Shanghai'd Room

Reviewed this place on yelp as well! I come here almost every night and adore it. Truly feels like a second home (with a lot more booze- lol) If you get to meet the bartender Kat you’re in for the best time. I’ve adored her since the minute she started there. I haven’t seen her as much lately- hope that changes. Other than that, this place is truly the best local bar in Orange County.

Meow helped me feel recognized the second I entered this establishment. Her warm & welcoming presence soothed all the karaoke nerves I had prior. Stop in for a friends night out, or a night-cap, it will be worth it!!!

Merisa/Meow is the best bartender most the others are great as well just remembered the one bartenders name at the time of this review. Meow always takes great care of me and does for everyone else as well, she treats me like a friend. The bar is always clean and everyone is so welcoming and restrooms are always clean as well. COME TO THIS BAR FOR KARAOKE EARLY ITS A BLAST!

Love the atmosphere!! We arrived early in the night just for a few beers originally but ended up sticking around for over 3 hours, definitely worth a visit especially if you enjoy karaoke. This bar is super welcoming we loved it!

I only come here during the daily, karaoke nights and, soon, maybe you will too. Shanghai’d Room is a divebar thru and thru. But I can count on one hand how many bars I’ve been to where I felt welcomed on my first night. And this is the ONLY bar I ever made friends. There’s usually one or two bartenders being very attentive — making sure glasses are full, singers are purchasing drinks, and new faces get a turn on the mic. each of them has their own charismatic charm and seductive appeal. I can’t help but call out MeowMeow as my fav tho because you cant help but get drawn to her personality (plus the music/mic balance is always on point all night). She was there my first night and the energy in the room was electric. This is the only karaoke bar where you don’t have the pressure of singing in front of the crowd on stage because there isn’t one. If you’ve ever been in a private karaoke room with friends it’s like that but with 20+ people and ur own bar LOL. If ur flyin solo and like to sing with libations in hand: check em out, sing a song, compliment ur fav singers, and soon you’ll be makin plans to comeback and meetup. Few tips and house rules to emphasize: no food served so you can byof, only one M & one F restroom, only patrons sing so if you don’t drink buy one for someone else (lol), try the WATER OF LIFE, respect every singer and ask them for permission before you grab the second mic, and FTLoveOG don’t pick multiple songs back to back. Even when a group changes singers with duets, singing 4+ songs looks like ur group is hogging the mic. Lets spread the love and elevate the vibes.

There’s good bartenders, there’s great bartenders, and then there is Marissa Meow and Candace Having made my way across this great country of ours, I’ve seen the good the bad and the ugly. And then I stumbled upon The Shanghai’d Room in Huntington Beach, CA My first experience was hard to beat as Meow was our bartender and despite being the solo bartender, she served us all with the utmost attention and made us feel like family! The second visit was equally as exceptional but this time the lovely Candace gave us A plus service! And both Marissa Meow and Candace graced me singing duets with me like the karaoke professionals, and still keeping the bar crowd’s drinks full and the shots flowing!!! I’ve been to many bars I would suggest you visit, but Shanghai’d room is a must for those that live a stiff drink and a karaoke vibe second to none. #PLicious

I always admire a good dive bar. The service was great!! Meow was my bartender, and she was such a delight to have as bartender. I will definitely tell people about this bar and will come back!! Thank you meow for such a wonder night. :)

I love this place! And the bartenders are the heart and soul of this establishment. If it wasn’t for Candace and Marissa, then I wouldn’t come here. They’re the best and most friendliest people you’ll ever meet. And I love kareoke so that makes this place a 10/10

You never quite know what adventure you're walking into when you visit a local legend like Shanghai'd Room, but I'll tell you this--it's always a good time. The minute I stepped in, I was greeted with vintage surf vibes, friendly regulars, and that laid-back Huntington Beach energy that keeps the spirit of the coast alive. The bartenders here? Absolute pros. They poured me a proper AsomBroso Reposado over a single rock, and I sipped it slow while soaking in the atmosphere. it's a place where everyone feels welcome. Great tunes, good conversation, and a little bit of grit in all the right ways. It's got that timeless dive bar magic you just don't find every day. So if you're cruising down PCH and want to end your night with something real, Shanghai'd Room is your stop. Tequila, tunes, and that irreplaceable beach-town soul. -Rick

This karaoke bar is such so much fun and truly a staple for repeat and visiting karaoke tourists! I must say, the service is great by all the girls... but Liz especially, she makes bomb drinks that now have become my staple every time I come in. Her service is top notch and I've seen her handle busy day and night chaos with ease and class, no complaints - just great service, delicious drinks, rave in person reviews and feedback. One of the major reasons to why I am a consistent returning bar patron. She and all the ladies/bartenders deserve the praises and all the raises lol

Liz is gorgeous, but what really makes her stand out is how compassionate and genuine she is. She remembers people, checks in on you throughout the night, and she somehow keeps the whole place running smoothly even when the mic is popping off and the bar is packed. Thanks Liz!! You're the best!!

