7bamboo

Been coming here regularly for over 10 years (with the wife) and unfortunately it has taken a bit of a downward turn as of recently. Don't get me wrong, the place has been upgraded and their drink/beer selection has improved, but their new "house rules" are excessive. Go to their website and check out the long "Not Allowed" list before you arrive to avoid being hassled by the tough bouncers. It's likely all these rules were put in place because folks acted out and they are looking to create a safe place, but the club-like bouncers and their dresscode enforcement is extreme (no bringing in water, no caps/headwear). Maybe adjust the rules to "no team baseball caps" like other (more upscale) bars in SJ? It's still a tiny "dive" karaoke bar...which was it's best attribute that attracted a local, casual, crowd. Another issue that has always been frustrating is the bathrooms...WAY too many people pack into this place with access to only two toilets (shared with the restaurant next door). On the positive, the servers, bartenders and KJ are always friendly and fun. We're pretty fond of their other sister spots (Dipsomania Inc) in Japantown that still provide a casual/comfortable atmosphere. We'll continue to support 7 Bamboo as it is still one of the best karaoke spots around...just with a different vibe now.

I recently stumbled upon the 7 Bamboo Lounge and boy, was it an experience! Let me start by saying that the staff deserves an award for their greatness. Hats off to the amazing service! Now, the atmosphere at 7 Bamboo Lounge was like being enveloped in a warm, fuzzy hug from a unicorn. The staff and other guests were so friendly that I half-expected them to break into a synchronized dance routine at any moment. It was like stepping into a parallel universe where everyone had just won the "Most Charming Human" award. It was simultaneously bewildering and delightful. You obviously have to do the Karaoke if you’re there! Let's talk prices. The drinks were reasonably priced, which was a pleasant surprise considering my last encounter with a drink menu involved selling a kidney on the black market. At 7 Bamboo Lounge, I didn't need to mortgage my house just to quench my thirst. Kudos to them for keeping it affordable! Now, I must mention that the lounge itself was a bit on the small side. It was cozy, alright. So cozy that I became more acquainted with the stranger's elbow than my own drink. It felt like a game of Twister, but instead of colored circles on a mat, we were trying to avoid knocking over each other's glasses. It added a whole new dimension to socializing, I must say. All in all, 7 Bamboo Lounge was an experience I won't soon forget. With its great staff, amazing service, friendly environment, average drink prices, and a space that made me question the existence of personal boundaries, it's a place worth checking out. Just make sure you're comfortable with cozy quarters and ready to embrace the magic of a tight-knit community of elbow enthusiasts!

Came here thinking it was one of those private karaoke booths but came out with a pleasant surprise as it is a open stage karaoke lounge. The crowd was lively and people were welcoming and friendly. A place to have a good time with a small group and sing-a-long or take the stage. If you're a bit more on the quiet introverted side, feel free to take a plop down on a seat and enjoy the show, it's all good and laidback. Note, I have not tried their bar!