Big Bang - Dueling Piano Bar
401 N Front St,Ste 95, Columbus, OH, 43215
Big Bang - Dueling Piano Bar Menu
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Address :
401 N Front St,Ste 95
Columbus, OH, 43215 - Phone (614) 233-9999
- Website https://www.bigbangcolumbus.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Tue
Specialities
- Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Parking : Garage, Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Very Loud
Music : Live
Good For Dancing : Yes
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : Yes
Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : Yes
Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Has TV : No
Dogs Allowed : No
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Brooke M.
The amount of entertainment you will get here is 10/10... There are two pianos facing each other and also a drum set, guitar, etc on the stage. People give the artist their song choices and the guys play them on the piano and sing along. They will play about anything! From 80's to r&b and hip hop, they seriously know it all. This is not some boring singalong place, you are able to dance on the stage and usually the whole crowd is up dancing at their seat. I highly recommend this to all people whether you are 22 or 62! I can't not wait to go back.
(5)Elaine C.
Maybe this is common for dueling piano bars, but I was disappointed that the musicians made a very big deal about money and needing more money to play more songs otherwise threatening to stop (each song request required a tip attached, and if there wasn't enough tip attached, they would not play the song). We all paid cover and were buying drinks, I'm not sure why it was necessary. More on the venue: Not many places to dance, just some by the bar, and not really any by the stage. The bouncers kept inviting some girls in the crowd to dance on stage for a song, then each girl would be kicked off. What I'm trying to say is, it' shard to dance in a group here.
(2)Rodney W.
A pretty great place to hang out for a while. While crowded (be sure you get a table next to a walking space), it's also pretty cozy. There are those in the audience who are having a pretty good, drink amplified, time and they get everyone else just as involved with how good a time it is. The dueling pianos are pretty cool. Each guy takes turns cranking out covers and while some have better voices than others, it's all entertaining. The barmaid I had waiting on me was pretty overburdened. I think she was the only one working the whole place, so be expected to wait a long time for service, but be understanding as well. It's not her fault that the joint understaffed. The drink prices are pretty stiff for the specialty drinks ($13 for my drink), but they are delicious and at least you get to keep the glass! All in all, a pretty good place to spend an hour or two (the piano bit does get old after a while). If I were in the area and needed a place to hang out for a while, I would definitely return. The drink prices are pretty stiff for the specialty drinks ($13 for my drink), but they are delicious and at least you get to keep the glass! All in all, a pretty good place to spend an hour or two (the piano bit does get old after a while). If I were in the area and needed a place to hang out for a while, I would definitely return.
(3)David M.
I can't believe this place only has one review so far. I had a great time here, and the night I went the musicians were great. I haven't been to other dueling piano bars, but I am a musician myself and I was pretty impressed by the talent. All of the pianists were multi-instrumentalists and would jump on the drums, bass, guitar or keytar at times. They also played some contemporary songs really well. One of my favorites was the new all american rejects single, hope it gives you hell, or something like that. They also played the standards, which is to be expected. This place has definitely convinced me to check out more dueling piano bars, and when I do I may re-review with some valuable experience. For now, I like the big bang bar.
(5)Albert Y.
Very fun atmosphere! I went with some friends on a Saturday night and got in for free with my military ID. The musicians are quite talented, and the bathrooms are really well maintained. I didn't enjoy the creepy older gentlemen around the stage, but overall it was a good experience and I'd definitely visit again.
(4)Adam B.
This rating is strictly for the Columbus Big Bang. I've been to the one in Nashville and would definitely give it 5 stars. The Columbus Big Bang is crowded with overpriced drinks and clueless bartenders. As another reviewer stated, if there are more than two customers at the bar they have no idea what to do with themselves. The music is great but the ambiance couldn't be worse. There is hardly any room to stand, let alone walk. Be prepared to wait outside for 30 minutes if you don't get there before 9. On a side note, this could be one of the best, not necessarily cheapest, happy hour bars in Columbus. You miss the crowd, the cover and the pricey drinks. Head in around 6, enjoy the music (because the musicians really are GREAT), then leave once the crowd really starts to pour in. I'm hoping it's only packed because it's still relatively new and it will wear off eventually but I fear that it's only this packed because of the lack of decent bars downtown.
(2)Nikalete F.
I first discovered Big Bang in Nashville, TN. I was very excited to see it open in Columbus. I enjoy the music and the crowd is typically a different style. I am not into the whole cram 3000 people into a tiny room and play music so loud your ears bleed for three days scene. So I went, excited. The crowd was packed; there was no place to sit. They were way over their occupancy limit, can we say fire hazard! You couldn't see the stage and people kept giving us dirty looks because we were standing in the way. It was $6 to get in. If you go out in that area often then you know most of them have no cover. I made the mistake of going sober so I ordered a drink; It was overpriced, even for the area. I did see a sign for drink specials during the week. Overall I want to go back to see if the crowd has subsided, I assume it was all the hype drawing in the drunk girls screaming and the baby-T type guys. I do enjoy this type of bar and the music is fantastic.
(4)Michael O.
over-crowded every Saturday night. Kind of lame. I'll avoid it next time. Typically there is a massive crowd age-discrepancy. Old people hogging up all the tables, young d-bags crowding the bar area and isles.
(2)Angie K.
awesome place if you get there early. This place gets pack and it is understandable why. They cover everything and have a variety of talent. I like it, if you want a table make a reservation.
(4)Jessica H.
It's cool and the musicians are multi-talented. It's a straight up, fun piano bar with classic rock to current hip hop tickled on the ivories, drums and other instruments that vary throughout the night. Age skews young/college, therefore I would arrive early and leave before it gets 'sloppy'. When crowded ordering bevs is a PITA. Decent happy hour specials, otherwise appropriately expensive to the arena district. Eat first, no food. I should also disclose that I would NEVER pay a cover...esp not here then pay for expensive drinks. Again, arrive a little earlier than the pack.