I've been to Shanghai'd a bunch of times and generally get really good service. Each time I come in and the bartender Liz is working, I have to wait 5 to 10 minutes to get a drink. The bar wasn't crowded she wasn't helping anyone. she just took a long time to come down the bar to ask what I needed. She is always on her phone. I now only order White claws or beer from her because her dinks are horrible. Any time I order shots of water of life they don't take the same as when the other bartenders make it. I've also noticed that she lets people who aren't drinking take up the whole karaoke que. One guys name was on the like 7 times before I could sing back to back sometimes. It was only 14 of us in the bar. I try not to come on the nights she works. I really hope you get a better bartender with a better attitude and drink making skills because unfortunately she's not it.

Karaoke is getting overrun every night by a select few that control the entire setlist EVERY. SINGLE. NIGHT. Might seem hard to police, but sneaking in a song on any night is an easy 75 minute plus endeavor. This isn't me, this is the sentiment among many that don't want to be vocal about this situation. My name is tied to this and I stand by it. Place use to be better from 8pm every night.

I love coming here for karaoke with the girls! It can get busy so sometimes you'll have to wait an hour for your turn but I like the touch screen set up for putting down your songs. The girls working the bar are top notch and get through peoples' orders pretty fast despite it being busy. I lowkey hate when bartenders aren't keeping track of who was there first but nah, these babes are great! Also super friendly. The vibes here are awesome- everyone is just genuinely having a good time. And I feel really good about visiting this bar as a girl bc security is watching everyone like a hawk! Def one of my go to spots

I always have a great time! Great bartenders! Great drinks! Live and fun atmosphere. Karaoke is super fun, even to just watch/listen.

Meow delivers amazing service with unmatched professionalism, even when she's handling the bar solo on a packed night. She's lightning fast, never misses a beat, and somehow still finds time to treat every single customer like a friend. Her energy is infectious, and her kindness is real--you feel it from the first drink to the last goodbye. I LOVE YOU MEOW!!! SHE THE BEST!!! LOOOOOOOOOOVEEEE

Dark dive bar close enough to the beach. Stopped in during one day and a smoking hot chick with dreads served me killer old fashion. Vibes seemed good enough to add it to my rotation of local dives. Went back a few other times and was served by a metal face chick. Cool at first but I went back a few more times looking for the og bartender but only ever saw metal face. She was screaming at what I assume are regulars to buy her shots and was just way too loud for my liking. Giving off trashy greedy vibes and I'm not here for it. When does the dread chick work?? I don't want to go back unless I get the original service that sold me on the place. What a bummer.

Great little bar! I've been coming here for a year. The ladies always remember my drinks, makes me feel special. The new bartender, Mikey, is so F'ing great. I love all of the bartenders, though. Candice, Meow and Liz, always know my drinks and are fantastic for "shooting the shit". The pizza parlor next door, Hanks, will deliver. Great F'ing bar! Karaoke, pizza and cannabis, next door. What more can you ask for?

I questioned coming in & Marissa made it EVERYTHING I'd dreamed up & more! The karaoke Saturday night of our dreams thank you Marissa!!! Xoxoxox

Amazing karaoke night and great drinks with fabulous service. Definitely coming back soon

Meow Meow is the one for this bar!! It takes a special person to be a great bartender and she has it all. I only come to shanghaid for my meow meow. The bar wouldn't be the same without her!!!

If singing is what you enjoy, this is a treasure chest for fun and friendly times. 7 nights a week, warm and inviting people gather to share super songs on all genres. The bar staff is professional, caring and always welcoming. Meow, Kat, April and Liz, combine their very unique personalities nightly, while providing you with a great beverage of your choice! This bar is an extremely friendly place where you can feel safe and secure. Come see for yourself why there is a buzz on the corner of Glencoe and Beach Blvd in Huntington Beach. I'm Stevie B and trust me, come say hello and you'll be very happy you did!

