A visit to a piano bar can bring a one-of-a-kind experience to your average night out in Los Angeles – they provide good music, big laughs (most piano players also happen to be hilarious) and a chance to let go of your inhibitions. The versatility of these venues means they can be great for everything from an entertaining dinner date to a raucous bachelorette celebration. And because the entertainment at a piano bar is normally shaped for and by the bargoers, each visit will become an experience to remember. Enjoy a Sinatra-like moment while singing along the black and whites at one of these L.A. hotspots.

Howl at the Moon
1000 Universal Studios Blvd.
Universal City, CA 91608
(818) 755-9970
www.howlatthemoon.com

Howl at the Moon wants its guests to do more than just enjoy the show – they want everybody to be part of it. Two dueling pianos play the best tunes of the 70s, 80s and 90s, accompanied at times by guitars and most of the time by the voices of many impromptu singers. Because of its location on Universal Studios Boulevard, the venue has a wide range of patrons––conventioneers, travelers, bachelorette celebrants, and regulars––keeping this bar packed on any given evening. If you’re visiting with a big party, check out Howl at the Moon’s bucket specials––fill one with a hurricane or Bahama mama to share with friends.

Paoli’s Pizzeria & Piano Bar
21020 Ventura Blvd.
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
(818) 883-4136
www.facebook.com/Paolis-Pizzeria-Piano-Bar

Paoli’s Pizzeria has been in business in the San Fernando Valley for 28 years, and it’s well known for three things: its deep dish Chicago style pizza, its relaxed and comfortable environment and its piano entertainment. Stepping into this place will transport you back to the 1950s, thanks to the thick red curtains, checkered tablecloths and the pictures of so many patrons who have stopped by throughout the years. Enjoy a glass of wine on the patio while you wait for your pizza, then head inside for live piano music. If you’re not listening to the pounding of the ivory keys, you’re likely to hear karaoke singers or DJs spinning the tunes.

Piano Bar
6429 Selma Ave.
Hollywood, CA 90028
(323) 466-2750
www.pianobarhollywood.com

Piano Bar boasts a relaxed environment that has not forgotten its modest beginnings as a Hollywood dive bar. This venue prides itself in maintaining a true neighborhood bar feel, despite it’s central location in on of L.A.’s more pretentious areas. In keeping with that theme, there is no cover charge, no dress code and no guest list. What you will find, however, are resident acts playing here weekly, all of which are known for their talent and being among some of the best musicians Hollywood has to offer. Miles Mosley and the West Coast Get Down, Brother Sal and Mike Hayes/Fly Johnson play upbeat tunes regularly, so regardless of what night you come in, you can expect the ambiance to be lively and welcoming. Expect to enjoy the night, feel at home and schedule to return.

Related: Top Five Clubs on the Sunset Strip

Rock the Keys
10134 Foothill Blvd.
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
(909) 987-9322
www.rockthekeys.com

Every night at Rock the Keys sees three different musicians performing in the Inland Empire in front of a lively crowd that doesn’t quit until 2 a.m. No music genre is left untouched here, as the piano players are capable, talented musicians who spend their days as music producers, songwriters and singers. By night, though, they’re at Rock the Keys entertaining fun and rowdy crowds. This is a great place to visit for birthday and bachelor/bachelorette party celebrations or, as Rock the Keys suggests, you can even come to commemorate your divorce or recent layoff! This versatile piano bar and nightclub also hosts a live comedy night on Wednesdays hosted by Bruce Jingles. Early arrival is recommended, as there is no cover charge before 8 p.m.

The Other Side
2538 Hyperion Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90027
(323) 661-0618
www.flyingleapcafe.com

Located in Los Angeles’ Silver Lake area, The Other Side is where to go if you’re looking for a cozy and casual bar to relax in the company of great people and soothing live music. While The Other Side is known as a gay bar, the atmosphere is welcoming to all and the patrons and bar staff are always friendly. You’re likely to find a middle aged crowd here on any given night, singing along to show tunes and sipping on stiff drinks. If you get hungry, head next door to the The Other Side’s sister venue, the Flying Leap Cafe for a gourmet sandwich.

Related: Best Music Clubs in LA

Dena Burroughs is a freelance writer living in Azusa, CA. She is a CSULA graduate with specialties in Creative Writing and Communications. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.