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RANKED

CalabarCross River State

Updated 2 months ago

Best Live Music Venues in Calabar — 2026 Rankings

Looking for the best live music venues in Calabar, Cross River State? Whether you're a visitor or a local, Calabar's nightlife scene offers a mix of high-energy concerts and intimate performances. From the top-rated The hUB Calabar (Altarsound 360) with a stellar 4.8-star rating to popular spots like Bays Bar and Amber Karaoke Lounge, there's something for every music lover. Our ranking is based on Google ratings, review volume, recency, profile completeness, verification, and paid placement, ensuring you get a reliable list of the finest live music experiences in town.

How the algorithm scored this20 businesses ranked

As of August 2026, Ranked lists 20 live music venues in Calabar, Nigeria, ranked by review sentiment, reputation and verified activity — never by payment.

Source: Ranked (ranked.ng) directory database · full statistics · methodology

Ranked
20

businesses

Reviews analyzed
1.5K

Google reviews

Photos verified
19

cover images

Last refresh
2 months ago

editorial review

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20 results
  • Editor's Selection#1 in the city
    1
    The hUB Calabar (Altarsound 360) — photo

    The hUB Calabar (Altarsound 360)

    72.6/ 100
    4.84.8 out of 5 stars73 reviews

    35 Okoro Agbo Street, Akim Qua Town, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    Review analysis

    One-stop event hall with top-notch sound, lighting, and AC, seating up to 350.

    • great sound
    • air conditioned
    • good ambience
    • professional staff
    • event center
    Why ranked #1? ▾
    • Google rating93
    • Review volume62
    • Review recency29
    • Profile completeness100
    • Review sentiment86
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Dallas O. ★★★★★ I got lost and immersed in the sound, the ambient and setting of this venue. The reception and staffing is top notch and professional.
  • 2
    Bays Bar Calabar — photo

    Bays Bar Calabar

    68.4/ 100
    4.34.3 out of 5 stars148 reviews₦₦

    1b felix Nsemo Drive Secretariat road, Diamond Hill Rd, Old Town, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    Review analysis

    Renovated with video game room, gym, swimming pool, and snack shop with best milk bread.

    • renovated
    • video game room
    • gym
    • swimming pool
    • snack shop
    • milk bread
    Why ranked #2? ▾
    • Google rating83
    • Review volume72
    • Review recency32
    • Profile completeness67
    • Review sentiment86
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Lehiowo O. ★★★★★ A nice hangout spot for nightcrawlers. I especially love their snack shop. Their milk bread is the best I've had in a while
    • Ogbu S. ★★★★ Trying to accommodate so many tables in a tiny space. It looks crowded.
  • 3
    Venetian Arena — photo

    Venetian Arena

    68.2/ 100
    4.24.2 out of 5 stars130 reviews

    Plot 5 Murtala Mohammed Hwy, beside Fynefield Filling Station, Ikot Mbo Rubber Esta, Calabar 540211, Cross River, Nigeria

    Why ranked #3? ▾
    • Google rating80
    • Review volume71
    • Review recency70
    • Profile completeness67
    • Review sentiment50
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Neno.O ★★★★ Spacious event center. The location is good and easy to access. The hall has a gallery to accommodate more people. Ventilation is good and AC is working well. Recommend for your events.
    • Segun F. ★★★★★ The hall is nice. They have a good amount of space inside. They also have good amount of parking space outside.
  • 4
    Event 45 — photo

    Event 45

    66.9/ 100
    4.44.4 out of 5 stars79 reviews

    X8HP+J6G, Douglas Ave, Leopad Town, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    Review analysis

    Security concerns due to theft from parked vehicles despite visible guards.

    • classy venue
    • ample parking
    • air conditioned
    • theft incident
    • good customer service
    • spacious hall
    Why ranked #4? ▾
    • Google rating86
    • Review volume63
    • Review recency26
    • Profile completeness100
    • Review sentiment56
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Ekom E. ★★★★ I had my wedding reception there last week. Almost 600 souvenirs (flat tongues, hair dryer, umbrellas, 3-in -1 towels, lighters) was stolen from our bus at the premises of this Event45. The bus was parked right in front of the security house, visible enough for the security guys to see. The securities were around but when asked, all kept mute without response or any reaction of such thing happening on their watch. It felt like nothing to them. Throughout the event, the gate was closed. Cars could not drive in without anyone's notice. The persons who opened our bus, and took such large amount of souvenirs right in front of the security house definitely was seen. We were told during payment for the centre, of its high security standard and CCTV cameras. Upon asking for the outside security cameras footage, we were told it was not working which i find hard to believe, suddenly the outside security cameras was not working. It was very heart breaking for me as a bride to see this. Most of my guest who came from far and near, left without souvenirs. I would be wary to book this centre again in future for any of my events. I was the bride that day, it was "My day". Imagine such an embarrassing situation and wicked act which could not be defended by the said securitys in the centre. This Event45 centre served me poorly!!!,
    • Benny E. ★★★★★ A very Classy event center I would say,fully air conditioned and with ample parking space.. Located in State housing Estate in calabar..you can always count on Thier facility cos it's actually one of the best in town but the road leading there is beginning to get bad and needs Resurfacing..This is State housing Estate for God sake and it houses several top politicians in the state including the former governor Senator Professor Ben Ayade etc
  • 5
    Amber Karaoke Lounge — photo