If you want a fun Saturday, this is the place to go! Meow took the best care of us and they have a wonderful happy hour if you're interested. The most popular option is a beer and shot for $7. The music is always great and karaoke starts at 8 if you like a show! Meow the bartender has amazing recommendations and is the nicest. She also makes a great tasting beverage! Very fun and safe.

I went in once before and had Kat take care of me so it had me wanting to come back. But the last time you went she wasn't there and it just wasn't the same. The staff was unfriendly and more like they only wanted to talk to people they already know. She is honestly super energetic and sweet and great personality on top of being able to sell and give great customer service. She's like the bar version of me with people

Absolutely amazing time at karaoke thanks to meow and team. This is exactly how karaoke should be. I was blown away at how incredible this was. Yankee man says tip of the cap. Sooooo fun!

Wow ! Here I go ! lol , I have never written a review before about a " hole in the wall " bar before ! But now is the time ! This place was just a drive by experience at first . Yet now , I find myself going out of my way to venture here ! I live in Irvine which is a boring town when it comes to a " Cool Community Bar " . This place rocks ! Especially when this girl " Meow " is working the bar ! She is a riot ! lol , totally brings life to this place ! She definitely makes you feel at home ! Her attention is on everyone ! Love this girl !

All the bartenders are super rad!! Always felt welcomed when I come here after a long day at work. I love me my meow meow though. I see other reviews about her being not good but she is literally a lot of people's favorite. In the end, all the girls are great and great drinks!!!

Damn this place is dope AF!!! Been here a few times and wow impressed with the professionalism of staff and the decor and quality drinks. Everyday is a party at this place. It starts with the owners Dave and Jen. Got to meet them since they celebrate a lot of events here. HB family who lives in town and cares greatly about this business. The bartenders... Wow they are fantastic! Sam - Jameson fangirl who's amazing at concoctions ask her to make you one next time. Meow- the lady who sings, and can lay down and control any crazy times with a smile. Stephanie- sweetest lady you'll meet. Liz - down to earth and keeps it real. Karaoke no better place in OC. 7 days a week! Everyone who's anyone goes here!

If you haven't been to Shanghaid Room, you're seriously missing out--especially if you haven't had a drink poured by Kat. First off, Kat is hands-down one of the best bartenders I've ever met. She's got this effortless charm, always greets you with a warm smile, and makes you feel like an old friend the moment you sit down. Her dreads? Iconic. Her face? Pretty as hell. Her drinks? Absolute perfection. But beyond the booze, Kat is cheaper than a therapist--and probably better than one too. You walk in with stress, and somehow, between her killer cocktails and genuine conversation, you walk out feeling lighter (and maybe a little tipsy). The Shanghaid Room itself has a great vibe, but let's be real--Kat is the reason people keep coming back. 10/10, highly recommend.

Great little dive bar! Bartender was very good, friendly and accommodating. We got pizza from next-door and she provided plates, napkins, etc.. We were there late in the afternoon so only a few day drinkers there. I understand it gets busier at night and They have karaoke.

Meow is the most hospitable, cheerful bartender...she is just full of positivity...just her presence makes the whole place different... lovee youuu meow! =^.^=

A fun dive bar with a lively, fun atmosphere. Was looking to meet up with a friend on Sat night and this place seemed like the right fit based on her living in HB and me being in Long Beach - it was the great middle spot between the two. The environment is divey, yet comfortable with booths and high table tops. No food and I don't drink, but they were super accommodating and didn't bat a blind eye to the soda waters/limes I got. Service was friendly and personable...the bartender was super nice! There was also karaoke and I think this bar has karaoke 7-days a week? Either way -- definitely a fun atmosphere for a catch up on a late night!

Have passed by this place for years and always wondered how it was.. it's a great little hole in the wall that has great drinks and a great ambiance! If karaoke is your thing, I recommend checking it out as well.. the bartenders are nice, and the drinks are decent priced.

Vibes were very chill, Sam was a great bartender very attentive and friendly. Made sure my drinks were refilled before they were empty!!

A small Kareoke bar that's a WHOLELOTTA fun! Had a good time there. Great drinks & fun cozy vibe. Bartenders were attentive and very nice

NOT service dog friendly or ADA compliant!!! Didn't even make it 2 steps into the bar before being escorted by the bouncer to the door for having a service dog... Zero stars never going back!!!

