I feel like I’m betraying the New Orleans food culture by simply talking about drinking.  Probably the best food city we have visited.  But for this trip, we were there for Tales of the Cocktails, the annual industry conference for bar owners, bartenders, brands, and all alcohol trades and enthusiasts.  And wow, were we underprepared yet blown away by this conference.  All the sessions, all the tastings, so much information and so much fun.  Not to state the obvious, but you can’t out-drink or out-party people in the bar industry.

We had limited speakeasies, so I am going to talk about them and then cover a few drinking spots that we found to be absolutely worth your trip.

The Vault

The Vault is a relatively new (one year old as of July 2026 writing). A small venue at the Westin New Orleans Hotel.  It is invite only, you can contact the hotel if you are a guest or find someone in the know.  We know, and we love the exclusivity. We were invited for a 400 Conejos night and were very excited after talking with Nathan, the bar manager.  Spoiler: Nathan is going on our best people of 2026 list!

The Entrance

Take the elevator by the valet entrance to the 11^th floor, the elevators open to this amazing bar called Observatory Eleven. Gorgeous floor-to-ceiling windows and fantastic decor, and huge round bar. But that is not why you are there, don’t get too distracted.  At the bar let them know you are there for The Vault and they will call someone to come get you.  This is all I can tell you, because I value the secrecy of their experience. But just go with the guy who comes out, trust that all will be as it is supposed to be.

The Experience

There is a secret knock.  There is a little surprise awaiting you when they open the door and you will momentarily feel like “WHAT? What is THIS?”  But trust your sisters.  When you are led to your seat you will feel the ambiance, the prohibition era-feel with the fireplace, decor, and attention to details that was put into this room.  The room has a reddish glow, but the overhead lighting has that antique feel where they flicker every once in a while, and if it isn’t intentional, it works.  On the record player is Post-Modern Jukebox, which is high on my list of great music.

The cocktail list is developed by only the bar manager and the two bartenders; there are typically 5 drinks on the rotating menu.  The ingredients can be a little out there, but they work together and make an amazing palate boost.  We were blessed with some one-on-one time with Nathan and the bartender of the night, Vickey.  We were treated to stories of how The Vault came into existence, Vickey’s background story (which was brief but amazing) and his creations will blow your mind when you find out he only has 2 years of experience (of not just bartending, but drinking alcohol!!).

This night was spectacular.  Going on our best bars list, going to be raved about for a long time to come, and Nathan and Vickey will be on our Best People of 2026 list.

The Shaker Rating

Definitely hidden.  Task to get in (reservations and a knock). Theme is a great 1920’s feel.  Service is beyond all expectations, kind, informative, and warm.  Cocktails were fantastic. Our first was a mezcal and saffron creation of Vickey’s, but also a limoncello espresso martini, and my Silk and Saffron spiced rum, cardamom, cherry, pineapple, mango explosion was incredible.  The Vault absolutely gets a well-deserved 5-Shaker rating.

Sister Side Note (ssn) – this was truly one of the most enjoyable experiences we’ve had. Vickey has a exceptional palate for pairing spirits and savory flavors. The Mezcal Sultan (the drink Patti mentioned above) was one of the best mezcal cocktails I’ve ever had.

Tragos Amargos

Inside Taquerias Carnalito on Poydras Street.  Go get yourself a taco, it smelled and looked so good.  Tragos Amargos was new, it had only been open for weeks as of July 2026.

The Entrance

In the corner of the taqueria is a juke box, select the Tragos Amargos song on the juke box and then hit play.  This will open the door to a small mirrored, red-lit room, where the hostess will greet you and take you past the hostess stand and into the bar.

The Experience

Tragos Amargos feels very 70’s disco era, with a balcony overlooking the bottom floor, the wood accents, and a DJ setup at the oblong center bar.  Music was good and not so loud that we couldn’t talk.

Calvin was awesome, funny, and engaging.  He explained the three categories of cocktails very well – the savory page, the page of classics, and the page where the cocktail changes from the first sip to the finishing taste.  When Peggy didn’t like one of her drinks, he said “yeah, I feel the same way, I just couldn’t tell you what to like and not like” and then he easily got her a new cocktail.  My cocktail was called Chilla Killers (like Chilaquiles, one of my favorite breakfasts), it was so unique and won best of the table. Loved our experience at Tragos.

The Shaker Rating

Definitely a shaker for service. A shaker for the cocktails, although weird, they did work and were exactly as described.  A shaker for the cool jukebox task to get in (and reservation are suggested).  And a shaker for theme. And a shaker for hidden.  Tragos Amargos did an amazing job and definitely deserves the 5-Shaker.

Potions

We did not get to experience Potions, due to a private party (and you know how that pisses us off – keep those things confined to a Tuesday night).  However, we had a new Tales of the Cocktail friend make it there the evening before, so we are including her reviews; if you know the Tales experience and friendships made, you understand our trust.

The Entrance

Pations is located inside Fritzel’s European Jazz Club on Bourbon Street, you must first go a block around the corner to the Vampyre Boutique.  They have your password and go check out some of the local artistry from the NOLA vampire enthusiasts while you are there.  There is a card they will give you, you take it back to Fritzel’s to the courtyard in the back.  Find the gate keeper/bouncer/security/Crypt Keeper.  Hand him your card and tell him, “The vampire sent me”.  (this is as far as we got before being told NO).

The Experience

The words that come to mind are “Victorian” or maybe “Gothic”. Let’s just say, if you are an Anne Rice fan, this is your new bar. Are you already picturing Red Velvet? You know it’s got red velvet, mood lighting, wrought iron, heavy drapes, mirrors, antique furniture. Lestat would be found here if he were in New Orleans. Sticking to the speakeasy theme, it is not just low lit, it is low noise, stepping off Bourbon Street, this is definitely a chill, moody vibe. Please, please, please take this for what it is, a nod to the taboo, underground, goth experience and not view it as a cheesy over themed bar; they nailed this for the intention behind it. Go fill your vampire hidden desires, soak it in, and drink it up.

The Shaker Rating

One for Hidden. One for Task. The cocktails lean into an apothecary/potion, name to match like “nightshade”, so we are giving it a shaker for cocktails. We are taking it down a half a shaker for mediocre service, but understand that Tales is a long drinking week, and it was packed. It is a full shaker for theme, but like I said, know what you are going into, embrace it, and have fun with it.

Double Dealer

Double Dealer is located in the basement of the Orpheum Theater, literally 600 ft away from our hotel!  They are only open Thursday to Saturday, so we had one shot since we were leaving on Friday.  And of course, there was a private party on Thursday.  Boo!  Confine that shit to Mondays and Tuesdays. HARRUMPH!!!

And this looked so cool too, it was the one I was most looking forward to.

Now, I pout.

We will try to catch them next time.

More Drinking in New Orleans

Jewel of the South

Starting off strong in New Orleans, we hit up Jewel of the South for a Tales of the Cocktail event.  Walkable from our hotel on Canal Street, we entered through the outdoor patio that was shaded from the sun and had its own outside bar. We were in desperate need of some air conditioning, so we headed inside.  A gorgeous inside bar in dark wood keeps the atmosphere feeling intimate. 

The staff is what makes the Jewel of the South absolutely outstanding!  The attention and care shown by the staff is what makes this one of the best places for a sit down, craft cocktail evening.  Food is spectacular, get one of everything, share with your friends, but try it all.  Go have a romantic evening, go take the girls, or take your sister, just have a night of feeling pampered and spoiled by life.

ssn – Jewel of the South was recently awarded Number 6 on the 50 Best Bars in North America.

Latitude 29

Do you love a good tiki bar?  We do!  But do you like loud and tacky or subtle and fun?  We are in for both, but there is definitely a difference, and they each have their place. Latitude 29 is the subtle and fun version.  Owned by Tiki legend Beachbum Berry, known for having revitalized the Tiki movement.  He is the guru and has done it up for us in New Orleans. Lots of straw and bamboo decor, great lighting and fabulous tiki drinks, tiki glasses, and wood carvings taking you right into the heart of a Polynesian paradise.

We shared a Jet Pilot for the table, because sometimes you need a huge bowl of alcohol and a lot of straws.  Jet Pilot?  Should be renamed Jet Fuel!  Whoa, make sure you share with everyone!

We worked our way through several more drinks, the food was awesome, the atmosphere and service was on point. It was a great night spent with great friends. A little bit away from the hustle of Bourbon Street, but still in the French Quarter.  It is worth the deviation from the party crowd.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop

An iconic New Orleans bar that is worth visiting. It is old, like really old.  And said to be haunted by the ghost of Jean Lafitte (privateer, entrepreneur, sailor, diplomat, spy – dear Jean did it all).  Lafitte was known in New Orleans at the man who could get things (akin to Red from Shawshank). This spot used to be an old blacksmith shop and is the said to be the oldest structure used as a bar in the US, dating back to the 1700’s.

What this means for your visit is an aged brick building with a huge fireplace in the middle.  It feels slightly dirty, but in a charming, old-fashioned way, not in a “didn’t clean” kind of way.  The history here speaks for itself.  Previously frequented by Truman Capote and Tennessee Williams, it is now a little more understated but absolutely belongs on your To Be Visited list for drinking in NOLA.

Pat O’Briens

Another New Orleans institution for drinking, I was hesitant because I was picturing loud, tacky, touristy and nothing I needed in my life.  Then I visited!  Several rooms down a hallway, to a back patio with a bar, and two extra rooms and the far end of the patio with two other bars. This is absolutely worth stopping in for a Hurricane. Oh yes, Pat O’s is famous for its Hurricanes.