(2)Miss B.
Big Bang Piano Bar is a great place to go for a celebration. Which is probably why you'll likely always find a Bachelorette party (or three) taking place there on any given Saturday night. But, it's a really unique place where the entertainment is great, very talented, and so much fun to watch. Everyone there seemed friendly and participated in the "activities," like stage calls and birthday requests, etc. One downside is that if you don't get there really early and snag a table, you're stuck standing the entire time - and there really isn't all that much standing room. But that didn't stop me from enjoying my night! I had a lot of fun at this bar. Definitely something to try while you're in the Arena District. There's a cover, but (hint) check in on Yelp before entering the doors!
(4)Megan D.
Big Bang is a good ole time! I love bars that have something fun other than just standing around. I mean you'll still stand around but at least you've got some quality entertainment at the same time. Big Bang has this 20's, underground, speakeasy feeling to it. It's in a basement, so it's dark, and close quarters. You'll wait a while for drinks when it's busy and they are a bit expensive but you're paying for an atmosphere and 2 really cool piano players. So I think it's a decent tradeoff. There's also a cover which is a bit of a bummer. My work had our office party here and it got crazy. This is a great place for groups. Which is probably why on any given Friday or Saturday, this is a prime place for bachelorette parties. **Hint hint to boys looking to scam on some single bridesmaids.** Because of this, the crowd can skew a bit young and often loud and occasionally obnoxious. But overall, it's a fun time and something a little different than your normal bar.
(3)Natalie D.
Friday night, crowded but good people there. Pianists were good, entertaining and true to songs. I'd go again.
(3)Stephanie P.
This was a fun way to spend an evening. A wide assortment of people sitting (or standing) drinking, laughing and singing along with the guys onstage. This isn't a place I could go all the time but it was fun for awhile. And it's the odd type of bar where I'd be comfortable bringing my Mom. It's always packed so if you don't like being crowded, then perhaps this isn't your place. Oh! If you check in on Yelp, you get a deal on the cover charge for Friday and Saturday nights.
(3)Adrienne C.
It's a bit difficult to fairly review a place that I wouldn't normally come to. Ended up here because other people in the group wanted to go for bday celebrations. I think it's decent for a piano bar. i was shocked at the long line outside the door. these guys should throw up some heat lamps to keep the line warm! +change-up from the regular Cbus bar scene +speedy bar service +very accommodating with the free water +charismatic pianists -$6 cover???????? -hillbilly paradise -bachelorette party central -uber crowded so you have to stand, but it's not really a dancing place so the standing gets dull and tiresome -super loud, so not a good spot to chat either it's cool to go once to check out the experience i suppose.
(2)Catherine J.
You've got to go into Big Bang with the right attitude. If bachelorette parties and overly-drunk suburbanites scream-singing "Livin' on a Prayer" are going to annoy you, don't go. If, instead, you'll find the beauty in these moments... then Big Bang might just be the boredom-buster you need! I can definitely appreciate a bar where something is going on besides just drinking and darts. Big Bang is not somewhere I could go every week, but it's fun to sing a little and people-watch. The musicians are talented, cute, and funny. I'm sure the schtick is on repeater from night-to-night, but who cares? I'm horrible at singing so I like to hide in the group revelry. I kind of wish they would play more Disney songs and Nsync jams, though. Sidenote: when I turned 21 back in Boulder, Colorado years ago, I lived within walking distance of a deuling piano bar called The Reef. It was much smaller, but in hindsight probably no less obnoxious than Big Bang. Ah, memories. Waves of nostalgia. If you're moaning about a steep cover price, here's some thoughts. (1) I think there's a free cover deal when you check in on the Yelp app and (2) you won't need to drink as much once inside, since you'll have something else to do. So maybe that'll save you some cash. Then again, you might need to drink more if you can't just cut loose (footloose!) and belt along unless you're drunky.
(4)Ben K.
I have been to The Big Bang many times over the last few years. It has a very unique atmosphere that is perfect if you want to go out, but don't necessarily want to "Rage your face off"... The performers each play several instruments, and routinely swap instruments. This keeps things fresh as your not hearing the same person singing all night, as well as the "lead" instrument changes from time to time. There are two bars, which help with the crowd. They WILL run out of seats on the weekend after 10:00-10:30, and there is also a cover on the weekends. So get there before 10, and find a nice spot near the front and enjoy! All the music is by request, and they do like to involve the crowd. There has literally been a bachelorette party there every single time I've gone. (At least 15 times.) And the bachelorette will end up on stage at some point. The drink prices are a bit above average, but so is the music.... being live and all. If you have never been, you have to go at least once. Maybe try to snag one of their famous "Bang This!" t-shirts while your there! ^_^
(4)Robyn K.
Fun but a little disappointed they don't play what you actually request. They made fun of what we requested up in stage and picked a different song... Nooo!! However management was great!!!
(3)Courtney W.
