An open mic is a space where upcoming comics or aspirants of the art can come try their luck in the spotlight. It’s essential to nurture the grassroots of any performance arts and comedy open mics do just that for stand-up comedians. Some of these venues are curated open mics too.

If you are looking to make evening plans that wash your worries away for a few hours, I would recommend a comedy open mic. When compared to a comedy show, an open mic is lighter on the ear, cheaper to book and just overall a fun experience. The city has more than one every week, but I’ve decided to pen down the go-to list to make it easy for you to pick from.

MONDAY: Zostel, Indiranagar

Monday evenings at Zostel, the backpacker hostel franchise, hosts the perfect laughter riot to wash off your Monday blues. The open mic held at the friendly game room is open to both outsiders and guests of the hostels. The mix-n-match of national cultures and personalities of the audiences allows the comics to thrive and turn this into the ultimate laughter spot on Monday evenings.

Details: Comedy Shots

Ticket: INR 100/-

Tuesday: Bistro Claytopia, Koramangala

One of the early venues for standup in Bengaluru, Claytopia is a revered spot for the comedians of the city. Uniquely themed, Claytopia allows you buy clay items and sit there and paint them...all while you enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee. The venue always attracts an active crowd that is hunting for more than "Netflix and Chill". The open mic held in the indoor section of the room presents some of the most seasoned comedians in the city. When you go here, you must try anything off the burger menu. Just be sure to eat between comedians, and not during. I learned this from experience.

Details:  Comedy Shots

Ticket: RSVP on EventsHigh

Wednesday: Urban Solace Cafe, Ulsoor

India’s longest-running comedy open mic, (yes! Indias.) is the open mic evening at Urban Solace. The weekly Wednesday laughter ritual has been going on for 8 years. Kanan (Gill), Biswa (Kalyan), Kenny (Sebastian) are some of the many comics who began their comic careers here. This well-located space has always been a promoter of arts and performance and is the city’s favorite hangout spot for all members of the creative industry in Bengaluru. The Spicy Basil Chicken and their curated wines are perfect for a comedy night.

Details: Urban Solace / Bangalore Comedy Club

Ticket:  Free!!

Thursday: Eddy’s Cafe, Indiranagar  

This intimate cafe in Indiranagar is the freshest crowd favorite amongst the lovers of open mic comedy. A small venue, housing a lucky few who grab their tickets, the open mics here are yet to have a disappointing evening of comedy. The friendly atmosphere, interesting wall posters, and comfort food make it a great evening for you… even if zthe comedians are having one of their though nights.

Details:  Comedy Shots

Ticket:  INR 150/- (INR 100 redeemable on F&B.)

Friday: Raw Star, Kammanhalli

If laughter is a recommended healthy choice, then double the advantages by pairing it some healthy food. Raw Star, Kammanhalli, the cafe that braves itself on nutritious heatly food is the Friday pick. If your Friday nights don’t endorse the idea of drinking till you cannot move, then you should go here. The open mic always features a short yet powerful lineup.

Details: Lodhan Live

Ticket:  INR 100/- (Redeemable on F&B.)

Saturday: Jagriti Theatre, Whitefield.

If you're one who likes a quirky setup, then this one is for you. A stand-up open-mic in a yard, this is a cherished stage to perform on and always attracts the best of the bunch. This open mic being open to spot grabbing is a great starting point for anyone who wants to hop in front of an audience for the first time. Located in the heart of the IT capital, and starting at a convenient 5 PM this is a delightful start to your Saturday night.

Details:  Comedy Shots

Ticket:  Free!!

Sunday: Big Pitcher, HAL Road

A weekend without beer is a weekend wasted. Make your weekend count by adding some comedy to it with Big Pitcher. A dedicated performance space, great beer and a powerful lineup of comedians make this an ideal way to end your weekend. This relatively new open mic is well received and looks to have a promising future.

Details: Hippo Laugh Club

Ticket: INR 200/-