We opted for the dueling pianos bar, and even at 4 in the afternoon it was happening and fun.  I would love to sit on the patio when it is not 97 degrees outside, so I’ll add that to my list and yours for spring and fall great patio places.  Still get the Hurricane, just to say you did it.  And pop into some of the other rooms and bar spaces and find your comfy spot.

ssn – Pat O’Brien’s is just mandatory. Full stop. Drunk on Hurricane’s, singing along with the Dueling Piano’s is just an unmatched New Orleans experience.

Old Absinthe House

This is Bourbon Street, well, how I want Bourbon Street to be, minus the “Gentleman’s Clubs” and the frozen daiquiri stands.  Old, classic, and boozy.  Just a big bar in the middle, standing side rails, and decor that has been there for many, many decades, including cards and drawings on the wall from patrons. This is where you want a standard, classic cocktail, no gimmicks, no hoity-toity weird creations, just a solid drinking establishment.

The Alibi

The Alibi is just a great dive bar.  Near Bourbon St, just about a block back from Canal Street is this fantastic dive bar. Dark, no windows, a long bar, tall tables, a great staff, and great drink specials.  The Alibi checks every box for what we want in a downtown drinking spot.  Fantastic music pumping in, and we can’t fail to mention the $5 extra-large Everclear Jello shots served in plastic syringes. 

Sazerac Bar

A New Orleans classic bar.  This one is in the Waldorf Astoria, and is beautiful and upscale, and bougie.  And we loved it.  Plus, we loved the huge group there for the Terri’s Divorce Parade, matching T-shirts, signs, and great attitudes.  The Sazerac was strong, but the Ramos Gin Fizz that gets rave reviews I found to be not cold, not fizzy, and not impressive beyond the amazing foam top.  The room was beautiful, but the drinks did not wow us.  However, if you want a classic, Sazerac Bar is the place to you want to start your drinking experience.

ssn – bonus – the Waldorf greeted us with champagne, just for walking in the door!

Backspace Bar

We are including this as we popped in during a FIFA match, and all the bars around were packed.  The Backspace is a long skinny bar, tables and chairs for patrons to the right.  Not huge, not spectacular, just a good ol’ drinking spot.  The food looked amazing, the drinks were great, including a boozy peach tea that was reminiscent of Savannah, a berry gimlet, they do classic cocktails with a twist – nothing outlandish or funky, but some great options for ingredients you have heard of in flavors you crave.

However, the bartender hilariously didn’t understand the concept of no ice in your water, so they probably aren’t going to make you something wild and exotic unless you are very specific with what you want.

New Orleans Wrap-up

We clearly did not get to enough spots but Tales of the Cocktail really kept us busy! But the thing about New Orleans is that there is always plenty of food to eat and plenty of drinks to drink! You almost cannot go wrong!

Other Speakeasy Guides

• Our Ultimate List & Ratings of US Speakeasies
• Las Vegas
• San Diego
• Austin
• Chicago
• Seattle
• Denver
• Colorado (outside of Denver)
• Kansas City
• Paris
• London

Others in the Day Drinking Series

• Savannah
• Seattle
• Boise
• Dallas
• Reno
• Kansas City
• Santa Fe

How do you not love Boston?  I mean, except for the middle of summer when it is hot and humid, or in the middle of winter when it is really damn cold and snowy.  But besides that, how do you not love Boston?  The history, the food, the Red Sox, the bars, and now, our Speakeasy Guide to help you plan your journey.

I hadn’t been to Boston in decades (3 of them or so), for Peggy it had been a few years, so we decided that would be our June trip and we were anxious to get planning.

Boston was hit and miss for us as far as speakeasies, but I won’t give all that away right here in the third paragraph.  There were drinks to be had, and venues to explore, and we were off and excited to see how the east coast is embracing the speakeasy-like culture of hidden bars.

Brick and Mortar

First stop, right off the plane. We dropped our luggage and headed out to beat the Saturday night crowds.

The Entrance

In Cambridge, on a cool little street, it did have a sign, although small.  It was mostly unmarked except for a small plaque above the door.  Next to a pot shop that was previously a restaurant, open the almost unmarked door to a staircase and head on up. If you look it up on Google images, most of them still show the neighbor as the restaurant, pay attention to the shape of the awning not the name or color.

The Experience

This is a tough one for us. We loved the room, the feel, the old wood secluded feel.  It was what we wanted in a speakeasy.  Although, it really did not have a theme, and the service was mediocre (if I’m being polite and generous).

The cocktails were a highlight.  The Darling Nikki Vesper was fairly high octane, but tasty.  The Apollo Sunshine was fresh and lovely.  We noticed a trend away from weird ingredients lately and towards calling out the brand names giving specialty cocktail feel rather than a “wtf is that” feel.  We support this.

ssn – foreshadowing, “no weird ingredients” theme that we have been experiencing in other cities would not hold.  A couple of stops in Boston would really get into the outer realms of weird ingredients! I’m looking at you Hecate and Offsuit.

The Shakers

Brick and Mortar had great reviews online.  We were disappointed but acknowledge that it is probably fun in the later hours when it gets a little crowded and loud and the bartenders find their groove for the night.  However, no shaker for hidden or task to get in, giving them only half a shaker for service, because she wasn’t rude, she just wasn’t on the ball or interested in being there.  I’m giving it half for theme, simply because I loved the brick, the copper bar, and the picture menus with the QR codes that were artsy and tied the room together.

While we enjoyed the vibe and cocktails, it is still only scoring a 2-shaker rating (cringing and apologizing inside for that).

The Wig Shop

The Wig Shop comes with some hype and some industry cred at #86 on the World’s Best list for North America.  And although we absolutely loved The Wig Shop, and it is a 100% recommend from us, it is a bit of a conundrum.  I’ve reflected back on it several times, so let’s just get to the meat of The Wig Shop and hopefully, you will see why.

The Entrance

Awesome.  Awesome entrance.  From the side street it looks like a wig shop, with dummy heads (like the hair stylist kind, not the political kind) with different wigs.  There is a neon sign that simply says “WIGS”, it definitely does not look like a bar.

The Experience

Enter through the door and there is a second door that leads into the speakeasy. You are greeted by a hostess, you will need a reservation from 5:00 to 7:00 pm (available one week in advance) otherwise, it’s first come. It is an intimate space with blue loveseats and red velvet chairs.  Sheer peach curtains separate the space into individual seating areas.  Reservations for two will find you sitting and sharing a space with another party of two, they encourage socializing and conversation.

ssn – our seating partners were obviously on a first date.  We thought they might be fun but they were just awkward.  Haha.  But we did get some giggles at watching them inch closer and closer with some halted physical contact as the 90-minute time limit drew to a close.

The drinks are all fun, throwback-toy themed.  There is a Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots and a My Little Pony.  Their menu is a little book with pictures and stories of the game, toy, or show (in the case of He-Man Go), and then a description of the drink.  The drinks were fantastic! Definitely unique and inventive.  But so good we had a second round. “One if by land, Two if by your sister”, or whatever Paul Revere said.

The Shakers

So, now comes the conundrum.  The room is elegant, the bar at the back and the entire floor space just flowed beautifully.  BUT the drinks are fun and playful, in complete contrast to the room feel. The service was ok, nothing to brag about, but it was good.

We loved our experience, but this is one of those sucky times when our shaker system truly is objective and it makes us a little sad.  It is only getting half for lack of task, half for the service, and nothing for theme, because of the contrast.  With one shaker for being hidden, one for cocktails, and The Wig Shop – that we loved – is only getting 3 Shakers.

ssn – I’m going to disagree (but only slightly).  I think the menu itself was themed (even though it is in contrast to the venue theme) – and it was well-thought out and committed to the childhood memories and imagination.  So, I would go half shaker for that, giving 3.5 Shakers.

Next Door

Straight from our two-drink success at The Wig Shop, we headed to Next Door, somewhere in East Boston.

The Entrance

Next Door is located inside a neighborhood restaurant in East Boston, their website doesn’t give it away, so we won’t either.  Inside the restaurant, give the host your name and you will be directed to the hidden entrance through the back patio.  Once the concealed door opens, you will have to give a password (provided by the host) through a speakeasy peep-window.  It was very cute, the door was a little reminiscent of the confessional inside Oculto 477 in San Diego.

The Experience

The small, cave shaped room was pretty and sophisticated, with a beautiful bar and a few plush seating sections.  We had seats at the bar (as you know, that is our preference).  Again, we were next to a first-dater couple.  Boston, do you have a hot dating scene?  There are rules such as no active wear, no hats/caps, keep it classy.

The drinks were fun and interesting, service was chatty and engaging.  So we were pretty happy except for the lack of interaction with other customers.  We had met a group waiting in the restaurant for their Next Door entry – they were celebrating a birthday and we did a Green Tea Shot with them.  They were across the room, having a great time!

I think I would say that the cocktails were complex, with interesting ingredients.  I had the Squid Games with gin, passion fruit syrup, and blue spirulina; topped with a tomate de arbol foam.  I don’t like tomato so I was a little leery but it was delicious.  Peggy had Mahalo, something bourbon and tropical in a bootie-shaped glass that was super cute.