Got invited, a few nights ago, to a karaoke night with a friend and her date. We came by and the vibes were fun. No one was singing so I wasn't sure if it was karaoke night or not. Then someone told me that we have to pay a machine to sing and get the mic from the bar. I loved the vibes by the end of the night. It got more crowded and more people started singing after me after I hit it off with a couple songs or so... But pay to sing? Yeah, not my kinda karaoke. Sorry. If we're already buying drinks, why should we pay to sing? Lol! Kinda smart on the owner, though. Don't have to hire a DJ or anyone but Blind Donkey or other Karaoke bars are way more fun with DJs and free karaoke. So that's the reason why I had to knock off a star. Sorry guys. Other than that, it was awesome they gave discounts to military, police & fire depts and the bar tender was cool. I might be back. We'll see. :)

2nd stop of our Adventure down beach hitting up all the dive bars! I Always have a good time here. Depending on the day and time it can be busy or slow. Past handful of times I've been here it's been slow. But the bartenders are all so, so nice! Full bar! Parking is easy during the day. But it's harder after dark. The music is always going no matter what time, but not obnoxiously loud so you can hear your conversations. This bar is easy to find. You will find it right off beach with a sign saying "COOL BAR". It isn't in the nicest part of HB. But it's fun. This place holds a special place in my heart. When I first moved to HB 9yrs ago I met a friend here for late drinks. He and I met up here a few times over the months. Until he became a famous choreographer and left HB in his dust haha! But him introducing me to this bar has always given me smiles. Always nice to watch your friends grow and become amazing. But also the bartenders are always so lovely. This is definitely a local bar. But everyone is nice. Never seen or heard of any issues here. Go and have fun and enjoy the cheap drinks!

This place is fucking legit. I came here and met some random off hinge and completely got catfished. I did get to enjoy 3 coors lites before I realized I was being bamboozled/hoodwinked by this pretender I met off line. I just closed out and ghosted but definitely a dope spot. Bartender was fire too.

My sis and I wanted to do karaoke we googled and saw Shanghai's Room. Kat served us and while I normally don't drink she made me the sweetest drink. That I loved. She kept checking on us all night and made it a great experience. Will definitely go back!!!

Went in with my partner yesterday evening to grab a quick bite and just enjoy the atmosphere as we per usually do. Kat has helped us before and I've noticed in the past how much personality and attention she gives the guests. From here on out we say we only prefer Kat, as we've noticed the same energy doesn't come from all the employees there, unfortunately. If you want great service, a lovely person to serve you, i'd go here and ask for Kat

I came to Shanghi'd for my 21st birthday not expecting much but Kat took care of me and my friends and made sure we had the best experience. Super friendly sweet and amazing service! I would definitely return for her!

Mic hogs. It'll take you three hours to get a song because two of the bartenders friends sing back to back for hours.

This place kicks ass. I went for my SIL's 52nd birthday and had so much fun! The bartender is one smoking cool and beautiful Asian-American goddess with a lot of piercings and great style who made drinks that tasted like fine art! The place appears to be a "dive bar" however, it's clean and super well-run! The bathrooms were kept up and clean too! I will be going back!!!

So dark you cannot tell how dirty it actually is. Dirty beer and shot glasses. It seems like the Bartenders think they are the coolest bartenders around and they're not very friendly or good looking. Seen people do coke in the parking lot which was gross! Beers are fairly priced. Avoid this trashy spot if you find another karaoke bar.

One of my favorite spots here in OC! The bartenders are so sweet and make sure you're well taken care of. Plus the drinks are awesome! Really sick vibe here, especially during karaoke. Definitely check it out when you're in HB!

We came in on karaoke night. We tried to participate and they didn't have 99% of top karaoke songs available. We put in $10 to reserve our $1 spot but the machine used all the dollars and we couldn't get a refund. The bartender couldn't do anything about it either. The bartender was serving great drinks and attentive otherwise. The wait time was 75 min and they didn't have classics like anything notable from Dolly Parton, Blake Shelton, Gwen Stefani, Britney Spears, I didn't know most of the songs they had available. It's the most obscure karaoke bar I've ever been to as far as song choices and I came here from Idaho. Also, I went to the bathroom and there's weird jail like bars with a screen that is see through by the toilet which I didn't enjoy and seemed odd. ***EDITED AFTER OWNER'S RESPONSE TO NOTE:*** David, I appreciate your response. We didn't have $1 bills so we put in a $10 thinking the machine would give us change back. It did credit us 10 songs but the wait to do 1 song was 73 minutes and it was already 1 am and last call. You did have Blake Shelton, Britney Spears and Gwen Stefani but it was songs of theirs I've never heard them sing ever. It's not their top hits. It's obscure songs. Songs we searched for that you didn't have: -Islands in The Stream -Meant to Be by Bebe Rhexa -Toxic by Britney Spears -Happy Anywhere by Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani -Nobody But You by Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani -Songs from Moana Thank you for responding about my bathroom inquiry. That made me feel better. I've upped my review to 3 stars because overall we did have a good time but still bummed the machine ate our money and we couldn't find 1 song we knew let alone 10 and we would have been there til 9 am.