Went here after a convention and the place was packed. It was supposed to be booked for the convention's after party but there must have been at least 7 bachlorette parties here that night. The place was small, very cramped, and very unique. There's 2 piano's and they play a whole bunch of different kind of songs. I counted 2 bars, one right at the bottom of the stairs and another on the other end of the floor. I spent most of the night with some new friends we met here, mostly on the patio upstairs. Yet another small & cramped space but I had such a great time! There's normally a charge to get in here, I think $5(?). That said, I havent been back since and I'm not sure if I would pay to get in to this place being how packed it gets. I have major anxiety issues unless I'm drinking so this place is a bit intimidating for me. We're talking no room to move (at all), no where to put your drinks down, no way to squeeze yourself to the bar area, and so many bachlorette parties that the place was filled with screaming women taking selfies. Normally I wouldnt care, I dont go out seeking these types of places, but I hate bachlorette parties! ..Mindless & severely drunk women who have no concept of what they're doing and who spend the night right next to your ear screaming about how much they have to pee and how 'freaking itchy' their bra's are from how badly they're sweating. This is why I spent most of the night outside on the patio. It was late Oct and FREEZING but it was better in the smoking section then down stairs in the piano bar. We met some people when we showed up, right before this place got packed. It came out of nowhere and we were standing right by the stage on the stairs. We turned, laughing at the humor of it all, to get more drinks from the bar and realized we couldnt move. This is when my panic attack set in but luckily enough I had some beer left and quickly fix my situation. Comic Con was here that night, lots of costumes, lots of people pointing and laughing which wasn't cool. I enjoyed the levity of it. Most of them didnt stay since most people here were over dressed and they, coming from the convention felt the odd man out. We stayed, we didn't care. In our eyes we were there first. That's when the wave of brides to be showed up, probably around 10 or 11pm. I made it to the bar in one piece but had to scream to be heard in order to get another. That was too much for me. Don't get me wrong, this place was a lot of fun and the drinks weren't even expensive .We're talking $2 or $3 PBR's and I think $4 Bud when I was there. No idea the other prices since I seldom risked a venture down below into the chaos once we made our way upstairs. There was a group of 6 of us and only 1 dared go at a time since it was so tight moving and we didnt dare loose our itty bitty table by the heat lamp. I went down once by myself and it took about 15mins to get about 30 feet & back. I would recommend this for people who like this type of vibe, insane crowds, rowdy but not violent, FREAKING LOUD, & the piano music was mostly from musicals & not classical at all, which made it fun! Not to mention lots of screaming & waving of arms and many many drunk women w/ a couple creepy men trying to pick them up (what bar doesnt have this though?) For every 5 people here, there were 15 who were trying to get in (but couldnt fit from being over crowded). If you want to go please keep this in mind. Go early (7, 8pm) and get a table downstairs (there's not many), and please.. don't bother getting up unless you have someone (like 2 men) holding your spots. It's so loud that ''Sorry these seats are taken'' are a feeble attempt of guarding your land. If your dare venture the bar, either stand by it the whole time or go with a buddy who can push people for you and help hold drinks, esp if you're drunk and want to make it back to your table in one piece & with nothing spilled. I'm not the kind of person who likes to sit and drink all night. I need to move around and see things, hear things, watch people doing stupid stuff. We lost our spot pretty early on so we couldnt see the stage anymore, we could barely hear the band.... we went outside around 11pm and stayed many hours later. Don't be like us if you're going here! lol Go early & bring your party self or you'll be sorry.
(3)Rick G.
I was surprised with this destination as an early birthday outing. I've never been but will definitely be back! I was awestruck at the talent these folks have and the merriment that they produced for the audience. So for anyone who hasn't experienced this there is an in house troop of extremely talented musicians that perform different instruments. The central focus is the pair of dueling pianos of the stage. The troop rotates around from the pianos to the electric guitar to drum set. They take requests from the audience (including a tip with your request helps ensure your request will be sang) There were several bachelorette parties going on that night consequently I saw more plastic penises than one could shake a stick at but I digress. The songs were literally all over the charts from Garth Brooks to Journey Queen Rascal Flatts you get the idea. They never skipped a beat and the most important part is that the audience sings along with them. So needless to say my air guitar got a work out and my voice was a little rough the next day but was an absolutely marvelous time. If you haven't gone you simply must!
(5)Evalyn C.
Stopped by as the last stop on our bachelorette party barhop. We got here right before 1a and were informed there was no need to pay cover. I had been lead to believe this place was always packed, but it really wasn't when we arrived. The pianist were fantastic and made the experience so much more fun. They played everything from country and alternative to hip hop and jazz standards in the brief hour we were there. The staff was friendly and we all felt this was the best stop of the evening.
(4)Shaun H.
My girlfriend and I went here a couple of weekends ago. After parking and walking a couple of blocks we arrived at our destination. There was a really long line to get in on a Saturday night about 10pm but the line moved quickly and in about 20-25 minutes we were inside. The place is really hopping but very small. We had to stand most of the night without a table or anything. The drinks were good, a little expensive but not too bad. The guys at the piano really get the audience into the whole show and it's a rocking good time! This is definitely a younger, 20's something crowd although in my experience that's not a bad thing if you're in the mood for it and know what to expect. We also noticed there seemed to be at least 2, maybe 3, bachelorette parties in the audience too so this must be the place for that sort of thing. If you're looking for a very high energy, kinda crazy evening out on the town then I'd highly suggest you check this place out. Prepare to see a lot of VERY drunk young people though. One great thing is even though this place is extremely busy the bartenders do a FANTASTIC job of getting your drinks very fast. I never had to wait more than a minute to place and receive my drink order which is nothing short of incredible considering the amount of business this place does. Although my girlfriend and I don't do the bar thing a lot this is probably the most fun place we've found yet and we definitely plan to go back!
(4)Valissa W.
The good Lord has blessed me with a lot of things in life, but sadly a singing voice was not one of them. That doesn't mean I enjoy belting out a ballad any less than Mariah does, only that it's in the best interest of everyone that I keep my joyful noises to myself. Enter Big Bang. What's that you say? It's ok if I sing? You mean you WANT me to sing along?! OUT LOUD? Well, alright... Two grand pianos pound out classic bar tunes while the real talent croons into the mics, and the entire audience is invited to sing and dance along with them. Watch for the man with the fiddle -- there's no doubt in my mind he sold his soul to the devil to be able to play like that. I typically check my dissonant voice at the door, but at Big Bang a few Jack n Gingers is all it takes to edge me into a mistaken Madonna moment. Luckily for you, this ain't no karaoke joint so unless you're right next to me you won't hear anything but the pros. Suck it up and pay the $6 cover so you can down some cheap drinks -- then ask me for a dance cuz they're playing my song!
(5)Holly K.