At some point, the staff broke into the calm to celebrate a couple of birthdays with bubble machines, shots and blasting 50 Cent “Go Shorty, It’s Your Birthday” (In da Club).  It lasted only a couple of minutes, but it got everyone in the bar happy and cheering along.  We are awarding 4.5 shakers – one each for hidden, task, service, drinks, and a half for theme.  Next Door was chic and just lively enough to be a great date spot.

Hecate

Hecate might have been our most anticipated hidden bar in Boston.  It was the most hyped (from a social media perspective), it makes the World’s Best list for North America at #88, and it is occult themed – Hecate was the Greek goddess of magic and witchcraft.

The Entrance

The entrance was surprisingly hard to find.  Information online told us it was below Krasi Meze and Wine bar, but entry is through a door in the Public Alley 443.  We struggled a bit to find it but then saw well-dressed people coming out of a gate labeled “Select Oyster Bar”.  Through that gate and down the alley (where our mother always tells us not to go, but Peggy keeps insisting that’s where all the fun is) is a black door with a gold emblem.  Once inside the door, go down the stairs into a dark-walled waiting area where you can check in with the hostess.  You will be shown through the brass chain curtain into the intimate bar area.

The Experience

Hecate was completely immersive; we are not in Boston anymore!  The interior is very dark and a little mystical, and has a feel of a dark cave where you might run into the Graea (reference your Greek Mythology).  Very small seating groups surround an 8-seater bar where the bartender was the star of the show.  She was masterful and the drinks were a performance to watch.

The drink menu was focused on the occult and behind each cocktail was a legend, spell, lore that was visible only by using the small blacklight pen that was provided. Very cool.

Our drinks were fantastic, but definitely some off the wall ingredients that we had never heard of – I had the Tides of Bujan served in a small wooden box, with vodka, duck fat, roasted bellflower, Branca Menta, wormwood, lemon, and egg. Peggy had the Palo Caldero which was beautiful and served in a small black cauldron with a bright red flower garnish, with a mix of rums, hibiscus tea, ugu leaf, palo santo, black peppercorn, almond, burnt cinnamon.

We are going with four shakers – full shakers for hidden, theme, drinks, and half for task and service.  The bartender was amazing and very interactive with the people seated at the bar, but the table service was just ok (as we were learning might be a Boston norm?).

Wink & Nod

Like Brick & Mortar, we probably wouldn’t be including Wink & Nod except that you will find it on any list that you google so we will tell you about our experience.

The Entrance

Nothing hidden here, there is a gold plaque on the doorway outside of this upscale entry.  Once inside, Wink & Nod is a large space, with lots of table seating and a good size bar area.  It is a beautiful bar and definitely going for the modern “nod” to the prohibition era.

The Experience

First thing to note was that the service was fabulous – from the manager that sat us to the bartenders.  Some of the friendliest and most chatty of the trip.  W&N has an extensive spirits collection and a classic drink menu with some cool variations.  This was a solid visit, but as far as our rating system, we are only going with 3 shakers – service, drinks, theme.

The Blind Duck

The Blind Duck is inside The Raffles Boston, and you know Peggy’s bougie ass loves a Raffles.  Spoiler alert, I didn’t think about it until just now, but we didn’t have a Sling while we were there, guess we aren’t filling out that Bingo card square.

The Entrance

It is a Raffles, it is beautiful, from the lobby to the amazing orchids on the top floor.  By the way, The Blind Duck is on the top floor.  It is unmarked except for a wooden door with a duck on it at the end of a hall on the opposite side of the elevators from the advertised restaurant.

The Experience

The Blind Duck was everything you expect from a Raffles.  The service was amazing, the view was fantastic, and the drinks were top tier.  You enter through the duck door to the reception area; there is a smaller bar on that floor, or you can take a winding staircase down a level to the bigger bar with floor to ceiling windows and to-die-for skyline views.

We were lucky enough to get bar seats and were there on a night with a saxophonist playing live soft jazz.  It is truly beautiful with the windows and the lighting, with comfy chairs and couches.  It is fancy, and upscale, and was absolutely lovely.  Sadly, it is only getting 3 shakers since there is no task to get in and really no theme beyond being a classy, beautiful Raffles level experience.

ssn – I agree with the scoring but can’t believe that Patti didn’t throw in a bonus half shaker for her cocktail.  She had a Souffle Espresso Martini with brown sugar souffle foam on top.  Mine was equally impressive, a Golden Ratio.  Bourbon with miso caramel topper that you break with a tiny hammer!!  I love an interactive moment!

Offsuit

The Entrance

This was the most authentic hidden entrance.  An actual unmarked door in an alley with a sign taped to it telling you to keep your voices down – so as not to disturb the neighbors. You call the number on the door and they come get you.  Inside is a cozy, intimate space that seats a couple of people at the bar and a few small groups along the wall.  There did seem to be a small private room for a bigger party.

The Experience

Offsuit was Peggy’s favorite stop of the trip.  There was something casual but yet elevated about it. Maybe that’s just the drinks talking.  You can have a super inventive, crazy ingredient cocktail (I told you we’d get there), or a PBR and shots.  But in a chic environment.  I don’t know, it was kinda perfect.

We did end up having two each (again, in honor of Paul Revere) because they were irresistible.  Peggy had her current contender for Best Sip of 2026 – I’ll let her talk about it in the ssn.  I had the Stolen Lighter (tequila, toasted sesame, carrot, coconut cream, acidified orange and cilantro) and Radio Silence (Irish whiskey, pickled strawberry, toasted coconut, caramelized onion). 

ssn – my favorite sip of the year (so far) has to be the Vibe Check (Planteray OFTD, amaro, graham cracker, yellow curry, masala chai, salted yogurt).  Don’t sleep on this, it was amazing and I am currently loving a savory cocktail.  My second course was Tuxedo Connection (Angel’s Envy Rye, clarified butter pecan ice cream, chardonnay, shiitake).  It was also good, but a little too sweet for me.

The Shakers

Offsuit is a solid 4.5 shakers. Full shakers for the great entrance and task, service and drinks. Not sure I would call this a theme but the menu is tied into a playing card idea (off-suit) but not connected to the decor. So half shaker there.

Loyall Counting Room

This was what the phrase “finishing strong” was made for.  It was our last stop, and it was definitely up there for the best of the trip.

The Entrance

Go to the Intercontinental Hotel, right down on the water and almost exactly where the original Boston tea party was held (and here’s a hint:  it’s a great place to re-enact the event and protest unfair government practices).  You check in at the reservation desk at Bar Fellini, they will present you with a scroll and point you to an unmarked door.  The door opens up to a room filled with glass shelves and knick knacks. Find the right drawer, place the scroll in the drawer.  When someone comes into the room to greet you, you must give them the password that was included in your scroll. 

The Experience

And out came our Main Man Rey!!! Yay Rey!  Rey led us into a long warm room, with a long, wrap-around bench seat along one wall, small tables and accompanying chairs.  Bar on one end, wood paneling, yellowish lighting, and small mirrors.  The book of drinks contains background on the history of the drink (or main ingredients), little mini-stories filled with historical gems.  The service wear have a handmade, antique feel.

There is a small beverage cart towards the back of the room, where Rey would prepare certain cocktails, making the evening feel more immersive.  Then when serving your order, Rey presents you with more historical facts, told with flair instead of as a history lecture.  And honestly, the stories were quite fascinating, like the shipping of ice chunks from Canadian icebergs prior to ice houses and electricity.  I had the Tippling House Punch, that was poured out of an old silver tea set. Peggy had the Cherry Bounce in a pewter goblet (George Washington’s signature drink).

The Shakers

Loyall Counting Room was so much fun. They get our only 5-shaker score in Boston. Hidden, task, service, theme, drinks!!

Boston Wrap-up

We had the best time exploring this historic city! Look for our day-drinking post (coming soon) and discover more of the fun and revolutionary places that we visited. Our HUGE regret of the trip is that we missed the Scottish FIFA invasion by a week. Major FOMO!! But we, too, were enamored with the city, its sights, its culture and its drinking establishments.

Other Boston Speakeasies and Hidden Bars

We did not make it to these spots but they are on our radar for next time. If you’ve been, give us some details in the comments!

• Extra Dirty Cocktail Club – a pre-paid, all inclusive tasting menu format that includes small bites. We were dying to try it but it would have been a full evening commitment.
• Farmacia – another curated tasting experience that we could not have done justice to on a night packed with other bars.
• Carrie Nation – a well-known tourist destination (that clearly says “Speakeasy” on the signage). We did walk through on our way back to our hotel one night but the “speakeasy” portion behind the red-velvet curtain was not serving. There were a lot of people in there and it seemed like a great time but we must have just missed out.
• The Gallery at Yvonne’s
• The Red Fox
• Modern Pastry Underground – we did go here. It is quite literally, just a bar in the basement. However, great breakfast cocktails and their world famous cannoli without waiting in line!
• Backbar – we actually went to Backbar but there was a private party (it was Harvard and MIT graduation weekend) and the line to get in was crazy! We have heard great things!
• Bar Pallino
• 1928 Beacon Hill – is there a secret bar in the library?
• D16
• Roxy’s Arcade

Other Speakeasy Guides

• Our Ultimate List & Ratings of US Speakeasies
• Las Vegas
• San Diego
• Austin
• Chicago
• Seattle
• Denver
• Colorado (outside of Denver)
• Kansas City
• Paris
• London

I was excited to return to La Jolla this spring.  San Diego is one of my favorite cities in the United States.  The beach vibe, the surfer hippy feel, palm trees, and no worries.  It all seems to blend into happiness under the San Diego sunshine.

