Set behind unmarked doors, within dimly lit alleyways, or tucked away in another establishment, the speakeasy bar was more than just a place to enjoy a cocktail: it was an experience in itself rooted in the Prohibition era of the detailed 1920s. These Prohibition Era gems have recently reemerged as some of the most stylish and exclusive accessible drinking spots across the globe. What exactly is a Speakeasy Bar? Why are they so popular today? What makes Speakeasy bars extraordinary on the nightlife deck? Let’s take a deep dive into the amazing world of Speakeasies.
A speakeasy bar denotes a style of secretive and often concealed venue that serves alcoholic beverages. The term speakeasy stems from the US Prohibition Era from ‘1920 – 1933’ when the sale and consumption of alcohol was banned. During that period, underground bars thrived quietly and illegally. Hence the term speakeasy implying patrons should “speak easy”, in other words whisper about the place to not attract attention.
While they do stand in contrast to their historical counterparts, modern speakeasies are legal. The thrill remains, as they are equally exclusive and secretive. Their charm lies not only at the destination, but in the journey itself. Wide ranges of attractions including hidden entrances camouflaged as phone booths and entryways masquerading as password protected doors add to the experience.
The Return of the Speakeasy
Amidst a digital everything era, speakeasy bars present an exquisite blend of mystery and authenticity that people crave the most.
A Retreat from The Norm
While normal bars tend to be overly loud and crowded, speakeasies make for a perfect retreat. Vintage decor, jazz music, and low lighting combined with handcrafted cocktails are guaranteed to feel refreshing compared to mainstream nightlife.
Quality and Craftsmanship
Slightly different from normal bars, speakeasies focus on the quality of drinks over the quantity. Offering expertly crafted cocktails made from premium ingredients from curated drink menus is the norm. Most bartenders, or as they are called often, mixologists, treat each drink served as a piece of art.
Exclusivity and Intrigue
The thrill of discovering a hidden entrance to a bar or being able to whisper a secret phrase in order to gain access to something is unmatched. Something about that makes people seek out experiences that are different from the typical nights out. It adds an element of adventure to an otherwise mundane evening.
What to Expect at a Speakeasy Bar
Though no two speakeasy bars are identical, they do have features that differentiate them from a regular bar, including the following:
- Secret Entrances
Every speakeasy is recognized by its signature concealed entrance located behind a bookshelf. It could also be located inside hundred-year-old vending machines, and faux janitor’s closets. The search itself completes the adventure.
- Intimate Ambiance
Hushed and warm environment with a limited amount of seating gives a cozy vibe which makes people want to stay longer. Dim lights, soft clothes, velvet curtains, antique mirrors, and candles on tables make The Great Gatsby feel as if it came alive.
- Specialty Cocktails
Even though the drink menu at speakeasies is small, it is full of surprises with one-of-a-kind cocktails chosen for that speakeasy. Old Fashioneds and Manhattans will be some of the renowned drinks available.
- Dress Code and Vibes
As with any modern-day speakeasy, they’re not always enforced, but vintage-style lingerie and a smart casual dress can make the experience much more elegant, as if one was traveling through time.
Where To Look For A Speakeasy: Tips and Tricks
The thrill of looking for a hidden location only a select few people know about is a challenging and fun adventure.
Browse the Internet: Internet blogs, Reddit posts, nightlife guides rarely promote this type of activity openly but are sure to list speakeasies.
Monitor Social Media: Food bloggers and social media influencers have an unending supply of under-appreciated locations such as these.
Sometimes the best suggestions come from people who reside in the area.
Explore Clues: Look around popular themed areas like restaurants or even hotel basements, some speakeasies are set in places where you would least expect.
Next Generation Speakeasy Bars
Like many suspected, the speakeasy bar is yet another absurd trend, but make no mistake, the wide range of experiences and the immersive atmosphere combined with the authenticity makes it stand out. In the modern world where buying experience after experience fades into the cliched routine of consumerism, we are blessed with unique additions to urban nightlife.
A few others are taking it a step further by pairing cocktails with live entertainment such as jazz, burlesque shows, or even themed nights when patrons come in 1920s outfits. Others are merging the concept with fine dining or elevating it further with rooftop views.
With everything simply a click away, the appeal of something that is hidden or feels earned is quickly becoming a rarer sight. This defines the elusiveness and power of speakeasy bars—they offer not just a drink, but an experience.
Conclusion
With the allure of the unexpected, in addition to the bold flavors of handcrafted cocktails, a visit to a speakeasy is essential—whether you are a cocktail enthusiast or not. It is an intersection of modern luxury and history, craftsmanship and mystery, and with every visit—an escape into a new world.
Next time you plan a night out, try to avoid the obvious. Instead, seek that door that lacks proper signage—and get ready to let the magic unfold.