Planet Rose

Planet Rose

Owner

This karaoke hideaway has that small, local charm to it, even though the yards of animal-print upholstery doesn't exactly scream down to earth. Speaking of screaming, the karaoke scene at Planet Rose is laidback, fun, and all-inclusive, even the bartenders get involved. The brave, or more likely, drunk, performers don't even have to leave their barstool, the bartender will bring the wireless mic to the singer. (Talk about the diva treatment.) If bartender Missy is around she'll make you her signature flaming shot, which is appropriately called "Missy Likes to Set Things on Fire." Planet Rose is all around a fun place to hang out with friends or host a party. By the end of the night, the leopard print will grow on you, as will the guy singing show tunes. Then again, that's probably just the liquor speaking. - Shecky's Review

Karen Hudes

Citysearch

The Scene
Past the steel-doored exterior displaying a large red velvet rose, a sense of departure sinks in. It could be the bar's windowless design and lair of zebra-print couches, the blond belting out "Physical" on the mic or just a profusion of rabbit ears (if Scotty the Blue Bunny's in the house). Lyric monitors keep eyes aimed high, though the promise of fleeting inhibitions and impending group bonding is palpable.

The Draw
Guests tend to gather in the later hours, since karaoke usually works best with a slightly drunk clientele. (Mixed drinks are very reasonably priced.) Early in the night, the sparsely populated room has an air of Berlin decadence fused with Tokyo pop and American cheese. Hipsterish East Village patrons show their game side on the mobile microphone, boosted by the participation of rousing bartenders.