In line with our newly established tradition of watching a destination-themed movie at the start of our trip, we watched Anchorman on our first afternoon. One of the truly funniest Will Ferrell movies. As you know, San Diego was “Discovered by the Germans in 1904, they named it San Diego, which of course in German means a whale’s vagina”, per Ron Burgundy.

San Diego

My expectations were low for speakeasies, simply because it is such a laid-back beach town vibe of a city.  Even Old Town and Little Italy seem more relaxed than many similar neighborhoods in other states.

Clearly, I was wrong.  We were amazed, again and again, at the upscale, big city feel of some of these locations.  It felt like they were ready to compete against New York City and Tokyo for a spot among leaders in the speakeasy world.

Let’s jump right in with the leader of all things La Jolla, the big dog if you will:

Raised By Wolves

Owned by the CH Group, they are THE spot to be in La Jolla right now.  They are past recipients of awards from the 50 Best Bars in North America, Esquire Magazine Best Bars, Cocktail Bar of the Year, and Tales of the Cocktail World’s Best Spirits Selection Award.  But that tells you nothing in detail, just an expectation of excellence, so let’s talk deets.

The Entrance

Super Cool!  Just Super Cool.  Hidden inside a bottle shop that sells real bottles (and some exquisite high-end selections for you label snobs out there), reservations are a must!  Check in at the bottle shop counter.  When your seats are ready you will be escorted over to a large fireplace, with two seats – one on either side.

And just like you are in a Clue movie (or Knives Out, for modern times), the fireplace rotates around and you find yourself inside the bar.

The Experience

We were already super excited about the means of entry; this was soon set aside when you see the room.  A large domed ceiling (think Harry Potter Gringotts’ dome), and large circular bar in the center of the room under the dome, and a large fountain in the center of the bar.

With an art deco, 1920’s feel, you are definitely feeling transported to a different time.  This is not only due to the full turn of the fireplace shutting out the outside world, but also the lack of windows, and low lighting, it is a full atmospheric transformation.

The Drinks

The book-style drink menu is expansive and separated by style of the drink “refreshing”, “Direct”, etc, to help you move right into your preference easily.  I opted for the Purple Moon Cobbler – which did taste very much like a berry cobbler – cachaca, sherry, black sesame, red bean paste, and ube.  I was only slightly let down that it wasn’t a brighter bolder purple from the Ube, but overall, the drink was a savory-sweet without being sugary. Definitely a creation I could get behind.

Peggy opted for the “First Course”, her first in a series of savory cocktails on this trip, featured Vodka, goat cheese, a hint of peach, with an olive oil and balsamic finish.  First sip was a bit shocking, but it definitely smoothed out after that first punch, into a velvety wonderful creation for the palette.

Overall

The crowd was not so fun.  The servers were too busy to give you any actual individual attention.  While the entrance was cool, there was a wait inside the bottle shop to get in, so it was not a surprise as you stood around and watched others enter. They could benefit by sectioning off this area for a more exclusive feel.  And there were plenty of signs and wolves out front.  It is getting a 4-Shaker from us, demoted 1/2 each for lack of service and lack of mystery,

Sister Side Note (ssn) – don’t let the 4-Shaker dissuade you, Raised by Wolves has the Wow factor and is worth the visit. It was one of our favorite experiences of the trip, It is just very much a fast-paced bar with little time for personal interaction. We found it fascinating that there was a bartender assigned to make drinks for the tables – and he was cranking them out, at an impressive speed. The bartenders taking care of those of us seated at the bar were the showmen. Slower, deliberate and artisan.

The Grass Skirt/Captain’s Quarters

Our second site in San Diego is in Pacific Beach.  It apparently used to be hidden in a sushi bar.  They have remodeled and the outside is definitely Tiki; you will know it when you arrive. Although, The Grass Skirt (GS) and The Captain’s Quarter’s (CQ) are two separate bars, we are listing them together as they share a building and kitchen.

The Entrance

There is a sign on the street for GS, but not for the CQ almost like CQ is the real hidden gem of a speakeasy.  You do enter through the same street door; the door is unmarked but is tiki décor and travel related.  There is seating outside like a waiting area, so it is not getting any points for being hidden.  You enter the door into a functioning kitchen.  A slight travel theme seems in the works, but not complete, there are old suitcases by the register and travel signs.

If your reservation is for GS, you will be taken to the entrance through an industrial freezer door.  If you are hitting up CQ, the entrance is completely hidden in the tile wall to the right of the register.

The Experience

Completely different experiences.  GS is Tiki bar themed; it has fire drinks and is loud and fun.  It’s Tiki, but not over the top tacky tiki.  We loved the feel of it, it is a well-done tiki bar complete with Pain Killers, Mai Tais, and Zombies.  They have party punch bowls, which set off thunder and a light show while being served. You definitely get a good Tiki experience, if that is your jam. 

CQ is a little more subtle and laid back.  It is a nautical theme and feels more like you are on a big wooden ship inside the captain’s room (or, well, duh, his quarters).  Pick your vibe, pick you side of the building, we kind of liked that.

Overall

We were a little put off by the big “Grass Skirt” sign out front and the whole outside Tiki look to the building, there are also spots where you can see into the GS patio, so it is definitely not hidden.  If you can see it, I am sure you can hear it as well.  We were additionally put off by the fact that children are allowed in bars in California.  We love kids, but I can’t imagine taking my kids to a bar, especially a tiki bar. I just do not feel it is appropriate and don’t want to go to a bar to hang out with kids.

Captain’s Quarters is getting a 4-shaker, for being actually hidden, while the Grass Skirt does get dinged for average service and the sign out front so only gets a 3.5 shaker – neither has a task to get in, but do require the hostess to let you in through the secret doors.  Both did have commitment to theme and good drink selections.

Realm of the 52 Remedies

Yes, it’s a mouthful. It’s also worth remembering that name.  Located in the Asian Pacific neighborhood of Convoy, just north of downtown San Diego.  Realm ended up being one of my favorites of the trip (once I stopped tripping up on the name).

The Entrance

Inside Common Theory Pub House, at the hostess stand let them know you have reservations (you will want reservations).  Your lovely host (ours was Brian, he was fabulous) will lead you into the remedy room, just behind the host stand. 

The little room has apothecary jars and herbs used in Traditional Chinese Medicine.  There is a door filled with Chinese characters, just simply select the correct character and the door will open for your visit into the Realm. 

The Experience

From moment one, you feel the vibe.  The magic door doesn’t lead directly into the room; it leads to a dark hallway that leads to the room.  This creates a feeling of mystery and exclusivity.

The bar room has an Asian ambiance, a little dark, a little quiet, a little upscale Asian backroom secrecy feel.  Oh, look, I just described a perfect speakeasy!  The cocktails were unique, but not weird, incorporating elements of a Chinese apothecary.  Ingredients that could be use for healing and definitely enhance the flavor.  Think teas, bitter melon, sesame, herbal and floral hints, and Pocari sweat (electrolytes).  Peggy opted for Saigon Dreamer, with whiskey, cream, coffee, and pineapple that works amazingly well together (yes, coffee works with pineapple and lemon).  I had the Kasato Maru with yuzu, pear, jasmine tea with a cachaca base.  Both were beautiful, solid, and rank high on our list of cocktails for the year.

Overall

Full shakers for being hidden, for a challenge, for service, theme, and cocktails.  This was our first 5-Shaker of the weekend.  Well deserved.  Brian was awesome, engaging, and fun.  We loved him and wish he could leave the entrance and hangout with us.  Our bartenders were friendly, checked in often, and made some dang good drinks. The food looked amazing, but we did not eat.  We were happy and would definitely go back. Brian also recommended we pop down to their sister bar, Convoy Music Bar.  Just a short walk up the road and we were off with a one and done.

ssn – you know I love an Asian bar. Realm was beautiful, mysterious, and unique. And Realm lands at number 93 on The 50 Best Bars in North America for 2026!

Convoy Music Bar

This was an unplanned stop (although it was on Peggy’s original list), so we were unprepared.  Which is sometimes an amazing thing. When you don’t know what to expect you are less likely to be disappointed and more likely to find happy little surprises.

The Entrance

We were warned, Convoy Music Bar is down an unmarked alley. Now, my first response was “my mom says I can’t go down dark alleys”, but my sister is a rebel, and she made me.  You are absolutely in an alley behind a strip mall.  Complete with dumpsters, old containers, and empty kegs.  The door is unmarked except for the signature red light above the door.  There is a doorman to check IDs, which is really your only sign.

The Experience

Convoy Music Bar is small and dimly lit.  A long bar on one side, and several tall tables to the left.  We did not have a reservation, and the bar was full.  But the servers were nice, let us look around; they shared the menu and some thoughts with us. It was a quick stop, but enough for us to recommend it if you are bar hopping in Convoy.

Overall

Hidden: yes. Service: yes. Task: no. Theme, not really, but will get 0.5 shaker for the vinyl listening bar theme but kind of generic aside from that.  I’m giving them a shaker for cocktails because they are inventive, but also the menu gives you the ingredients but also shares the feeling of the cocktail and I loved “Monte Carlo on holiday in the Far East” and “Martini? Kinda, pero mas Rico”.  So, you gotta love that.

