The Cat's Meow

The Cat's Meow is the most famous karaoke bar in New Orleans, and probably one of the most famous in the world. Located at 701 Bourbon Street, the bar is a fine example of the 1820's architecture that dominates the famous tourist district of the city. The bar features balconies that overlook the street outside (a must for Mardi Gras of course) as well as a patio courtyard featuring a daiquiri machine.

The bar features the usual drink specials, and prides itself on the house specialty, their version of the Hurricane. Giant cocktails are the order of the day, so be sure to pace yourself if you know you have trouble with powerful drinks. A small dance floor is available, although dancing is essentially encouraged throughout the club based on personal ability and courage. No one has ever been able to determine any sort of dress code, so come as you are.

The major attraction at the Cat's Meow is of course the karaoke system. Featuring hundreds of songs, the system uses live mixing and disc jockeys to enhance the atmosphere and turn even the most tone-deaf singer into a star. The emcees will occasionally join in, or perform their own songs to get the crowd going if need be - but the crowd at the Cat's Meow rarely needs much encouragement. The place is regularly packed, so claustrophobes need not apply; anyone who's looking for a high-energy karaoke bar, however, will feel right at home here.