Before I went here, I have to admit, I was worried it would be douchebag central as most of the Arena district is, however, I ended up surprised it was not. Or...maybe I didn't notice since I was mainly in the same vicinity of the place the entire evening with my friend's bachelorette bash? Anyway, I guess there is usually a $6 cover, which I find a bit much but whatever. You go down a flight of stairs into the bar and the bar itself is actually laid out very nice and has a good flow for traffic to move freely. We REALLY wanted them to play Nu Shooz's "I Can't Wait"...simply because if it's a whole slew of men on the instruments, the irony of it would be too amazing. But you can't win 'em all. Drinks seemed kinda pricey (Jameson was $6...that's DC prices...LOL!) but since it was my friend's party is the only reason I went. Our waitress was super attentive on drinks and such. Definitely a good place to do a bachelorette party or are into looking at some eye-candy dressed in dresses/heels. ;) Would I go back? Hmmm...potentially with a larger group. Just to venture in myself...probably not as I enjoy other bars better. However, as long as we'd get in without a cover I suppose I wouldn't mind with a group going. To me, it seems more like a place to kind of "kick off" the night, if you will. That's just me. That's my opinion. Glad it wasn't as douchey as I thought it would be. I wouldn't necessarily say it's good for dancing, simply because you're dancing to covers essentially. Meh. Not my thing. Overall, had a fun time. Check it out if you're looking for something different.
(3)Ashley N.
We arrived around 7:15 with no reservation, but was informed that tables would open up at exactly 7:45 if the whole party of a reservation didn't show up...so naturally we lingered around open tables waiting on the door men to come by and swipe the reserved cards. We were a party of 6 and luckily found a perfect area near the stage. We were pumped. We sat down, ordered our second round of drink and were enjoying the music. At roughly 5 til 8 a door attendant and bouncer came up to our table telling us we had to move because customers had already paid for that table (say what?!) I tried to make reservations and not once was I ever informed that someone could "pay" to have a table. Nonetheless of course I got irritated because we drove over an hour to visit this place. They were very rude and made us feel as if WE did something wrong when if fact we did exactly what other staff members told us to do to get seats. I feel the staff that approached us needs a scrubbing on their communication and personal skills. We had an AMAZING server who immediately jumped to our defense and grabbed the manager. Long story short- the manager was absolutely WONDERFUL and came to us in am extremely professional manner and apologized for the miss communication and told us if we could hand tight for just a minute she'd get us a table to accommodate our party. Which she did. I was very impressed with how she handled us, the other party, and her staff. Managers like her should be recognized. I noticed her a few more times during the evening and she seemed so involved in what was going on and was very kind. Kudos to you!! Our experience started a little rough, but this was by far one of the best nights we've had in a while and we will most certainly be back!!
(5)Matt B.
Super fun, but very crowded... go early!
(4)Matt G.
I went here for my 21st Birthday (Friday) awhile back, and I also went back on a weeknight (Thursday). Friday - It was packed! However, everyone was nice. The bar tender was very attentive, and a couple of the employees bought me drinks. The music was GREAT! They knew so many songs, and they played well with the crowd. Also, it was an older crowd when I went. Most people were at least in their late 20s, if not older. Thursday - Very calm. Two of us went here after dinner, and there was maybe 10 people in there. It was still loud, but the musicians still put on a helluva performance. Drinks are a little bit overpriced from what I've experienced, but not high enough that the show doesn't make up for it. Good for both groups and couples!
(4)Tom E.
While it falls short of the old Howl at the Moon it's still a good time. Took a small group on a Saturday night. We had a lot of fun but the layout of the club is a little poorly designed, few tables or places to sit. Really really hot, air conditioning was on but just wasn't enough to keep up. Bartender who helped come up with Malibu Black mixed with pineapple and orange juice was a genius.
(3)Rob H.
Back when I was in my 20's, I used to go to Howl at the Moon a few times a year. Now that I'm in my 40's, I'm no longer closing bars, so for those who are night owls on the entertainment scene, this review may not be of much use to you. My wife and I like to get a baby sitter around 4 PM on a Saturday, spend some quality time together and get back home by 10 PM or so. After getting dinner somewhere The Big Bang is a great place to end our evening. We got there just before 7 PM. Apparently they open at 6 and from 6 to 8 it is happy hour. We were not charged a cover charge (don't know if that is standard for happy hour) and our drinks were half price until 8 PM. It was about two thirds empty when we arrived, but after the 2 and half hours we spent there the place got packed, and people nearly leaped for our table as they saw us leaving. For us this works out great, as for the first hour or so it's kind of like a nice relaxed piano lounge. And then for the last hour or so it really starts to pick up the excitement. I'm sure from memories of my Howl at the Moon days the electricity keeps increasing until midnight or so. In fact, some will probably say the place doesn't get started until 9:30. For us, that's the perfect time for us to end. Yes, I'm entering the old fart stage of my life now... but I still love dueling piano bars. I miss Howl at the Moon, but The Big Bang is a great replacement.
(5)Kayla H.
Myself and 2 friends went and we were not disappointed at all! Drinks were strong and decently priced (about 4.50 for cocktails) and the music was going all night long. Will definitly be back!
(5)Julia J.
I was planning a bachelorette party from out of town, and I'm really disappointed that this was our last stop of the night. It's your standard piano bar, with super cheesy singers blasting away on their pianos that face each other but in no way display any real musical talent or dueling of any kind. Drinks were expensive. The place was packed. Big bang has nothing on the other better known piano bars out there like Howl at the moon (as much as I hate to say it, because HATM isn't much either). The staff was douchey and the bar was lame. Next!
(2)John L.
