10 Killer Karaoke Spots in New York City

Karaoke is an art. You don't actually have to know how to sing to be good at karaoke. The best karaoke stars are those who know the lyrics to a song so well that it doesn't matter if they can carry a single note. All that matters is that they make you feeeeeeel it—they make you want to sing along, or sit in silence with a grin on your face as they embarrass themselves like assholes. It's performance art in the name of good fun, good music and alcohol. Furthermore, looking like an idiot in front of friends or strangers as you fumble through Sir Mix-a-Lot is the best way to remind yourself how finite life is. Indeed, karaoke is the crucible of life. Those who do not enjoy karaoke probably don't enjoy life. (There's a study about this, somewhere. If there's not, there should be.) Anyway, grab a microphone, crank up the Frank Sinatra and try these choice karaoke spots in New York City. Bonus points for sharing your favorite karaoke songs in the comments section.

RELATED: The 25 Douchiest Bars in NYC Right Now
RELATED: The 50 Coolest Places in New York City Right Now
RELATED: The 10 Best Airport Restaurants in the U.S.

Location: 603 Vanderbilt Ave.
Website: brandedsaloon.com
Private rooms: No

This is a great spot for locals in the Prospect Heights neighborhood in Brooklyn. The decor screams Midnight Cowboy and the ambiance is relaxed and welcoming. It's a good place to start if you're looking for something low key and low pressure.

Location: 73 Atlantic Ave.
Website: monterosbar.com
Private rooms: No

Packed with with nautical knickknacks that speak to its deep history in the shipping and stevedore community, Montero's is a very special place. It feels like you've walked into a scene from On The Waterfront, except Marlon Brando isn't there to sing a version of "My Way." It's a great spot if you're looking for a unique karaoke experience.

Location: 312 7th Ave.
Website: oldcarriageinn.blogspot.com
Private rooms: No

The master of ceremonies on karaoke night at this place usually wears kitten ears. If you're lucky, he has on a tail, too. This place is a dive, but it's spacious, raucous and no-holds-barred. If you want to get wild with your crew, make your way to Old Carriage Inn.

Location: 253 W 55th St.
Website: japas55.com
Private rooms: Yes

For the average midtown hustler who needs to blow off some steam after work, this is your joint. It is also near some of the greatest theaters in the world, which means Broadway stars pop in from time to time to show off their skills.

Location: 54 E 13th St.
Website: nemonyc.com
Private rooms: Yes

Located near Union Square, this is a haunt that attracts NYU students who want to sing Journey and Bon Jovi, but don't let that deter you because they also have Mexican food and private rooms where you can sing Radiohead and Jay-Z.

Location: 161 Lafayette St.
Website: babygrandnyc.com
Private rooms: No

This very small mom-and-pop shop was opened by a sweet couple who wanted to share their love of karaoke with New York City. When I say it's small, I mean it's tiny, which means you really have to bring your A game if you want to hit the stage. The great thing is they have a secret song list that has some coveted tracks from criminally under-appreciated bands. Arrive very early if you have a group of five or more.

Location: 98 Kenmare St.
Website: maisononyc.com
Private rooms: Yes

This spot opened in 2013 and it's pretty much Shangri-La for the hip, sexy set. Make your way there for a delicious sushi dinner at Maison O before going downstairs where you can have a private party in the "classroom," or hang in the lounge. The design channels a modern, glittery version of Tokyo metro life. It sort of looks like a scene from Gaspar Noé's Enter The Void...but family friendly, if you can imagine.

Location: 81 Ave A.
Website: karaokesingsing.com
Private rooms: Yes

This is an East Village staple. It's feels like an authentic karaoke experience without being overwrought or intimidating. There are sake and cocktail specials to take advantage of before you head to your private room. For a novice, this is the best place to lose your karaoke virginity.

Location: 3 W 35 St.
Website: www.radiostarus.com
Private room: Yes

Known for excellent service and an extensive song list, Radio Star karaoke is a spot to take your visiting relatives who want to feel like they are in Missouri because they think New York is overrun with dangerous criminals.

Location: 600 Metropolitan Ave.
Website: alligatorloungebrooklyn.com
Private rooms: No

As if you needed another reason to head to Alligator Lounge, the home of free pizza—they also have karaoke. After you are sufficiently drunk on pizza and beer, get ready to sing some songs in front of smug hipsters.