Came through on another day... I gotta say the new system really made a difference! It's allowed for a much more streamlined experience. The bartenders really go above and beyond to work their roles in the establishment. Nothing but good vibes from the people that come through. Full stop: best karaoke in the OC.

I want to preface this review with saying that Meow and Cat are wonderful bartenders and I had many fun nights here. Unfortunately what happened to me last week on December 18, 2024 was unacceptable and I won't be coming back. I waited over 45 minutes for my song to come on karaoke. My song finally came on but the person who had the mic before me refused to give me the mic and started singing my song. She (Carmella) is a regular and she has done this to multiple people either stealing their song that they picked and waited for or saying "skip, skip" before the person has a chance to get to the mic. In short, she is a karaoke hog. Last week on this particular night, I was buzzed enough and confident to stand up for myself to grab it. In hindsight, this was a bad decision and I probably should have just picked another song and asked Meow to bump me up because Carmella stole my song but I didn't think of it at the time. Simply thinking that's the song I waited 45 minutes for. I happily would have sang it with her if she wanted the second mic, instead she choked me. I was dragged outside. Ofcourse when I gained back my consciousness I wanted to go back inside and tell her off. Btw my wallet and phone were still inside but Byron the bouncer wouldn't let me inside not even to sign my own tab. I understand he was doing his job to not let me fight back or whatever- I'm not a fighter but I don't understand why Carmella got to steal my song and attack me while I was the one punished and 86ed over it. Just because she's a regular, she gets away with this nonsense. If you don't believe me, just check the camera's of that night. It was before midnight. When Byron threatened to call the police on me to get me to leave, I wish I had waited for them to come. Would have loved to press charges on the girl that attacked me for grabbing the mic when it was my turn. I have a feeling you will say you witnessed me starting it or something like that to discredit me but if you look at the other 1 star to 3 star reviews there's quite a few people with similar experiences.

Love Shanghai'd room!! Been coming for a good few months and can't complain!!! Awesome atmosphere and bartenders!! Shout out to Meow!!! Love that chick!!!!!!!!!

Great vibes. Karaoke is always live. Bartenders are the best in the bizz. There was also Lancelot Link Secret Chimp playing on the corner tv the entire night which was a huge plus

This is hands down my favorite place in California. The bar just has a cozy welcome feeling, the bartenders are amazing and the regulars just make this place feel like home. They have a jukebox you pick your songs on, 2 wireless mics and a big screen that plays the songs. SO much fun! It gets busy so get your songs in quick! Super fun place, 10/10 would recommend going here to get your sing on!

Love this place. Started coming when I moved to HB nearly 3 years ago and the people both bartenders and patrons alike have become lifelong friends! Can't beat feeling like you're walking onto the set of Cheers every time you come in.

I've sporadically gone to this bar over the past 15 years (even when it had other names) but I made those times few and far between and only as a last resort. The staff was meh so it was more of a hassle than fun. That all changed when I came in and was served by Kat. The moment you walk in she greets you like an old friend and comes off as genuinely excited to see you. If you don't quite know what you want, she's more than happy to give you recommendations from asking what else you like. Her knowledge and skill is unsurpassed, and on top of that she has amazing communication skills. She doesn't just serve drinks- she serves an experience at every visit. As someone also in customer service it's recognized and quite honestly refreshing to see - especially in a place that otherwise doesn't do much to attract me to it. Any time I go I always check the bars Instagram just to make sure she's the one working because if she's not- I'd rather not.

Came to Shanghai for the first time so much fun! Meow made our night! She's so energetic! We'll definitely come back to see her!

Always a great place to grab drinks. They have a kick ass crew and they always have something going on there. When I was in college, I would meet friends there for trivia night. One bartender that comes to mind is Marissa. Cool and friend gal. Knows her drinks and history of alcohol.

Just a very interesting small place with high prices. not worth it. Was kinda boring tbh.