Classy and interactive! My favorite bar. I've never been to another piano bar so I can't compare to others, although my wife said Big Bang is way better than the one that was in the rise and fail area of Park Street. If you're looking for a sweaty place pulsating with top 40 music, this is not for you. The acoustics are great, possibly because lack of windows/being underground? There are two bars, which helps with a large crowd. It's fun to people watch because there's usually a diverse crowd. They have a cover at certain times but not others, I'm not familiar but I'd assume peak hours on Friday/Saturday you can expect to pay. Anyone who complains about it being loud or crowded: good luck finding a bar downtown or in the university district that isn't on the weekend! JUST LIKE A RESTAURANT, THE DAY OF THE WEEK WILL AFFECT YOUR EXPERIENCE. The alternative is going to bars pumping deafening pop music through broken sound systems. My wife and I have been to Big Bang once on a Sunday Labor Day weekend (best bar experience ever) and on a random Friday in winter. The Friday understandably peaked from 10-midnight. Of course a lot of people are there for bdays and bachelorette parties on Fridays and Saturdays not only because it's located in the Arena District but also because it has that special occasion feel. Plus I think they take table reservations. The Sunday visit was amazing because the crowd was small and calm. My wife and I were able to sit at the bar, enjoy the music, and chat with the bartender. The musicians are incredibly talented, supporting the main pianist with other instruments and rotating out for breaks. I was a little disappointed they couldn't play "When a Man Loves a Woman" upon request, it was our two year anniversary and that was our first dance song. I'm not much of a musician so I guess it could have been because that song can't really be played on the piano given the tempo, they definitely had the voices for it. In our inebriation we settled for "Don't Wanna Miss a Thing" and were forced to dance on the stage.
(5)Samir N.
Dueling piano bars are generally a safe bet. You get a few drinks in you, sing your ass off, and repeat. The service is pretty okay and there is an acceptable amount of elbow room. There is of course the requisite bachelorette party (why are bachelorette parties so terrible?). Still, good times.
(3)W P.
Was great until a regular started a fight and I was asked leave. Then his friends followed me to the bathroom where I was accosted and verified by the bathroom attendant and a staff member but I was asked to leave and was promised to talk to Matt the manager but that never happened so I called back he answered and hung up on me. I will be talking to management. Stayed tuned in.
(1)Trevor R.
Had a great time this weekend at the Big Bang. A friend made reservations for a table in front of the stage (only downside was we had to be there before 7:30p to keep the table), but ended up staying past midnight and having a great time. The 6 musicians, who play more than piano really well, belted out a ton of memorable songs. I've never heard Warren G's "Regulators" played on a piano before, but it was really great. They take requests and play songs for birthdays too. The place was packed after the Blue Jackets game, and therefore service was much slower due to the crowd later in the evening. But, all-and-all a great time and we'll definitely be back.
(4)Jon R.
Yo Big Bang. I was weary. I don't know exactly what I was expecting before I visited you last night. I think I was expecting an anti-social atmosphere with improvised jazz music played by halfway decent musicians. I expected absurdly expensive drinks and a weird vibe. I do not know why I was expecting this: nobody gave me any sort of indication that Big Bang would be that way. Was it the cover charge throwing me off? Or am I turning into a nihilist bastard? Well, Big Bang slapped pessimist me in the face. It was fun! It was a lot... simpler of an experience than I was expecting. Not outrageously expensive drinks, a social atmosphere, engaging and talented entertainer/musicians spinning out fun music. And whether you were watching the band, singing along drunkenly with your friends, or talking amongst yourselves, Big Bang is a pretty cool scene. I was quite impressed with the musicians. Many of them were multi-faceted. Most impressive to me was the guy (I thought your name was Corey but you're not on the website!) who was with us on piano most of the night, then did a few numbers on drums before we left. He was a quite good pianist and singer, but I was SO impressed by his drumming skill, especially after slaving at the piano and singing his heart out for hours. Big Bang, I'd return to thee. You are a lot less stiff than I was expecting, and that is awesome in my book.
(4)Erica K.
I certainly did have a good time. It was Saturday night. The Buckeyes were busy losing to Wisconsin, so the place wasn't very busy at about 9:15. There was no cover and our group snagged a table close to the pianos. I was pretty unimpressed with the beer selection, except the Columbus Brewing selection which happened to be a pretty nice IPA. It was $5, I think, which doesn't strike me as expensive at all, but I'm from Chicago. I didn't have any mixed drinks but folks at my table did. They were strong pours but I swear they charged $10 for a captain n coke. There were 3 shots in it I would guess, but I'd hate to pay that much if you don't happen to get a strong pour. Anyway, some of the performers were better than others. They flubbed through a number of songs, skipping verses and muttering too close to the mic to hide forgotten lyrics. But the atmosphere was good and most of the song choices were fun. By the end of the evening many of the patrons were pretty sloppy, spilling all over the floor and even dropping full bottles, so that was questionable if you weren't paying a lot of attention to where you were walking. I also would have expected them to have a bigger staff behind the bar. I think I waited 10 minutes to order a beer and it wasn't even that crowded (still some seats open and room to walk around, even if there was a group gathered right around the bar.) Anyway, like I said, we had fun singing and requesting songs. I would suggest going earlier in the night before there are 7 bachelorettes there with flashing penis jewelry and no ability to keep their drinks in the cups.
(3)Melanie B.
We came here for Cbus's first unofficial Yelp Event - sweet, we rule! And to collude with Cheryl's review, yes, we kicked major ass at music trivia!! The company was great, but as far as the venue, I dunno, guys... I'm not an Arena District type-a girl, so if you don't groove off a very mainstream vibe (note: the pianists did not know how to play Slayer OR the Rolling Stones (!?)), then I'd suggest going elsewhere (I still had fun though). I also agree with Cheryl that you should avoid weekends and going here alone. I feel like if you have out of town guests who like this sort of thing, I'd recommend it - it seems like it would please most fun-loving palates (and don't get me wrong, I was surprisingly competitive about us winning the trivia game!) - for example, I'd take my crazy mother here. She'd be so psyched. :) For a dueling piano bar, I have to say, I expected dueling pianos - this isn't actually the case here. It's more like collaborative - but I was impressed by the musicians (particularly the girl who looked and acted like Cheri O'Teri omggg) and their versatility - though unimpressed that they didn't seem to know any songs I wanted to hear, though they kept asking us. Um, also.. the waitress kept bringing me Bud Light instead of Miller Lite, so that was weird. There isn't much of a choice in the beer department. So alas and alack. Big Bang Bar? Eh. Maybe? I wouldn't have gone if I'd had to pay a cover.
