Chennai boasts rhythmic beats and melodic tunes emanating from various venues that offer live music experiences. Our curated list of live music venues will give you a release from the usual club DJs and party anthems. These venues offer amazing ambiences that elevate the music experience, making them a great choice for those looking to take a break from partying. Some have booze as well. Whether you're a music enthusiast or want to enjoy good food and drinks, this list has you covered. Each venue offers a unique atmosphere and showcases local and national talent, making it a must-visit for live music lovers. So, take a break from the usual and vibe to the fantastic music scene that Chennai has to offer!
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Bay 146
In the popular Savera Hotel in Mylapore, Bay 146 emerges as a top-tier pub, offering an unparalleled live music experience in the city. With performances featuring both promising local bands and occasional appearances by renowned musical acts, the venue is a dynamic hub for music enthusiasts. Boasting a vibrant ambience and reasonably priced drinks, Bay 146 stands out as a great place to immerse yourself in diverse musical genres throughout the week. Beyond its reputation as a live music hotspot, the pub's food complements the overall experience, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable blend of music, atmosphere, and tasty food.
Radio Room
Get ready for an amazing Thursday night at the Radio Room! As the name suggests, this place is all about music. A trendy spot is all with live music, hosting bands playing cool covers from different eras and genres. The place is a music lover's dream, with iconic album covers on the walls, retro microphone-shaped lamps, and a bar area decked out with whitewashed radios. Join the fun at 9 PM onwards every Thursday for a fantastic evening. It's the perfect place for music enthusiasts and those looking to spice up their night with an amazing range of food and drinks!
Unwind Centre
Unlike typical restobars that commonly showcase popular live music, the Unwind Centre stands out as a community-centered organization dedicated to supporting musicians and music education since 1998. They feature bands from all over the country, delivering some of the finest live music experiences. With more than 600 gigs hosted to date, they have become a hub for music enthusiasts and a favourite among Chennaiites.
Off The Record
Experience unforgettable live music at Off The Record, with a week full of live music. On Thursday nights, immerse yourself in a musical journey with Unplugged Tamil Night promising exquisite music and an extraordinary atmosphere, as everyone joins in to sing along to their favourite Tamil tunes. Additionally, they offer live music during Sunday brunches and host Bollywood live music nights on Wednesdays. Apart from that they host bands and several other exceptionally talented singers that turn up the crowd. It's a perfect blend of diverse musical experiences throughout the week!
BTL
BTL (Between The Legs) has created quite a buzz among Chennaiites. Pioneering as the first-ever Live Music Bar in Chennai, it sets itself apart by seamlessly blending luxurious experiences with affordability. This innovative resto-bar is designed to captivate people offering a unique trifecta of fine Live Music performances, delicious food, and expertly crafted cocktails—all at pocket-friendly prices. At BTL, live music takes centre stage, the performances range from party to slow songs. The eclectic ambience is a visual feast, featuring neon lights that illuminate the space and walls adorned with captivating murals. The artsy and cosy setting invites guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant energy of the music while savouring scrumptious food options and sipping on some custom-curated cocktails.
Moon and Sixpence
This Irish-inspired bar located in Guindy checks all the right boxes when it comes to being a great live music destination in addition to offering a menu featuring classic cocktails and European cuisine. They have a spacious venue featuring quirky decor and a great beer menu. They support local music acts and have a great roster of in-house and regular DJs, the pub’s live music scene also includes diverse artists, bands and musicians across several genres. They offer acoustic, pop, alternative rock and DJ music over the week. Mostly on Fridays, Saturdays and Wednesdays. With a variety of music genres offered this bar provides ample reasons to make it a weekly destination for live music enthusiasts.
Ph Cafe
Ph Cafe, nestled in the heart of Egmore, is a unique haven where food and music converge, offering a delightful culinary experience. The cafe serves as the birthplace for the music community 'On The Streets' and is housed in a colonial British-era building adorned with captivating art pieces. Ph Cafe offers a distinctive ambience that sets it apart. The venue boasts a beautiful garden providing a scenic backdrop along with a stage that hosts enthusiastic live indie bands. The outdoor seating in the garden is ideal for the pleasant Madras evenings and also invites you to bring your furry companions along with you for a memorable time while listening to some tunes. The cafe creates a vibrant atmosphere where you can enjoy tasty food, and immerse yourselves in the best of live musical experiences.
Black Orchid
Situated in the upscale Boat Club area, Black Orchid stands as one of Chennai's premier standalone resto-bars, marking its presence among the city's chic neighborhoods. This establishment regularly features a diverse range of bands, spanning genres like pop, rock, and indie throughout the week. It serves as an ideal destination for those seeking a must-visit hangout spot, offering a combination of top-notch food, beverages, and live music.