The Parlour (El Cortez, 385-5200)Better known for classic cocktails and the fedora-wearing ’40s, the Parlour also offers late-night karaoke three times per week. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m., the red velvet curtains surrounding the bar close, so those brave enough can take the stage. Shutting the casino out and the comfy leather chairs and their occupants in makes for a more intimate karaoke experience—no one wants to croon lounge-singer style to a casino full of gawking gamblers. The benefits of singing at the house that Bugsy bought are numerous, but near the top are delicious small plates like barbecue chicken sliders, fierce cocktails like the citrusy Sidecar, knowledgeable bartenders who don’t call themselves “mixologists” and an atmosphere that says “speakeasy,” not “scream Poison.”
Q Studio (3400 S. Jones Blvd. #11, 823-1448) Karaoke Q is located in the center of a busy shopping center, and anyone who has lived in Las Vegas for more than a day knows that the best of everything—from Thai food to haircuts—is likely to be found in a strip mall. With graffiti-style wall décor and two-for-one drink specials, Q is a great option for private karaoke parties. For around $20 an hour, you can grab a few friends and enjoy this high-tech alternative: flatscreen TVs and dual mics, minus the awkwardness of busting out your best Cher in front of a crowd of strangers. Plus, Q offers songs in lots of other languages and push-button food and drink service (signature booze soju is a clear alcoholic concoction that comes in lip-smacking flavors like mango). Whatever Q stands for, it’s hard to think of a better place to play rock star.
E-String (2031 W. Sunset Road, 437-8764) It’s hard to find a laid-back bar that also has karaoke most nights. Enter Henderson’s E-String, a neighborhood setting with a relaxed atmosphere. If the name doesn’t make the bar’s focus apparent, the music memorabilia and guitars lining the walls should. Live music events and karaoke are definitely the focus, though the pizza or wings will do in a pinch. Starting at 8 p.m. most nights, E-String’s karaoke is a great option to break up the mid-week monotony and still get home in time to catch your beauty sleep. After all, you’re not just a pretty singing voice.