(3)Rachel P.
I had been really excited to come here with a couple of my friends last week. I'd been wanting to check this place out for, well, forever and I finally got my chance. I was scared about the type of songs that a piano bar would play, and at first listen I was right. As I walked in, I heard Billy Joel and Jimmy Buffet back to back. And I was like, dammit, these songs are for drunk people - oh wait, I get it. And soon (a couple of drinks later), I was singing along with the music. I had a damn good time that night. The musicians were really wonderful and all knew how to play their instruments. The drinks were pretty decent and the place pretty clean. Also, this place seems like a great place to throw a party considering all of one's we witnessed that night. Had to take a star off for $5 cover, because that's a bit steep. But you are paying for real live entertainment.
(4)Cheryl H.
I'm keeping this at five stars, but I wanted to add an update about new music trivia! Last night was just the second night of Wednesday night music trivia (and also Columbus' first Unofficial Yelp Event at Big Bang - holla!) and it was a blast! Three rounds of trivia - the first, reminiscent of TV's "Don't forget the lyrics." The second, general music trivia. The third, name that tune! All brought to you by the fabulous talent who rock the pianos and drums on stage, in between songs and requests. Oh, and TEAM YELP COLUMBUS WON! Prize: $25 bar tab. The thing about the Big Bang that I think is very important, is that if you go here with a group of people who you like, you're going to have a great time. If you go here by yourself to MEET people... well, it doesn't seem to be the right place for that. And if you go here on the weekends, you're just crazy. Oh, and the beer selection sucks - I see I forgot to mention that in my first review. But I STILL heart Big Bang! MWAH! - Tuesday: Free slice of pizza with drink purchase - Wednesday: Music trivia - Thursday: Check Twitter (@BigBangColumbus) for a "password" for $2 drinks - Friday and Saturday: Crowded. Avoid.
(5)Sarah F.
Lots of fun!! Went for my friends birthday and had a blast!! She even told me you can bring in your own food or something! How great!!
(5)Mike E.
A dueling piano bar?! Whaaaa? That sounds interesting, right?! It sure does...and about half of Columbus' population is thinking the SAME thing as you! That means, on any given Friday or Saturday night you are going to pay a $6 cover charge to be shoulder-to-shoulder (lucky you if you get a table at this point) with a crapload of other rowdy kids (young professionals in 20s and 30s) and probably about 13 bachelorette parties (literally...usually a baker's dozen of girls wearing wedding veils and skimpy dresses with phallic necklaces). Plus the drinks are not cheap! So...this does not sound fun at all (and it is hardly so, let me tell you). So why then do I give Big Bang 4 stars?! Allow me to explain: BECAUSE any other day of the week you will not have to face this massive crowd of drunk bachelorettes and "Don't Stop Believing" fans...and on many weeknights, you can avoid a cover as well! And on those nights, where there is enough elbow room where you can sit nicely at a table with your friends and get up and go to the bar or restroom at your leisure, it is a GREAT experience. The talent at Big Bang is phenomenal (the blond chick ain't bad to look at either). Seriously...there are great musicians here who switch from one instrument to the next (piano...guitar...drums...etc.) and can sing their bums off (and in key)! The same can NOT be said for the new "Park Street Saloon." Definitely go here (on a weeknight, remember) and prepare to be amazed! Bring some $1 (or even larger bills) for the musicians so they will play your song (the bigger the bill, the more likely they will play it...and they deserve it). I have been here for work parties and a going away party...both on weeknights...and we had the time of our lives. A weekend is a headache more than anything and you can't enjoy the music. They need a bigger place for sure! There's just too much talent to contain in such a small bar :-).
(4)Sarah S.
I've been to the Big Bang a few times since my Groupon experience. I would recommend going on a week night for a more laid back vibe. Also, domestic bottles for $2 and imports for $3 until 10pm. Plus no cover. The musicians only play a select few songs (even though they take "requests") it's still decent entertainment. I wouldn't spend more than an hour or two here, but it's ok to stop by.
(3)Dan H.
I stopped by the 3Bs Big Bang Bar to support our local Yelpers and fellow social media marketing people. It was very slow on a Wednesday night. The piano players were not dueling. I think One of the guys was drooling over the girl on the other set of ivories. I enjoyed watching and listening to the Trivia. That's a great touch. The waitress was always checking in and on top of our needs. This is a great place to come with friends when you feel like you want to sing along to piano music, drink some beer and socialize in between sets. Bathrooms were clean! Parking in the lot on High Street right across the street made it convenient. I had an A-OK time.
(3)Sarah B.
Eh, this place is ok. It's a little full of itself, but maybe that's just because it's the only place like this in town. The drinks and cover make an evening here pricey, and I just don't get it... and I generally prefer pianos to drum sets most of the time. Maybe if there was more room to move around, maybe if the music was less annoying, and maybe if the crowd wasn't so thrilled with itself for being so cultured, I'd like this place more. If I get invited to something else here, I'd probably go, but I wouldn't ever choose to come here.
(3)Laura C.