    Amber Karaoke Lounge

    66.0/ 100
    4.34.3 out of 5 stars103 reviews

    X8MV+46H, Atekong, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    Review analysis

    Karaoke nights with a lively, club-like atmosphere and expensive drinks.

    • great music
    • lively environment
    • karaoke
    • expensive drinks
    • limited parking
    • pos issues
    Why ranked #5? ▾
    • Google rating83
    • Review volume67
    • Review recency29
    • Profile completeness67
    • Review sentiment78
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Chukwuebuka M. ★★★★★ Amber karaoke lounge is The best place to hangout and relax The have the best club in Calabar
    • tam B. ★★★★ Well well well...if you're new in Calabar or just trying to come on a vacation, Amber's is actually a nice place to go and lounge. It's actually located according to the map a place called Etegbo, popularly known as :fiesta'. I most warn you it's not your typical lounge, here it's more like a night club, expensive drinks and so many rules. The least wine it's actually 20k and 2k for energy drink. The DJ is nice, the drummer is awesome' love that guy, security is actually good, don't like the bouncer there kind of dubious. Watch out for that one. The barman is kind, waitress don't really care just spend your money.
  • 6
    Embassy lounge — photo

    Embassy lounge

    60.8/ 100
    4.54.5 out of 5 stars11 reviews

    112 Marian Road, Atekong, Calabar 540242, Cross River, Nigeria

    Review analysis

    Spacious seating for groups of 5+ with affordable drinks and top DJ vibes.

    • spacious seating
    • good vibes
    • affordable drinks
    • great dj
    • clean environment
    • safe spot
    Why ranked #6? ▾
    • Google rating88
    • Review volume36
    • Review recency27
    • Profile completeness67
    • Review sentiment86
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Dorcas A. ★★★★★ Nice,clean and beautiful environment... One of my favorite place in calabar to chill
    • Augustine A. ★★★★ It was a safe spot to have fun
  • 7
    King's Winery — photo

    King's Winery

    60.6/ 100
    4.14.1 out of 5 stars127 reviews₦₦

    Kings Shopping Complex, 38 Atekong Dr, Atekong, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    Review analysis

    Offers a wide variety of wines, whiskeys, bitters, and beers alongside grilled pork and fish.

    • good music
    • nice ambiance
    • clean toilet
    • variety of drinks
    • grilled food
    • poor staff response
    Why ranked #7? ▾
    • Google rating77
    • Review volume70
    • Review recency13
    • Profile completeness67
    • Review sentiment62
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Hossy J. ★★★★ My first time, and I forgot my power bank Tried calling one of the staff, no response as to secure the power bank before it’s gone! Came back the next morning and the staffs said there were no power bank in sight! Asides that, the place, the ambiance is very nice and delightful!
    • Dj D. ★★★★★ Kings winery is one of the amazing outlet when it comes lounge and bar, amazing music, nice grills and their ISI ewu is top notch..
  • 8
    Angles Bar & Lounge — photo

    Angles Bar & Lounge

    60.2/ 100
    3.83.8 out of 5 stars123 reviews₦₦

    O, C, 39 Atekong Dr, Atekong, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    Why ranked #8? ▾
    • Google rating65
    • Review volume70
    • Review recency56
    • Profile completeness67
    • Review sentiment50
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Engr E. ★★★★★ Nice place to relax and watch football
    • Poirot ★★★★ Relaxing ambience and really friendly. I particularly like how it's situated and our baby faced attendant kept it fun. Thanks for the effort to quickly get what we requested even when your establishment didn't have one on hand👍🏽
  • 9
    Zero Arena Club — photo

    Zero Arena Club

    60.2/ 100
    4.34.3 out of 5 stars39 reviews

    by Fi Ekong, Ndidem Usang Iso Rd, Atekong, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    Review analysis

    Combines a club, cozy lounge (Office Pub), and outdoor food vendor in one venue.

