download the song catalogue in advance to plan the setlist for the night. Karaoke is priced per hour (from $100 p/h) instead of per person, so the more the merrier. 

Time Out tip: if you're in the mood for to hit the d-floor after karaoke, Music Room is just around the corner and will have beats pumping that are perfect for a boogie. 

It’s a sink or swim policy at this karaoke bar on Russell Street. Dozens of punters take to the mic each night to tackle their favourite karaoke hits in front of complete strangers. Sound a little nerve-racking? Not to worry, there is plenty of alcohol to calm your nerves, and the karaoke is free. Don't forget to line your stomach with some Japanese finger foods beforehand.

Time Out tip: this spot can be super popular so if you're keen to sing, get down there early to put your name on the karaoke list! 

Planning a Christmas party, after-work celebration or a big night out? PartyWorld, which is conveniently located in Melbourne Central, offers 44 rooms in a variety of sizes to suit every group or budget. Enjoy a vast selection of premium local and imported spirits, beers and wines as well as authentic regional Chinese cuisine. Plus, the staff will bring your food and drinks to you so that you never have to leave the rooms and the good times never stop.

Time Out tip: this spot does a happy hour deal with an offer for $39 per person for a three hour karaoke session between 7-10pm, including food and drinks! 

This groovy '70s-themed karaoke bar in Crown Casino comes from the fun-loving folks behind B Lucky and Sons and Archie Brothers. There are colourful mirrors, disco balls (of course), bright paint and flower power everywhere you look – and even a disco-themed punch served in a mirrorball. Each of the ten karaoke rooms has its own theme, plus a prop box filled with tambourines, maracas and feather boas. Food options include pizza, burgers, tacos and fries. Karaoke costs $100-$150 per room.

Time Out tip: the venue has a super cool aesthetic, so be prepared to take plenty of pics!