When this place first opened up, I was there on a regular basis for about the first year. Sadly, it took me that long to realize their schtick! So embarrassed. No matter what sweet 90's song you request on a napkin with some singles, they'll never play it - unless it happens to be within the 20-25 song charade that is the Big Bang (you'll know every song played). If you've never been to a piano bar, then by all means check it out. But one or two visits in your lifetime should suffice. I'd sell you all my surplus visits if I could. You'll of course have to pay cover because ya know, there's talent on stage entertaining you. The most bizarre thing about this place is the air force around it. You see, you have to go down steps to enter Big Bang - like it's underground (it's not a mystical as it sounds). Every single time this place has done spooky things to my cell phone. Weird lights and notifications will start going off that I've never seen before. My phone is never the same after each visit. One time I found a box of Wheat Thins in the bathroom stall. I haven't been back to this place in about 2 years and plan on keeping it that way.
(3)Morgan D.
We went to the grand opening of the Big Bang Dueling Piano Bar last night. What drew us there? It was the free beer and the appetizers and my secret love of piano bars courtesy a good experience at Howl at the Moon in Louisville. My boyfriend Greg was a little skeptical, but he told me multiple times later that he had a great time. It was your typical piano bar scene, a young wait staff and an older crowd. The guys on the staff had shirts on that said Bang This. Our waitress was cute and friendly and took good care of us. I was happy with the beer on tap: Miller Lite, Bud Light, Adams' Winter Lager, a Columbus Ale, Blue Moon, and Guinness. We did get suckered into buying two, $3 shots that were pretty weak. Watch out for the shot girl; she'll getcha. The décor was dark with pendant lights around the bar and sconces on the sidewalls. The sidewall sconces were kind of a pain; I kept hitting my head on the one behind our table. The piano singers were mediocre. The crowd was admittedly working against them. There were a lot of people in the room, but they were all kind of dead. No one even yelled 'Salt! Salt! Where's the damn salt?' during Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville. The younger piano player, the one who had a Neil Patrick Harris resemblance, was the best of the bunch. He could play, he could sing, and he kept the crowd laughing. The female singer was a little pitchy, Dog, and she kept throwing her voice so that it was painfully loud and sharp at times. There was also a bald piano player who kept sticking his tongue out like he was in a Kiss cover band. And there was some other piano player, kind of scruffy with a ball cap; no one paid much attention to him. They played all the stereotypical piano bar songs: Pour Some Sugar on Me, Buttercup, Bennie and the Jets, I Kissed a Girl, and Baby Got Back. Bohemian Rhapsody was probably the most impressive song of the night. Though we requested four (biasedly stated) great songs, none of them were played. Overall, it wasn't as dark, dingy, or fun as Howl at the Moon, but hopefully the Big Bang will progress in that direction. Bathrooms were clean and bright. The hand soap smelled like coconuts.
(4)Matt M.
The Big Bang is a pretty decent piano bar. From what the locals tell me, the talent can play every instrument featured and all are good singers. I must have come on an off night b/c the two male group members were on the mics/pianos so they had the fake rivalry going that happens at all dueling piano bars. Pretty standard song selection that caters to the bachelorette party crowd but that's probably the point. You come to The Big Bang to get a slightly older crowd than what you see at The Lodge or Brothers on a Saturday night. This is a cool place that I'll check out again but the $6 cover charge limits you to 3 stars. You def offer a cool niche to the Columbus bar scene so I will be returning the next time I am in the area. Oh, and when the charges on your credit card show up as "Big Bang Columbus", have a prepared explanation how it's a piano bar, not a stip club!
(3)Jay D.
The Place: Big Bang Bar ("BB") is a decent-sized bar. The entrance to the bar is at the intersection of two alleyway/sidewalk areas in the Nationwide Arena complex. It's right next door to O'Shaughnessy's Pub, and in the same physical structure as Gordon Biersch. BB is dark inside - it's located in a basement and the lights are dim (and get dimmer later in the night). The space is a giant rectangle: enter in the south-west corner, go down a flight of stairs that hug the south-wall, and there's a small bar right in front of you. The rest of the space spreads out towards the north end of the building. On the left side there's a stage and a large seating area. To the right there is another (much larger) bar and standing area. Towards the back of the space you'll find more seating and a bit more standing room. The bathrooms are located in the southeast corner, and are very clean. The Show: as many have noted before me, there is no real "dueling" aspect to the piano-show, as far as I've seen. Rather, the musicians compliment and reinforce each other in their performance. Songs are split up from time to time by the musicians interacting with the audience. Every few songs they will call a birthday-boy or -girl or bachelor or bachelorette up on stage and have them dance or do sing-a-longs or contests or the like. There's almost constant crowd interaction, which is fun. The musicians themselves are okay. Let's be serious (please excuse my harsh heart): there's a reason these gals and guys are playing in a piano bar and not in a concert hall or any other larger venue. They are good, but not better than anyone who's taken a few years of piano lessons and a few years of vocal lessons. BUT it's not really the talent that makes or breaks the experience here. The musicians are great at getting the crowd involved, and they sing a lot of favorites and crowd-pleasers, so my criticism should be taken with a grain of salt. It's a fun time, for sure. The Drinks: 6-or-so beers on draft; nothing special but a CBC seasonal beer. I'd tell you more about the drink offerings, but when we asked for a drink menu we were told there wasn't one. Then we asked for a rundown of the drinks available and got a bit of a bug-eyed stair. Our waitress rattled off the beers available and then also said they had liquor. Not a lot to work with there. HOWEVER, when my girlfriend came up with a recipe on the spot (grape vodka, cranberry juice and sprite), the waitress was glad to have it made. The Service: our waitress was great. She visited often and kept us with a drink in hand. Aside from lacking knowledge about the drinks available, she was great. The Price: $6 cover is not bad at all where live music is concerned. I have no problem paying a cover to see musicians play. The old $15 cover at Sugar (with nothing but a DJ playing top-40) got under my skin much more. The beers were something like $4 or $4.50, while the mixed drinks were in the $6-8 range. Not cheap, for sure. The Food: we didn't order any food (and I'm not sure we could have, given the time of night), but you are allowed to bring some of your own food in for your party, which is a really nice thing. The party next to us had brought chips and a birthday cake. Overall: Big Bang is a ton of fun. The show is non-stop, the songs are fun, the musicians get everyone involved, and it's just a plain-old good time. I'm taking off 2 stars because of the lack of a drink menu and the over-priced drinks, and in part because of the experience described below. But still: recommended. DISCLAIMER: if you come here for your birthday or any type of party (or for ANY reason, really), you may very well be invited up on the stage. When I say "invited," I mean badgered by the musicians and crowd until you go on just to get them to stop yelling at you. For those who expect this (or want it), that's all good. I was at Big Bang for a friend's birthday, and he was not expecting this. He's a shy guy and was upset the musicians kept hounding him to get on stage when he repeatedly (and vehemently) turned down their invitation. It got a bit uncomfortable when they wouldn't stop badgering him. Be warned and be ready!