    • good music
    • spacious
    • slow start
    • overpriced drinks
    • rude bouncers
    • cozy lounge
    Why ranked #9? ▾
    • Google rating83
    • Review volume53
    • Review recency27
    • Profile completeness67
    • Review sentiment56
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • opra W. ★★★★★ Zero Arena Club is the best club I have seen 💙 in Calabar and environs so far. World class premium service.
    • Mathias A. ★★★★★ Club Zero is a club but also has a cozy lounge called the Office Pub and a outdoor food vendor who serves the entire premises.Lovely place to chill,lounge and also party hard in the center of Calabar,Marian road
  • 10
    The Tipsy Mistress — photo

    The Tipsy Mistress

    58.8/ 100
    4.34.3 out of 5 stars6 reviews

    2 Effanga Mkpa Street, off Marian road, Atekong, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    • a la carte
    • isi ewu
    • hard meat
    • recommended
    Why ranked #10? ▾
    • Google rating83
    • Review volume28
    • Review recency64
    • Profile completeness67
    • Review sentiment55
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Tausin A. ★★★★★ I expected better from a spot that claims to prepare their meals a la carte but I was very disappointed with my order however my friends enjoyed theirs. I simply requested that my dish; Isi Ewu, which is a meat dish be made extra soft and deboned; as I don’t like strong, hard meats. However, despite the time taken to prepare it, my dish underperformed and was really hard. 😒 I may give them another chance to impress me on TipsyTuesday but for a quick bite; it’s a no for me.
    • David I. ★★★★★ I’d recommend over and over again 9/10
  • 11
    De Sauce Rooftop — photo

    De Sauce Rooftop

    58.1/ 100
    4.24.2 out of 5 stars99 reviews

    92 Murtala Mohammed Hwy, Ikot Ekan Edem, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    Review analysis

    Rooftop venue with a popular food spot (Munchies and Shakes) in the compound.

    • good dj
    • nice waiter
    • great aesthetics
    • amazing food
    • limited beer options
    • good ambiance
    Why ranked #11? ▾
    • Google rating80
    • Review volume67
    • Review recency4
    • Profile completeness33
    • Review sentiment78
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Joy O. ★★★★★ The ambiance, music, food, customer service were just amazing ❤️
  • 12
    Clubdelve Atimbo — photo

    Clubdelve Atimbo

    57.5/ 100
    3.93.9 out of 5 stars217 reviews₦₦

    106 Marian road, by Mary Slessor Ave, Municipality, Calabar 540122, Cross River, Nigeria

    Review analysis

    Known for having the best DJ in Calabar, according to recent reviews.

    • good dj
    • live band
    • wheelchair accessible
    • affordable
    • friendly staff
    • lodging issues
    Why ranked #12? ▾
    • Google rating69
    • Review volume78
    • Review recency25
    • Profile completeness33
    • Review sentiment59
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Uyoemem I. ★★★★★ It's March 2025, Delve Bar by Mary Slazor officially has the best DJ in Calabar.
    • alpha E. ★★★★★ 3 star cause the dj is lit For the hotel the only room available was the one they use for short rest They had to make we wait till 10pm before I can check in and checkout time is 10am The shower is spoilt and the water closet cant flush well
  • 13
    THE DOME EVENT CENTER CALABAR — photo

    THE DOME EVENT CENTER CALABAR

    56.4/ 100
    5.05.0 out of 5 stars3 reviews

    X8FR+Q8R Headquarters, Obame Ikoya St, LGA, Municipal, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    Why ranked #13? ▾
    • Google rating95
    • Review volume20
    • Review recency54
    • Profile completeness33
    • Review sentiment50
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

  • 14
    MEETCITY LOUNGE — photo

    MEETCITY LOUNGE

    54.7/ 100
    4.84.8 out of 5 stars6 reviews

    80 Mount Zion Rd, Calabar South, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    Why ranked #14? ▾
    • Google rating93
    • Review volume28
    • Review recency7
    • Profile completeness67
    • Review sentiment50
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Flako ★★★★★ Great place to get on some vibes ❤️
    • ADOGA A. ★★★★★ I love meetcity. I love their services
  • 15

    Little Havana

    53.9/ 100
    4.44.4 out of 5 stars47 reviews

    31 Ndidem Usang Iso Rd, Big Qua Town, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    Review analysis

    Vegetable mixed with bitter leaf soup is a standout dish.