Mothership

I’m making an executive decision and including Mothership in our review list, although it’s not technically a speakeasy (and I won’t provide a shaker review). But it made Esquire Magazine’s list of Best Bars in American 2025.  Esquire made a very explicit—and intentional—shift in how it chose the Best Bars in America 2025. The list was not based on technical mixology, novelty, or spectacle. Instead, it was built around emotional use, community value, and personal loyalty.  With criteria like that, I was IN for this San Diego experience.

The Entrance

The door is almost unmarked.  There is no big sign, and nothing pointing it out, but there is a reference to it by the door.  The door is marked Authorized Personnel Only, but under that is the warning about Mothership.  Go in that door.

The Experience

Give your eyes a minute to adjust, because the long hallway is a cave, with rock walls and blue lights.  But keep walking and you will hit the bar area and host stand. The ceiling lit up like the night sky, the walls foam sprayed to look like a cave, complete with stalagmites, and high back chairs that look like rocket ship control chairs.  It is IMMERSIVE.  And it’s pretty amazing.  Think of Tiki bar on a foreign planet. Even the typical tiki drinks have a reimagined galactic theme. 

Overall

If you are looking for a playful bar experience and love tiki bars, go visit Mothership!  And don‘t skip the bathroom where you might get freaked out mid-urine stream when an astronaut voice starts reporting updates to NASA.

Part Time Lover

This was not one I was excited about, but it turned out great.  I love music, but I’m not really into the music scene – I’m much more carpool karaoke than Jeopardy level music expert.  Part Time Lover is a listening, vinyl bar, much like Dorian’s in Chicago.  They’re fine, but not usually my jam.  Part Time Lover was great, however, a great 70’s theme with that 70’s wood detail our mom used to have, fantastic lighting, and fun people.

The Entrance

There is no task to get in, but it is hidden inside a deteriorated Records and Liquor store sign with a retro design like throwing back to a 1950’s soda shop.

The Experience

I thought this had a great feeling.  Laid back, fun, like a 1970’s summer hangout (to distinguish it as separate from a disco). It is order at the bar, which sucks for service shaker, but the bartenders were great, and social, and we had a great experience.  There is a vinyl room in the back, and we did see several people just come in to browse for music.  The seats are deep bench seats and couches with additional chairs set around.  Like you are at your parents house…before you were born and they were actually fun people (but don’t go looking for a fishbowl for your keys).

Overall

We had a great, relaxed time.  We would definitely hangout here and not just go for the speakeasy experience. The menu is not extensive, but it is solid.  We are giving them one shaker for the cocktails, 0.5 for service, zero for Task, one for hidden, and one for theme.

ssn – why was this so good? Part Time Lover just has that certain je ne sais quoi. So comfortable and inviting. It is part of the CH Projects group that owns Raised by Wolves, Young Blood, and False Idol (all from our list) – so you know it is solid and well-executed!

Room 56

I originally thought this one should be a back-up plan, not a main event, based solely on a fairly boring name. Peggy got us reservations and insisted this was on our day two list. She was right (it happens more often than I’d like to admit).

The Entrance

One of our best entrance experiences in a list of some pretty great entrances.  With a reservation, you will receive instructions for entry.  I will spoil that for you now.  Room 56 is inside the Moxy in downtown San Diego. We love a Moxy!  The main floor of the Moxy is centered around a bar, which also acts as the hotel check-in desk.

Go up the lobby stairs to the open loft where there is a little library full of books.  They will send you instructions earlier in the day, when that task is done, they will come get you. That’s all I will tell you, the rest can be a find out on your own, leave you a little mystery.

The Experience

Inside you take a spiral staircase down to the bar.  It’s not huge, maybe 40-person seating and a small bar.  Amy was adorable, friendly, and fun.  Henry came back to check in and walk us through the drink list and present our bubbly welcome drink.  WIN with a welcome drink!  He assured me the Keep Calm and Curry On would not be too spicy and the mezcal would not overtake the balance – he was right, it was a red curry and Mezcal was balanced well with the full flavor, plus all the basil!  Peggy jumped off the savory train and back to her passionfruit and grapefruit wheelhouse with the Hop, Skip, & a Jump. 

Overall

Amy and Henry were a fantastic team and as we were leaving presented me with a gift: Holy Basil for our trip to Oculto, which I insist on calling my Pocket Basil in a throwback to my Pocket Rib ecstasy in Kansas City. A boring name, but a fantastic experience, this was one of my favorites of San Diego.  They are getting a full shaker for service, a full shaker for hidden and task, a shaker for cocktails, and a shaker for theme.  A second full 5-Shaker experience for Room 56.

ssn – I ditched her Pocket Basil at Oculto 477…not sure she’s gotten over it. It isn’t like it was ribs….

Oculto 477

This Old Town San Diego speakeasy came highly recommended.  Next to a cemetery, it is known to stick with the feel of it’s surroundings, Old Town Mexico feel, with a little after-life tribute.

The Entrance

Inside Tahona Bar, let them know you have a reservation.  With a reservation, you are led to the back bar to read over the rules.  When they are ready for you, you will be led to an area behind a curtain with a large wooden door with a confessional window.  When the window slides open, confirm you have read the rules and then be prepared: you have to confess your sins in order to gain entry (know your seven deadly sins and select one that you are willing to cop to). 

The Experience

A small room with an adobe feel, like Poncho and Lefty would be found drunk in a corner (don’t shame me for that reference).  Old wood, slight references to Dia de los Muertas, an intimate feeling that seems like it should be smokey, but it’s not.  The cocktails were good, a lot of mezcal and whiskey, and a few in Mexican themed tiki glasses.  The service was disappointing, not friendly; not rude, but certainly not interesting, amusing, nor engaging. The confessing of sins should have been a fun/funny part of the experience but it was neither. He did not seem amused by us, which we just cannot understand.

Overall

They get the full shaker for hidden and for task, it’s a fun concept.  The cocktails were good enough to earn them a full shaker, and the theme was on point.  We are not giving any points for service, and that makes us sad, but the lack of engagement really put a bad taste in our mouth about the experience we were hoping for.

Bar Kamon

Again, a second choice for a speakeasy that I was unimpressed by the name.  However, I had learned my lesson about assumptions after Room 56, and I just went with Bar Kamon.

The Entrance

This speakeasy is hidden inside a bakery, a fantastic looking bakery in the East Village neighborhood of San Diego.  It is hidden behind a false wall.  If you really cannot figure it out, the bakery staff can help you.  There is a button to hit to get in.  It’s not a huge challenge, just look for a button that is out of place and hit it, but it is still a challenge.  And apparently, not everyone figures it out and does need assistance. 

The Experience

Inside the door is a host stand to check in, and the host will lead you into the room. Themed dedicated to a 1920’s prohibition era Japanese feel.  Understated, but elegant. We sat at the bar and had an incredible experience with Amadeus.  He was wearing a pin for Amor y Amargo in NYC which was our ice breaker, as it is his favorite NYC bar and we just happened to have met the owner at our Kansas City event.  Amadeus was amazing and shared his knowledge of spirits with us. We also talked about the importance of the emotions conveyed through a cocktail, it was a vibe, we had fun.

ssn – Amadeus had such a zest for the cocktail experience and the ingredients. Very reminiscent of our experience at the Vault in Las Vegas. It is s true gift.

Our drinks were incredible and for a hot minute Trash Panda was going to go on my Best Sips 2026 list.  Amadeus also let us sample the ube black strap foam served on a separate cocktail, and I really just wanted a full bowl of it.  We ordered the Tuna Tartare Cannoli, and loved every bite of it, sad to say we had no more time to explore the food menu, because it all looked amazing.

Overall

This was such a great experience.  They understand service, they understand cocktail and flavor combinations.  There is a full shaker for hidden, a full shaker for task, a full shaker for service, a full shaker for cocktails, and a full shaker for theme.  Yes, our excitement translates into a full 5 Shakers for Bar Kamon.

Young Blood

As I mentioned, this is owned by the CH Projects group that owns Raised by Wolves, our expectations were high.  They share owners and a building with Noble Experiment, but we could not secure reservations for that.  We were happy to get into Young Blood, although a little wary of the three-course drink experience we were walking into.

The Entrance

Inside Neighborhood restaurant in the downtown area, just let them know you are there for Young Blood, or just head on down the hallway.  There is a wall of kegs, push on them, they will swing open to a more elegant hostess stand.  When your table is ready, the cooler will open and you head into Young Blood. 

The Experience

Wow, wow, wow.  The room is beautiful.  A little weird with the large lighted wall statues of two women over the bar, but the carpet makes up for it.  Walls of alcohol, great lighting, great intimate feeling.  Cushy velvet bar stools, and a small bar with seating for 8, low side tables for about 25. 

This is a cocktail experience consisting of three rounds of drinks.  The first drink is selected off a limited menu that is named by the feeling and flavors of the drink: lush+tropical fruit+citric (Me), Herbaceious+bright+oceanic (Peggy), there are only six to choose from each with three descriptive word titles.  The second is a dealer’s choice, bar speak for the bartender crafts your cocktail based on your choice of spirit and your own preferences and feedback from your first course.  Drink number three is a dessert cocktail (I opted for the Lemon Merengue Pie, Peggy had the Butterscotch Budino) – they were rich, decadent, and a great finish. 

Alexandra was a mind-blowing genius of a mixologist.  Her palette is incredible, her knowledge was impressive, and the personally curated drinks were spot on.  This woman knows her craft; she needs an award and a raise.  Her expertise makes the experience. 