(3)Robb M.
Try the Big Bang! Dueling Pianos at its finest!
(5)Jen M.
I don't remember a whole lot, but I can say this: 1) Great music 2) Average drinks (price and quality) 3) Clean bathrooms 4) Limited seating I would return, most definitely with a group.
(4)Corey S.
I've been hankering to go to a dueling piano bar for a while now. The pickings for such venues are a little limited in Columbus, and The Big Bang got the best ratings of the two I found. It was a little difficult to find; it's actually behind the building with the address on it. After I found it, I walked to the door, my ID was checked, and I was allowed on in (no cover!). It was a Tuesday night, so the place wasn't very busy - maybe 25 people. The setup is nice - you walk down a staircase into a bar/seating area, with the pianos (and drums, to my surprise) on a stage. I enjoyed myself. There are only a few problems that prevent me from giving a higher rating. Maybe it was the fact it was a Tuesday night, but none of the performers seemed to be energized or really into what they were doing. One of the pianists (Lauren, I think) seemed more concerned about when her next break was going to be than what she was getting paid to do. I wasn't overly impressed by her knowledge of musical repertoire. The guy, Corey, was more into playing music. Though he had a couple lyric slips, he stole the show. What surprised me was the drums. They had a couple drummers, but none of them seemed to take it seriously, and it took away from the music. The sound mixing was iffy at best, and I actually found my ears hurting at one point. The drinks were okay and reasonably priced, Nothing special, but nothing to really detract from it. I'll probably go again, maybe on a busier night.
(3)Meghann T.
I have been living in Columbus for two years and just experienced the Big Bang Piano Bar. I seriously have never had so much fun, and I attribute that to the fact that, 1). My best friend paid for my cover, and 2). I was already hammered from The Patio. All in all, good fun. I was kind of pissed off that I wasn't allowed on stage if I didn't "pay money, like everyone else," as the stage bouncer told me. F*ck you, buddy, I just spent $38 in beer and booze for my friends! Sorry I didn't have enough left over to request a song for $20! Again - I had a blast, but then again, I was drunk and wanted to sing and hear loud noises.
(3)Damon Y.
Great performers and even though there were 7 people there they played like it was packed! Great venue and great drinks!
(5)Becca P.
This place SUCKS!!! I got up to go to the bathroom and some guys took my table, they said FUCK U ! When I went to tell the waitress's she told me too bad!!! WTF!!!
(1)Rachel K.
Big bang is a fun place to go for something a little different. Honestly though it's only worth popping into maybe every 6 mos or so if that. It a always too crowded to move when it gets later and at the times when it's dead they still charge a cover. There is always a cover. In addition, if you actually want your song request to get played the busier it gets the higher your tip attached to that request better be.
(3)Mary M.
This is a really cool idea! However, I had mixed feelings about my experience. The alcohol wasn't terribly expensive, and there were people waiting tables. Tables were hard to get (we went on a late Saturday night). It was crowded and there wasn't anywhere to dance, or really even stand if you didn't get a table. My issue is with the musicians. They are VERY talented instrumentally with halfway decent voices. I was impressed by their range of song selection. However, if you're looking for a classy piano bar, this isn't it. The musicians bring birthday girls and bachelorettes on stage and completely degrade them, taking innocent songs and singing the "adult versions" that talk about the women on stage giving blow jobs and so on. This happened multiple times and even the women on stage were uncomfortable. One particular musician (the bald one with the ball cap) was so over the top, making every song sexual. Why can't it just be fun? I was uncomfortable and disappointed. It doesn't need the oversexed undertones- it's an awesome idea the way it is!!! I wouldn't go again. I'll be looking for a classier place. It's such a shame!
(1)Kimberly B.
Don't bother with this place! The piano players play the songs they want to play and not the requests. The drinks are over priced for what you get, $13 really? All ice! I travel to Columbus often, but it will not be to this bar. Bang, Bang your dead to me!
(1)Kelsey H.
Loved the place I had such a great time there with my husband! Will definitely go again soon. The piano players were great and played a lot of good songs.
(5)Alexis R.
Great entertainment. I wish people were more into dancing here, and if they opened up the floor that'd be possible. The staff was very enthusiastic! Don't bring your uptight folks around here, no restraining these guys :-)
(4)Chelsea J.
Very lively place. They really make it so you can't help but have a good time. Music is played from all genres which I loved. But if you want to go to have a fun night w/ your friends, this is the place. O yeah, audience participation is strongly encouraged!
(4)Danielle H.
Well we stayed here a little too long. We heard the same song(s) a few too many times. Buckets of beer are reasonably priced but like I said, these 4 dude play the same so GS over and over and over....
(3)Joshua R.
I was in Columbus on business and visited this Piano Bar. I have to say I was so impressed from the energy level, types of cool drinks, quality of the crowd, etc... I thought the staff dancing on the pianos and stage from time to time added a really cool and fun dynamic to the experience. I also thought the service was great considering how busy the place was. I also have to say the singers were amazing and really had an ability to keep the customers engaged. I loved it and will be back again.... Just wish they had one in Orlando, Florida ! Maybe they will some day if were lucky :-)
(5)