EXPLORE: Karaoke hot spots

Grab a drink and grab the mic, there are plenty of places around the metro to get your karaoke fix.
By Cyote Williams

AJ’S ON EAST COURT
419 E. Court Ave., Des Moines
www.ajsbar.com
AJ’s on East Court prides itself on being Des Moines’ destination for karaoke. Every night at this bar gives patrons the chance to unleash their inner superstar… or to embarrass themselves and their friends. Either way, check the judgments at the door, grab the mic and a drink, and enjoy.

FAZIO’S UNIVERSITY TAP
7500 University Blvd., Suite I, Clive
www.facebook.com/UniversityTap
Saturday nights are for karaoke at Fazio’s University Tap. The menu at this bar does rotate but features favorites such as the bacon cheddar and black cherry chipotle burger and serves breakfast during its Sunday Fundays and more.

14TH STREET TAVERN
3418 E. 14th St., Des Moines
www.facebook.com/14thstreettavern
Every Thursday night is reserved for karaoke at 14th Street Tavern. You’ll find rotating drink specials and tasty food options like nachos, tacos and pizzas.

JEANNIE’S BOTTLE
3839 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines
www.facebook.com/jeanniesbottle1
A quick trip to Jeannie’s Bottle’s Facebook page reveals a microphone as the profile picture, and for good reason. Check the page for food and drink specials. Karaoke nights are Wednesday through Saturday at 9 p.m., except for Fridays and Saturdays, which start at 7 p.m.

CATTOR’S ON GRAND
1306 Grand Ave., West Des Moines
www.facebook.com/Cattoors
Karaoke nights at this West Des Moines establishment typically run from 8-12:30 p.m. They have an impressive happy hour, host a mug night, and rotate drink specials that keep your wallet happy when you climb the stage to start singing.

THE DUCKTAIL LOUNGE
1809 86th St., Clive
www.theducktailloungedsm.com
Head over to “The Duck” on Saturdays in Clive if you’re looking to participate in their karaoke night. The inside is cozy, but don’t be afraid to step onto the patio and enjoy your favorite cigar during your visit.

FINN’S PUB
7020 Douglas Ave., Des Moines
www.facebook.com/micfinns
Finn’s Pub is becoming a favorite among Des Moines karaoke enthusiasts. This Irish-themed bar is consistently hosting karaoke nights, typically from 8 p.m. till the bar closes.

THE RIDGEMONT
7460 Hickman Road, Windsor Heights
www.facebook.com/theridgemont
The Ridgemont recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and hosts karaoke nights every Tuesday night starting at 8 p.m. Happy hour specials at this bar run from 2-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and a couple of pool tables will keep everyone happy on a night out.

SMOKING GOAT PUB
3015 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines
www.smokinggoatdesmoinesia.com
From 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. is karaoke night at the Smoking Goat Pub. This bar has the feel of your classic neighborhood sports bar, all while providing a fun outing with your friends singing and enjoying bar food and drink specials all night long.

300 CRAFT AND ROOFTOP
300 W. Martin Luther King Jr Parkway, Des Moines
www.300craftandrooftop.com
If you want one of the area’s best views of the Des Moines skyline while enjoying a night of karaoke, 300 Craft and Rooftop has you covered. Every Sunday, the establishment hosts Party! Party! Live Band Karaoke! with happy hour specials running all day.