Overall

The Lush+Tropical Fruit+Citric is now top of my list for Best Sip of 2026 (so far).  It was a velvety citrus with macadamia nut, verjus, tangerine, and a cachaca peach base. It included a coconut fat washed red wine float on top that was a peak experience.

This is an obvious 5-Shaker.  It checks every box, from the keg entrance and cooler walk through, to Alexandra and then Francesca, the ambiance, the service, the cocktails.  Young Blood was perfection in a speakeasy.

ssn – this was definitely the high point of the trip. Alexandra was a genius, the cocktails were incredible and the other guests at the bar were chit-chatty and interactive. It was such a great vibe. Need to go back and try Noble Experiment!

Prohibition

Our last stop of the trip, a squeeze in on a Sunday night.  But with a name like Prohibition, it’s going to live up to it’s name or it’s going to be a big disappointment (I’m looking at you Prohibition Siem Reap).

The Entrance

On a busy downtown street, squished next to a loud Mexican restaurant patio and a Cubano shop, your only clue is a plain black door with an old sticker noting that the establishment has been closed under Amendment 19.  Flip the light switch to gain entrance. 

The Experience

Upon entry through the door there is a staircase down to the basement.  Dark, black, red lights, it sets the mood.  A long room with empty whiskey barrels, a small space where a live band plays (small as in there was a jazz trio and I’m not sure it would fit a quartet, but hey, live music).  Order at the bar only.  The menu is on an old LP (vinyl for you young-uns).  A little weird, but in an upscale way you would want in a speakeasy instead of a basement garage band bar, my server was busy, but friendly, and we connected over a cocktail with red wine shaken in rather than a float on top.

Overall

It was a strong finish to our San Diego experience, if it hadn’t been for the three strong drinks at YoungBlood and the late-night stop in, we would have been in for all of it.  A nice change from the upscale speakeasy experiences, it is more understated and chill, and if you are a jeans and t-shirt person, this is your jam.  They do lose half a shaker for the bar only ordering, but they do get hidden, half a shaker for task, full for cocktail, and full for theme.  They land a solid 4 and are definitely worth your time.

Other San Diego Mentions

False Idol (previous visit)

We were early adapters to the Speakeasy lifestyle and stumbled onto False Idol by accident, not even knowing it was a speakeasy, just that it was a Tiki bar within walking distance to our hotel a few years ago.  And fell in love!

The Entrance

False Idol will pop up on a Google map, but I can’t hold that against them for the hidden feature, as that is beyond their control.  Located inside Craft & Commerce, I walked up to the C&C hostess stand when I could not find where Google Maps was taking me.  The hostess leaned in and lowered her voice into a whisper and said, “are you saying that you are looking for a secret bar hidden inside this restaurant” and I was HOOKED.   She led us down a short hallway to a string bead covered doorway.

The Experience

Oh, how do you not love a good Tiki bar?  False Idol is not huge, but it is immersive in its red lights, bamboo, fishing floats lantern adorned ceiling and tiki mask walls. Fire drinks are readily available, shareable punch bowls, and glowing cocktails; False Idol stays on theme in the best of ways.  The servers were fun and happy to set fire to the scorpion bowl and loved how excited we got.  I will issue a brief warning; the flames are created by the cinnamon shaker, so the more flames you cheer on the more cinnamon-y your drink gets, but also, watch where you put your hands, because our table ended up covered in the brown powder.

Overall

False Idol is a 4.5 of 5 and will remain nostalgic in the fact this was one of my first speakeasy experiences and had me hooked from the get-go.  Definitely Tiki but not trashy or cheap, it is really well done, great tiki cocktails, great service (you gotta love when the server cheers along with you and answers your stupid-ish questions), it is hidden, I suppose it only gets a half shaker with no task, but a hostess you have to check in with.  I will keep False Idol in my heart and will happily recommend it to everyone visiting San Diego.

Ironside Fish & Oysters

I know, it’s a speakeasy guide, but I am throwing out a big shout out to Ironside Fish and Oyster bar in Little Italy (coincidentally, I just learned as I was typing this that they are ALSO part of the CH hospitality group).  The drinks were amazing, and on theme for their sea faring ambiance. The food has a raw bar half and an open flame-kissed section; we loved everything we had. But I am still sad we didn’t have room for the clam chowder fries.

The reason this is getting included is because our server, Lucy, will be fondly remembered in our 2026 Wrap Up as one of my favorite people of the year. And I don’t want to hear later that no one heard of her before.  I feel like she could definitely and should definitely be considered a soul sister.  She was super funny and fun, perky in a “may have had too much caffeine or just maybe every day is like this in my world” kind of vibe. Everything she recommended for food and drinks was superb, and we need more people like Lucy in this world.

We celebrated our friend, Sean’s birthday, and Lucy made the atmosphere definitely celebratory – even before the incredible caramel drizzled, banana pudding trifle she heaped into a bowl for us.  I miss her already and cannot wait to go back to Ironside and sit in her section. Dare I say she is right up there with Julien at Uchi Denver as best servers we’ve encountered!

San Diego Wrap-up

San Diego has a great drinking scene, and an up-and-coming destination for speakeasies.  They have had speakeasies for many years, but they are growing the reputation and really are leading the American embrace of the vibes of the East Asian Speakeasy scenes.  We loved our experiences and the people we met along the way.  A little something for everyone and all worthy of your time and energy.

You stay classy, San Diego!

Other Speakeasy Guides

• Our Ultimate List & Ratings of US Speakeasies
• Las Vegas
• Boston
• Austin
• Chicago
• Denver
• Colorado (outside of Denver)
• Seattle
• Kansas City
• Paris
• London

tl;dr: If you want to jump to our Complete List of US Speakeasies, Click here

Your favorite sisters are in their element when surrounded by fantastic opportunities for creating our own Las Vegas speakeasy tour.

Vegas is an obvious choice when posed with the question, “Where should we go for great drinking options?”. We are dutifully bringing you our Las Vegas Speakeasy recommendations in this post; we will cover Tiki Bars and other drinking spots in a separate post.

Las Vegas Speakeasy Boom

Secret bars have become more and more common in Vegas, and you would be hard pressed to hit them all in one long Vegas party weekend.  So, we have done the leg work and hit the big ones and are ready to give you the inside scoop.

A Speakeasy used to be a quiet little underground place that you could seek out and feel like you were privy to some secret underground.  Sadly, this is no longer the case. With social media and Google searches you can find them in most big cities. 

We recommend reservations for all of these places, even on weeknights, just to guarantee yourselves entry.

Las Vegas Speakeasies – Off-strip

Sister Side Note (ssn) – we choreographed this list carefully to hit these spots during the day and/or as soon as they opened. We are not up for Vegas night-life, haha. Many open at 4:00-ish and we are all about it. You can’t be day drinking if you don’t start in the daytime!.

Mas Por Favor – Chinatown

The Entrance

This could have been mentioned in our Off the Strip blog post, because it is technically located in Chinatown.  Yes, we know, it’s weird that there is a Mexican Restaurant in Chinatown. But nevertheless, here we are!

From the front entrance, Mas Por Favor is a counter taco shop with a pretty impressive menu. The food is good, plan to eat.  At the counter ask the cashier about “tonight’s delight” and they will point you to the unassuming man in the corner. 

He will escort you through a large door and down a dark hallway, past a barrel of cocaine (ok, it was probably a prop, but we didn’t ask), around a corner beyond the sombrero wearing skeleton (see, he asked about that barrel and white bricks) and through a second metal door. 

The Experience

Hispanic symbolism fantastically decorates the room in a completely stylish way.  There’s a wall of prayer candles, a large mural of Frieda Kahlo lookalike, sponge textured walls, you will definitely feel like hanging out for a while.

There are margaritas, naturally, and some crazy themed cocktails. We had the Border Patrol Shot served in a hollowed-out shotgun shell. One our neighbors at the next table had:  Disco Shit, a shot served with a cardboard square of “party favors” (in reality its powdered sugar lined out like cocaine lines), it was hysterical to watch.

Get the tacos, they’re crazy good and have some unique combinations. They also have happy hour specials if you opt for a late afternoon instead of late-night cocktail experience. 

The Laundry Room – Downtown

The Entrance

Down off of Fremont Street is The Laundry Room. Constructed from what used to be a legit Prohibition-era Las Vegas speakeasy that doubled as laundry facilities for the El Cortez Hotel, the Laundry Room was one of the first in this new revival.  You will find it inside Commonwealth Bar on the east end of Fremont. So down further than the Fremont Street Experience, but still within walking distance and by the Neon signs and Container Garden. 

The Experience

The Laundry Room is extremely private, only seating 22 people at a time, a maximum of 4 per party.  Reservations open up two weeks in advanced of your day, and they do book up fast.  Approach the host at Commonwealth and let her know of your reservation, She will escort you down a hallway to a secret panel hiding the entrance.

They feature Prohibition era décor and a fantastic menu of vintage cocktails. Or you can give the bartender a little bit of your likes and dislikes and challenge them to blend a special concoction just for you. Eclectic furniture and seating, you may just find yourself seated at a piano bench or cozied up under an antique chandelier.

You may notice that we are not sharing any pictures of The Laundry Room with you.  That is because it isn’t allowed.  The Laundry Room has strict rules you must abide by, among them is no phones in use, no loud or excitable conversations, no fighting, no PDAs, and no hitting on other patrons.

ssn – while no photos are allowed, the amazing tiktoker, VegasStarfish, has the inside look.