    • good music
    • cold drinks
    • lively environment
    • single entrance/exit
    • bitter leaf soup
    Why ranked #15? ▾
    • Google rating86
    • Review volume56
    • Review recency6
    • Profile completeness0
    • Review sentiment71
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • BUKASONATION A. ★★★★ It's a nice place, I visited at night and the dj was giving me plenty of good music and so much more fun from the hype man, I did enjoy here 🥳🥳
    • Chikezie U. ★★★★ It was really nice...cool people and lively environment
  • 16
    Delve bar — photo

    Delve bar

    52.8/ 100
    4.04.0 out of 5 stars28 reviews

    Ikot Omin 541112, Cross River, Nigeria

    Review analysis

    Unique ambiance with mobile police security and live music.

    • great ambiance
    • live music
    • secure
    • expensive
    • poor service
    • good drinks
    Why ranked #16? ▾
    • Google rating73
    • Review volume49
    • Review recency22
    • Profile completeness33
    • Review sentiment71
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Chibueze L. ★★★★ Service is poor You will be charged extra for paying through pos or doing transfer. The DJ doesn't play good music
    • Eze M. ★★★★ It's a really chill spot..Accessibile, secure, Good music and nice food
  • 17
    Backyard Terrace — photo

    Backyard Terrace

    50.8/ 100
    3.63.6 out of 5 stars118 reviews₦₦

    Plot 10 Southern Industrial Layout Ekorinom, Calabar 540211, Cross River, Nigeria

    Review analysis

    Combines local delicacies with football viewing and snooker.

    • reasonable price
    • friendly service
    • local delicacies
    • football
    • snooker
    • chilled beer
    Why ranked #17? ▾
    • Google rating55
    • Review volume69
    • Review recency3
    • Profile completeness67
    • Review sentiment62
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Emmanuel U. ★★★★★ I visited backyard Terrace just twice and loved the food , great quality food for a reasonable price.. Friendly services. It's worth a visit. Will definitely visit again one of these days
    • Verity N. ★★★★★ Its a very cool space with calm music and sound Nice for a meet up with friends or a low-key date
  • 18
    jasper night club — photo

    jasper night club

    49.6/ 100
    3.93.9 out of 5 stars28 reviews₦₦

    Effion Ntioro Street, Atekong, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    Why ranked #18? ▾
    • Google rating69
    • Review volume49
    • Review recency0
    • Profile completeness67
    • Review sentiment50
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

  • 19
    Vibes lounge — photo

    Vibes lounge

    48.6/ 100
    3.53.5 out of 5 stars19 reviews

    Plot 96 Mekenge Layout, Akim Qua Town, Calabar 540281, Cross River, Nigeria

    Why ranked #19? ▾
    • Google rating50
    • Review volume43
    • Review recency58
    • Profile completeness67
    • Review sentiment50
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

    Recent reviews

    • Tausin A. ★★★★ It’s a good place for a hangout, good music, nice atmosphere but service could be better. The shawarma though is really the best I’ve had in Calabar.
    • paul S. ★★★★★ Went for a friends birthday, and by 9 p.m we were already to pay our bills that they want to close
  • 20
    Zanzee Bar — photo

    Zanzee Bar

    43.6/ 100
    3.53.5 out of 5 stars122 reviews₦₦

    32b Parliamentary village, Ishie Town, Calabar 540211, Cross River, Nigeria

    Review analysis

    Poolside bar with friendly service, but rooms have maintenance issues.

    • poolside bar
    • friendly service
    • small rooms
    • inconsistent water
    • faulty ac
    • expensive rooms
    Why ranked #20? ▾
    • Google rating50
    • Review volume70
    • Review recency1
    • Profile completeness33
    • Review sentiment44
    • Verification0

    Scores 0–100 per dimension. See how we rank.

Frequently asked questions

What is the highest-rated live music venue in Calabar?

The highest-rated live music venue in Calabar is The hUB Calabar (Altarsound 360), with an impressive 4.8-star rating from 73 reviews. It tops our list for its exceptional live music experience.

Which live music venue in Calabar has the most reviews?

Bays Bar Calabar has the most reviews among live music venues in Calabar, with 148 reviews and a 4.3-star rating. It's a popular spot with a price level of 2, making it a great option for a lively night out.

Are there any karaoke venues in Calabar?

Yes, Amber Karaoke Lounge is a dedicated karaoke venue in Calabar, rated 4.3 stars from 103 reviews. It's perfect for those who want to sing along to their favourite tunes in a fun atmosphere.

What is the best live music venue for a large crowd in Calabar?

Venetian Arena is a top choice for large crowds, with a 4.2-star rating from 130 reviews. It's one of the most reviewed venues and can accommodate a significant number of guests for live performances.

How are the live music venues in Calabar ranked on this list?

Our ranking is based on a combination of factors: Google rating, number of reviews, recency of reviews, profile completeness, verification status, and paid placement. This ensures a comprehensive and reliable list of the best live music venues in Calabar.

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