Piano Bars of Oklahoma City: An Insider's Guide

Oklahoma City, a bustling metropolis known for its cowboy culture and capitol complex, is also home to a vibrant nightlife that offers a variety of entertainment options. Among these, the city's piano bars stand out as unique venues where music and camaraderie create an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a local looking for a new spot to unwind or a visitor eager to soak in the city's culture, the piano bars of Oklahoma City promise a night of fun, music, and great company.

The Magic of Piano Bars

Piano bars have a long history, tracing their roots back to the early 20th century. They started as venues where patrons could enjoy a drink while listening to live music, often provided by a solitary pianist. Over time, these establishments have evolved, with many adding a twist to the traditional setup - the dueling piano concept. In a dueling piano bar, two pianists typically play together, often incorporating humor and audience interaction into their performance. This unique blend of music and entertainment is what makes piano bars so appealing.

In Oklahoma City, this tradition of piano bars continues, offering both locals and tourists a unique way to enjoy their evenings. The city's piano bars are known for their lively atmosphere, talented musicians, and friendly staff. Whether you're a fan of classic rock, pop, or country music, you'll find a piano bar in Oklahoma City that suits your musical taste.

Top Piano Bars in Oklahoma City

If you are looking for a place to enjoy some live music, cocktails and good vibes, you might want to check out some of the piano bars in Oklahoma City. Piano bars are venues where pianists or dueling pianists play songs requested by the audience, often with some comedy and interaction. They are a great way to have fun, sing along and relax with your friends or date. Here are some of the best piano bars in Oklahoma City that you should visit:

1. Red Piano Lounge

This elegant lounge offers a classy and cozy atmosphere with a red computerized piano that plays tunes from various genres. You can also enjoy a variety of drinks and snacks from their menu, or order from the hotel’s restaurant.

The Red Piano Lounge is located at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel, at 1 Park Ave, Oklahoma City, OK, 73102. It is open every day from 4 pm to 10 pm, and you can find more information on their website. 

2. Michael Murphy’s Dueling Piano Bar

This is one of the most popular and lively piano bars in Bricktown, where you can watch two or three pianists battle it out on stage with their musical skills and humor. They play a wide range of songs from different eras and genres, and you can request your favorites or roast your friends. They also have a full bar, food menu and dance floor for you to enjoy.

Michael Murphy’s Dueling Piano Bar is located at 119 E California Ave, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104. It is open Thursday to Saturday from 8 pm to 2 am, and you can find more information on their website. 

3. JJ’s Alley

This is a dive bar and music venue that features live acoustic music every night, including piano players on some nights. You can also play pool, darts or video games, or enjoy their cheap drinks and food specials.

JJ’s Alley is located at 212 E Sheridan Ave, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104. It is open every day from 11 am to 2 am, and you can find more information on their website.

4. The Manhattan OKC

This is a modern American restaurant and cocktail bar that offers live piano music on some nights, along with a variety of dishes and drinks. You can also enjoy their happy hour specials, brunch menu and rooftop patio.

The Manhattan OKC is located at 210 Park Ave #150, Oklahoma City, OK, 73102. It is open Monday to Thursday from 11 am to 10 pm, Friday from 11 am to 11 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 11 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 9 pm, and you can find more information on their website.

5. Apothecary 39

This is a gay bar that features a relaxed piano bar feel with a vintage decor and a friendly staff. You can also enjoy their signature cocktails, craft beers and wine selection, or try their famous Ingrid’s sandwich.

Apothecary 39 is located at 2125 NW 39th St, Oklahoma City, OK, 73112. It is open Monday to Saturday from 4 pm to 2 am and Sunday from noon to midnight.

6. Stooges Comedy Club & Piano Bar

This is a comedy club and piano bar that features live comedy shows and dueling pianos on some nights. You can also enjoy their full bar service, food menu and private events.

Stooges Comedy Club & Piano Bar is located in Bricktown, but their website is currently under construction. You can find more information on their Facebook page.

7. Edna’s

This is a dive bar that is famous for its signature drink, the Lunchbox, which consists of Coors Light, orange juice and amaretto. They also have live piano music on some nights, along with karaoke, trivia and bingo.

Edna’s is located at 5137 N. Classen Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73118. It is open every day from 10 am to 2 am, and you can find more information on their website.

8. Tramps

This is another gay bar that features strong drinks, friendly staff and live piano music on some nights. You can also play pool, video games or watch sports on their TVs.

Tramps is located at 2201 NW 39th St, Oklahoma City, OK, 73112. It is open every day from noon to 2 am.

What to Expect in an Oklahoma City Piano Bar

When you step into a piano bar in Oklahoma City, you can expect an evening filled with music, laughter, and a sense of community. The musicians are not just performers; they are entertainers who engage with the audience, taking song requests and often inviting patrons to sing along. It's not uncommon to see the entire bar join in on a popular song, creating a shared experience that's both fun and memorable.

The atmosphere in these bars is friendly and relaxed. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, you'll be welcomed with open arms. Many of these bars also serve food, so you can enjoy a meal while you listen to the music. And of course, there's the bar itself, offering a variety of drinks to enjoy throughout the evening.

Why Oklahoma City is a Great Destination for Piano Bar Enthusiasts

Oklahoma City's music scene is diverse and vibrant, with live music being a significant part of the city's culture. The city's piano bars fit perfectly into this scene, offering a unique form of live entertainment that's enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned piano bar enthusiast or new to the concept, Oklahoma City's piano bars offer an experience that's both unique and enjoyable.

The Piano Bar Experience: More Than Just Music

What sets piano bars apart from other music venues is the unique experience they offer. When you visit one of the best piano bars, you're not just there to listen to music. You're there to be part of the show.

In a piano bar, the line between performers and audience is blurred. Musicians engage with the audience, taking song requests and encouraging sing-alongs. It's this interactive element that makes a night out at a piano bar such a unique and memorable experience.

But it's not just about the music. Many piano bars also offer a great selection of food and drinks. Whether you're a fan of craft cocktails, fine wines, or local beers, you'll find something to enjoy at Oklahoma City's piano bars. And with many venues offering a full food menu, you can make a whole night of it.

Conclusion: The Unforgettable Charm of Oklahoma City's Piano Bars

Whether you're a local or a visitor, a night out at one of Oklahoma City's piano bars is an experience not to be missed. These venues offer a unique blend of live music, delicious food and drinks, and a lively atmosphere. But more than that, they offer a sense of community and camaraderie that's hard to find elsewhere.

So next time you're in Oklahoma City, why not check out one of its piano bars? Whether you're a fan of live music, looking for a fun night out, or simply want to experience a unique part of the city's nightlife, you're sure to have a great time. After all, there's nothing quite like the sound of live piano music to make a night out truly unforgettable.

And that's a wrap on our journey through the vibrant piano bars of Oklahoma City. From the high-energy dueling pianos of Michael Murphy's to the sophisticated sounds of the Red Piano Lounge, there's a piano bar in this city to suit every taste. So here's to good music, great company, and unforgettable nights. Cheers!