@vegasstarfish

The ultimate hidden speakeasy, Laundry Room Downtown Las Vegas #vegas #lasvegas #vegasstarfish #speakeasy #downtownlasvegas #fremontstreetexperience

♬ Harry Potter – The Intermezzo Orchestra

The Underground – Downtown

The Entrance

Also in downtown Las Vegas, in the basement of the Mob Museum is The Underground Bar and Distillery.

You can enter through the museum after your tour, or there is a backdoor with the old-style sliding peephole.  They offer a distillery tour as one of the museum entry packages. The tour explains the history and process of bathtub gin and moonshine, it also comes with tastings.

The Experience

The Underground serves upscale bar appetizers, and prohibition-themed cocktails.  I opted for the Bathtub Fizz, because it was served in a cute little bathtub.  But they offer their own take on Bee’s Knees and the Al Capone reported favorite Southside.  Peggy opted for the Giggle Water, because how could you not have something called Giggle Water.

Captain’s Quarters inside White Whale – Downtown

The Entrance

This is formerly Mike Morey’s Sip N Tip and is located down a side alley off Fremont Street. Note that we have not been since Mike Morey’s closed but it appears that there are similarities to the entrance but there is no longer a sign above the door alerting you to its presence but there are whales stenciled onto the bricks. Then just a black door in the alley and you still ring a doorbell and be allowed in.

The Experience

Once inside the door you can go left into the White Whale or right behind the curtain to Captain’s Quarters.  It has transitioned to a nautical theme and we have heard there is no cocktail menu but the bartenders make you curated cocktails based on your likes and personality.

ssn – I absolutely loved the original and can’t wait to check out the new place! Old pics for now…

Las Vegas Speakeasies – Strip Area

Here Kitty Kitty Vice Den – Resorts World

The Entrance

Resort World is one of the newer resorts on the strip, and it’s beautiful, Hilton did a fabulous job on this resort!

Several fantastic restaurants, but we were drawn in by the so-called food court named Famous Food Street Eats.  Authentic international dishes from multiple cultures similar to Hawker stand.

But we aren’t here to talk food in this blog post. You will need to go find Famous Food Street and look for Ms. Meow’s Mamak Stall.  At the checkout counter, you will need to go to them and say “here, kitty kitty”. We find it best if you do in a bit of a whisper for effect, haha. They will guide you back through the bookcase, which is a secret door into the Here Kitty Kitty Vice Den. 

The Experience

Billed as a “hidden den of sin”, they have a well-stocked bar of world-famous Scotch, Tequila and Asian Whiskeys.  They will make you a bartender’s choice cocktail, or you can choose from a list of specialty cocktails. The cocktails are inventive and exciting, with ingredients like Cardamom bitters, pink peppercorn, or Strawberry bursting Boba. We absolutely loved the feel and vibe of this bar, and the big neon tiger on the wall.

The room is dark, the décor is Asian inspired, and it was one of Peggy’s two favorite stops (probably #3 on my list).

ssn – I loved Here Kitty Kitty – they had me at hidden den of sin. But they seriously committed to the back alley Asian theme. The bartenders were fab and the drinks…chef’s kiss.

The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails – Cosmopolitan

The Entrance

At the Cosmopolitan, The Barbershop is set up like a speakeasy, however it is anything but a secret spot.  This maybe the best known Las Vegas speakeasy around. In fact, as you enter the Cosmopolitan from the Bellagio side, there is a big barbershop sign that lists it as having cocktails. And there is a roped area for the eventual line to get in, it is not exactly unassuming.

The Barbershop front does actually provide haircuts and shaves.  However, if you have a reservation, or it’s still early in the evening, the door bouncer will escort you to the back janitor’s closet. Here a little peephole door will slide open and deem whether you are acceptable for entry. Our hostess rang the bell for us and the inside bouncer looked us up and down. He reminded the hostess that last time I was there I was removed for dancing on the tables. I’m not saying he was wrong, but it was a cute little kitschy interaction enhancing the experience. I assured him that this time I would share the tips and he granted us entry.

The Experience

Inside is a fantastic whiskey focused menu, a huge wall with a bar that was clearly imported from someplace fantastic due to the mirror aging. The seating area was appointed with dark cushy leather chairs and a very masculine yet classy feel, they nailed the ambiance.

I think one of my favorite nods to the old style speakeasy was the bouncer guarding the inner door and the red light above the door that lit up when a new patron arrived requesting entry.

They host celebrities on occasion, and if you are there during the week do NOT miss Karaoke.  There is a limited song list, because you perform with a live band instead of canned, recorded music.  Do not pass up this opportunity. I’m so sorry Vegas missed my rendition of “Oops, I did it Again” because I quite frankly chickened out.  Don’t be like me.

ssn – On speakeasy-style ambiance alone, this is near the top for me. It is done so well. At first it was a little snobby, but very shortly, we met the people around us, the bartenders got chatty and we had a great time. The bar features open seating, but all tables and seating sections were reservation (and bottle service or maybe a spend minimum) required.

Ghost Donkey – Cosmopolitan

The Entrance

Upstairs at the Cosmopolitan is a little more hidden, little smaller, little more festive speakeasy. 

On the second floor, in the food court, back past the nacho bar, look for an exit door with a donkey on it. 

The Experience

Push that door open and it’s a small bar, with lots of Christmas lights and loud raucous feel, or maybe it was just the convention that was in town.  But it was amazing that from the food court side you could hear nothing, you push that door and it’s all pink, funky, sparkly tequila party.

It was such a good time (we both listed this in our top two favorites)! Great tequila drinks, and an atmosphere that promotes a party atmosphere without being “clubby”.

Cabinet of Curiosities and The Lock – Horseshoe

One of Las Vegas’ newer speakeasies, and my personal favorite, The Lock.  In Horseshoe Las Vegas, follow the signs to the Cabinet of Curiosities downstairs from the casino floor.  Cabinet of Curiosities is actually gorgeous and you will be glad you found it.  Eclectic, weird curiosities decorate this bar. I loved the blue leather couch, so elegant and indulgent feeling.

At the end of the room is a big door that looks almost like a huge bank vault door. Pickup the phone and the The Locksmith will answer, if you have a reservation, or they have room, The Locksmith will come out to get you.

The Entrance

The Locksmith guides you back to a room filled with safes.  Each safe contains a numeric clue inside to the locked door.  You must arrange the clues to get the combination to the door lock.  Once the code is solved, or you beg the Locksmith for help, you crawl through the big safe door (if you are adventurous). You walk through the big inner vault door if you are a little boring (there are different codes for the two different doors), and boom, you are in. 

The Experience

You can choose from the standard specialty cocktails list that is prohibition era inspired, or you can choose adventure and fill out the personality profile and the mixologist will concoct a drink based on answers to simple questions about your mood, your flavor preference and zodiac sign.

Our mixologist nailed the cocktails. 

Then we discovered the shifty eyes on one of the portraits (with the help of another patron).  Behind that portrait lies a VIP lounge, yes, there is actually has a second hidden room inside their own hidden room.

They made the entrance one of the most fun of our adventure, and it is definitely worth it when you are in the quiet, conversational drinking mood (rather than the festive mood of a few of the other speakeasies). 

Ok, so we solved the clues, we open the safe and opt for the adventure of entering that way. You have to actually crawl through the safe to the other side. Having had a couple of cocktails, I decide to go all Chris Farley aka Tommy Boy. As I crawl into the safe I start singing “Fat Girl in a Little Safe”, just to myself and Peggy. I think I’m funny, until I hear the roar of laughter from the other side. I didn’t realize the safe opened up directly into the bar, which at the time was dead quiet and the entire room could hear me.

ssn – if you do NOTHING else with this post, watch the YouTube video of Patti entering the safe. Yes, I snorted…and I am still laughing about it.

The Vault – Bellagio

The Entrance

We expect a hidden entrance in a speakeasy and this one you will have to look for.  Online all we could find out was that it’s a brown door on the casino floor of The Bellagio. And we were off to search with just the one descriptor on the not-so-small casino floor.  We stumbled upon it relatively quickly, but it is hidden and unmarked except for a sign next to a brown door (with a gold handle) with The Vault’s logo on it. The entrance was a win for us.

ssn – Even as small children Patti had an innate sense for where the bathroom was in every public place we were in. Our parents used to joke about it. It seems that skill has served her well and has translated to hidden entrances. She seems to instinctively sniff them out with not much trouble at all. Well, except for that one time in Penang.

The Experience

We knew going in that The Vault was going to be too fancy for us, but we are here for you, to give you the full experience review.  We enter through the brown door, are greeted by a Vegas-level VIP hostess who escorts us to our bar seats (bar seats, FTW). The room itself is dark and moody, smells slightly of smokey goodness and leather.  It is black and gold, has lots of mirrors and fantastic lighting.  It is definitely upscale and classy AF.

We agreed ahead of time that this is going to be a one and done for us, because it’s also known for being “expensive but worth it”, we are doubting the worth it part.  We were wrong, it was totally worth it.  And it had a welcome drink, you know we love a welcome drink!

ssn – Although The Vault was elegant and opulent, it was not stuffy. In contrast to The Office in Chicago – also very exclusive and expensive – we loved the Vault and did not feel like it “was not for us”. I speak for both of us when I say we would happily return.

Special Shoutout – The Service

David, our bartender, was incredible. Friendly and polite, with a mind-blowing level of knowledge and information about not just the spirits, but also the mixing and flavor balances.

