- Attraction: The Lipstick Lounge
- Location: 1400 Woodland St, Nashville, TN 37206
- Industry: Bar
- Website: https://thelipsticklounge.com/
A bar that truly lives up to its motto—come as you are, no matter what you are.
Since opening its doors in 2002 inside a 125-year-old building, The Lipstick Lounge has carved out a reputation as East Nashville’s ultimate destination for karaoke, community, and genuine acceptance.
This isn’t your typical Nashville honky-tonk. It’s a haven where everyone belongs, from first-time visitors to devoted regulars who’ve been singing here for decades.
The vibrant purple exterior topped with cherry-red accents makes this corner building impossible to miss. Walk through those doors and you’ll discover why Nashville Scene crowned this spot Best Karaoke and Best LGBTQ Bar for 2021, 2022, and 2024.
You’ll also find yourself in one of fewer than 20 remaining lesbian bars across the entire United States—a landmark worth celebrating in its own right.
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Keep Exploring →What Makes The Karaoke Scene Special
The Talent Level: You’re in Music City, after all. The karaoke here attracts genuinely gifted singers who’ll blow you away with their renditions.
You might catch someone nailing a Weezer song or belting out Broadway classics like “The Wizard and I” and “Pink Pony Club.”
The crowd creates a supportive atmosphere where both seasoned performers and nervous first-timers feel encouraged to grab the mic.
Multiple Nights Weekly: Karaoke happens Sunday at 6 p.m. and Monday through Saturday starting at 8 p.m. (though it may be delayed if there’s a special event).
The diversity of the crowd changes from night to night, giving you different vibes depending on when you visit. You can sign up online through their karaoke database, making it easier to queue up your favorite songs.
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Discover MoreKaraoke Contests: Keep an eye out for their karaoke competitions featuring prize giveaways, including $100 gift cards to The Lipstick Lounge. These events ramp up the energy and bring out the most dedicated singers.
The Sound System: The audio quality here stands out. You’ll experience clear sound that makes every performance shine, whether someone’s crushing a power ballad or attempting a tricky rap verse.
Food & Drink That Hits The Spot
Tex-Mex Favorites: The kitchen serves up hearty Tex-Mex fare that’s become a fan favorite. Breakfast burritos come loaded and massive—perfect for weekend brunch.
You’ll find creative menu items like Paw Paw’s Burrito, the Guac Gobbler, and the Brokeback Mountain that show off the kitchen’s playful personality.
Bar Food Done Right: Classic bar snacks get elevated here. The fried mozzarella sticks arrive hot and melty, ideal for sharing with your group. Fried pickles bring that perfect tangy crunch.
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Keep Exploring →Beer-battered mushrooms come with creamy horseradish dip that complements the earthy flavor beautifully. Chicken tenders satisfy those late-night cravings, and the portions are generous across the board.
Brunch Specials: Weekend brunch now takes place at their sister spot Chapstick (Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.), but you can still enjoy brunch-style items.
The 2-for-1 mimosas have developed a loyal following. The Bloody Mary selection impresses with creative variations and bold flavors.
Signature Cocktails & Drinks: The bartenders know how to pour a generous drink. White tea shots have become a house specialty—perfect for pre-karaoke confidence boosting. You can also try their exclusive Lipstick Lounge beer, crafted in collaboration with Half Batch Brewing.
It’s a refreshing lager with great body and taste. Cucumber-lime vodka sodas offer a light, crisp option, while the bartenders can whip up whatever cocktail strikes your fancy.
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Discover MoreThe Vibe & Atmosphere
The Purple Building: The eye-catching purple exterior has become an East Nashville landmark. Outside, you’ll spot the iconic red lip bench—a perfect photo op before heading in. The building’s 125-year history gives it character that newer establishments simply can’t replicate.
Indoor Spaces: Step inside and you’ll find multiple rooms with different atmospheres. The main area buzzes with energy when karaoke gets going.
You’ll discover pool tables upstairs for those wanting a different kind of entertainment. The layout feels spacious enough that you won’t feel crowded, even during busy nights.
Outdoor Patio: Need a breather from the karaoke action?
The patio provides a quieter escape where you can have actual conversations. It’s a sun-soaked spot during the day and transforms into a relaxed hangout space at night.
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Keep Exploring →You’ll find it less congested than the indoor areas, making it perfect for intimate chats or getting some fresh air between songs.
The Upper Lip: This upstairs cigar lounge offers a completely different experience. When you’re ready to wind down, head up for a Cohiba and whiskey. It’s the perfect nightcap spot with a more intimate, sophisticated vibe.
Welcoming Energy: The atmosphere radiates acceptance. This is a space where LGBTQ+ folks, especially women, can feel truly centered and safe. But the welcome extends to everyone—straight allies, tourists, locals, all identities.
The crowd reflects East Nashville’s diversity, and the expectation of mutual respect creates a comfortable environment for all.
Other Things To Know
Pricing & Value: Drink prices hit that sweet spot—not dirt cheap, but definitely reasonable for Nashville. You’re getting quality pours that make the pricing worthwhile.
The generous portions mean you won’t leave hungry, and the bar food won’t break the bank. Overall, expect mid-tier pricing that delivers solid value for what you receive.
Best Times To Visit: Weeknights tend to be more chill, perfect if you want guaranteed karaoke mic time.
Weekends bring bigger crowds and electric energy—ideal for people-watching and soaking up the full Lipstick experience. Early evening on the patio offers a relaxed vibe before the karaoke crowds arrive.
Events & Entertainment: Beyond karaoke, you’ll find trivia nights that flex your brain, live music showcasing talented local artists, and drag performances featuring Nashville’s Best Drag Performer, Miss Kennedy Anne Scott. The calendar stays packed with themed events and special occasions.
Parking Situation: You’ll find parking available in the area, though it can get competitive during peak hours. The East Nashville location makes it accessible without battling downtown traffic.
Everyone Welcome Policy: While this is a lesbian-owned bar, the “Bar For Humans” philosophy means exactly what it says. Straight visitors feel just as welcome.
Families can visit during daytime hours, though the venue is 21+ in the evenings. The inclusive atmosphere isn’t just talk—it’s built into the DNA of this place.
Celebrity Sightings: You might catch a familiar face in the crowd. Past sightings have included celebrities joining in on karaoke fun, adding an extra element of excitement to any given night.
The Lipstick Lounge
📍 1400 Woodland St, Nashville, TN 37206