Questions were answered similar to this: “as this is very gin forward, it is balanced with the yuzu and melon, to bring down the acidity and elevate the natural sweetness that can be found in earthy tones of the matcha. The blending of these flavors will hit the palette with a smooth, almost silky note and then blend into a river of sweet and sour as it crosses the taste buds, finishing with a slightly bitter, but mellow final hit”.

His descriptions were over the top, with an incredible synonym filled explanation so that you knew exactly what to expect.

Back to the Cocktails

But let’s talk about the cocktails.  Expensive, for sure.  But, as we were warned, completely worth it.  I had The Seductress, their amped up version of an espresso martini – it is served finished with a sesame cream that had the consistency of marshmallow fluff and a burned sugar banana that added to the smell sense as you drank it.  They make the cream by handshaking cream and sesame simply syrup – hand-shaken in a frozen martini shaker.

Peggy had the English Spy, a clarified milk punch that she loved but, whatever, I had marshmallow-y goodness.  Start with a welcome drink, add in cocktails, they also serve drinking snacks (tajin pistachios, parmesan crisps, and deep fried olives stuffed with goat cheese and chorizo) and then you finish with a good-bye bite, which ours was an espresso gelée with orange brown sugar.

ssn – don’t downplay my cocktail! I received a full ten minute dissertation comparing and contrasting two of my choices – I had to consider the difficulty level required of the bartender, the flavor profiles, the mouth feel and the viscosity! David is brilliant. As was my choice.

The Ski Lodge – Cosmopolitan

The Entrance

Next to Superfrico at the Cosmopolitan there is an unassuming door.  Plain except for a little skier on it.  No sign, no fanfare, just a simple door.  We love this, that is how a speakeasy should be, completely unadvertised.

The Experience

This was a winner, cracking into the list of our favorite speakeasies.  True dedication to the theme, it feels dark and lodge-ish, wooden, skis in the corner, a stone fireplace, absolutely just like any ski lodge bar you’ve been in.  Big picture window over the bar has a snowy scene showing.  The drinks were a good blend of alcohols, without being too weird. The staff was friendly and sported après ski style outfits.  And they offer a shotski!

This place hit all the notes and checked all the boxes.  I had the Golden Gai Goddess, with a fruity forward but a slightly bitter aftertaste, not in a bad way, in a slightly pithy way, I think it balanced out the fruity yuzu nicely and came with a slice of dragon fruit, which I will never turn down.

ssn – short and sweet, not much to add here. The Ski Lodge was perfect – and I feel like as a Coloradan I can say that. The commitment to theme was unmatched. This is comfortably in my Top 5.

Easy’s Cocktail Lounge – Aria

The Entrance

When you hear about it, it sounds perfect: a speakeasy attached to a donut shop.  Except when you get there it is decidedly just a nightclub attached to a donut shop.  A velvet entry rope, a big man named Reggie out front guarding the entrance looking like he’s going to decide if you are good enough to go in. The closest it comes to a speakeasy is an entrance down a short, short hallway with a door Reggie has to open with the code. Speakeasy ends there.

The Experience

Great bar, more like a small jazz club inside.  It’s got a great feel to it. A standing-room only bar for those without reservations, small tables, and a cool live band performing a little classic R&B with a modern twist. The band was the highlight for us.  The drinks range from high-end specialty drinks (things like smokey drinks in cigar boxes), down to their list of classic cocktails (I had a daquiri). Overall, a great place to hangout for an intimate night listening to great music in a small venue, but not exactly a speakeasy.

ssn – my drink (pictured below) was exceptionally good!! Gin, yellow Chartruse, honey, lemon, cucumber, mint! A little spendy but fantastic. Bonus points for Easy’s….they hand you a donut when you leave!

Pier 17 Yacht Club – Caesar’s Palace

The Entrance

The Pier 17 Yacht Club is the speakeasy located inside the Green Fairy Garden outside the Absinthe tent in front of Caesar’s Palace (phew, that’s a lot). The downside is that the entrance is not hidden or mysterious, there is a hostess check in at the front but it is at a bit of an “off” location inside the Green Fairy Garden (which is a cute outside bar if you just need a great outdoor patio. 

The Experience

You are escorted up a very Gilligan’s Island looking ramp with bamboo walls, into the inner bar room.  The inner bar room is pretty and upscale yacht club looking environment, but then there are doors to their outside patio which is much livelier and fun looking with Christmas lights and patio chairs.  This is primarily a pre-hangout area for those attending Absinthe.  It had a great feel but was dead while we were there as the show had just started.

A short, themed cocktail list, it was good, but nothing over the top or weird, which we appreciated. 

All in all, a cute, solid bar, not so much a speakeasy, but I’m glad we went. Perfect for your pre-show cocktails (and they offer large, premixed flasks of cocktails, which was cute) and drinks with friends. Anyplace else besides Vegas and it would have been more impressive and more highly frequently for it’s outside patio vibes.

ssn – This was super cute but definitely a pre-show only occasion. If you get the chance, see Absinthe – it is hilarious, raunchy, visually fun and also full of amazing talent!

The Count Room – The Flamingo

Unfortunately Google did not have updated hours for The Count Room so we could not make it to this one. It is located behind an office door just outside of Bugsy & Meyer’s Steakhouse, this looks really cute. Next time!

On the Record – Park MGM

At the Park MGM. Definitely not a speakeasy, no matter what your Google search tells you.  Big neon lighted sign, a velvet rope maze, and signs all over telling you this way to “On the Record Speakeasy and Club”.  We passed.

Other Speakeasy Guides

• Our Ultimate List & Ratings of US Speakeasies
• Austin
• Boston
• San Diego
• Chicago
• Denver
• Colorado (outside of Denver)
• Seattle
• Kansas City
• Paris
• London

Others in our Day Drinking Series

• Dallas
• Seattle – part 2
• Savannah
• Boise
• Kansas City

This Colorado Speakeasy Guide uncovers the hidden bars scattered across the state. Perfect for travelers, road-trippers, and anyone who believes the best drinks are the ones you have to hunt for.

Admittedly, these are not all going to be speakeasies. But if they call themselves speakeasies, we owe them a look!

Loveland

Sage Speakeasy & Lounge

On our way to Fort Collins, a quick Google search found Sage Speakeasy & Lounge in Loveland, a perfect small town speakeasy.  Our one deterrent was the sign out front (along with a podium holding their menu).  But coming from a small town, we kind of understand the need to be a little more obvious.  No task to get in, obviously, so we do struggle with the speakeasy concept and the lowering of their shaker rating. 

Our experience was an interesting one.  We walked in, there was a large-ish group of people towards the back of the room.  Then this adorable host walks up to us, Josie.  He is friendly and his smile lit up the room; he explained to us that the power was out on the entire block.  They couldn’t serve food, and credit cards would have to be processed the old-fashioned way, by hand. But they were open. And the large, beautiful windows provided more than enough lighting. 

The cocktails were fantastic.  We loved Josie and Jeremy behind the bar.  Their smoked pineapple old-fashioned is one of their most popular signature cocktails.  It was amazing.  I had a Velvet Sunset, peachy, creamy with vanilla vodka.  We hated to one-and-done Sage, but Josie let us know about a low-key, little-known Loveland speakeasy right around the corner. We had to squeeze it in before getting back on the road.

Rosie’s

Ok, now we are talking speakeasy.  Rosie’s is hidden in the back of a barber shop.  There is a mention on the outside sign of cocktails, but no obvious GO HERE sign that we dislike.  The woman in the barbershop said Rosie’s didn’t open for another 20 minutes, but Troy (the owner) was back there if we wanted to go check it out.  Troy was happy to open a few minutes early for us, which we absolutely love and give bonus points for hospitality. 

Rosie’s was definitely eclectic and playful.  With Dexter’s Lab on the projector wall next to the bar, a Mystery Machine poster and some very interesting concoctions Troy had developed.

I opted for a Golden Mummy Golden Bird which had Rum, chocolate & lime cordial, hazelnut liqueur, and an absinthe rinse, which Troy assured me was just to highlight the flavors not to licorice it up.  It was interesting. I’m still trying to figure out if I liked it, but it definitely was exactly what the menu described, you could taste every note Troy said I would.  Peggy opted for a bourbon and hibiscus cocktail called David De La Hoz. But as our driver, she only had a couple of sips before erring on the side of caution and calling it good for a sample.

Fort Collins

The Social

In 2022 and 2023 The Social Fort Collins made the list of 50 Best Speakeasies in America. So this was a must visit for America’s Leading Speakeasy Authority.

There is a sign out front that simply has a clock which says Social on it. We are giving them hidden credit for not mention of being a bar or a speakeasy.  Plus, it is in a basement.  There was a check-in security at the top of the stairs and a hostess at the bottom. So while not exactly a task, it wasn’t just a walk-in situation.

The room is beautiful, yet quite expansive.  It just didn’t feel intimate, like we have come to know speakeasies to be.  The menu was fantastic, and the bartender was cool and informative, and gave us some great feedback on the menu.  We didn’t eat, but we loved that where you sometimes see an open kitchen. The Social had a glass walled charcuterie preparation station.  We love a good charcuterie board, especially seeing cheese and meat cut fresh and not pre-packaged.

There is a great selection of cocktails, and the menu is sectioned between your classic cocktails, your speakeasy-era cocktails, and then their more inventive “Secret Garden” selections.

ssn – and bonus points for a welcome drink!!

We loved our experience.  I’m not sure it would make our list as “best”, but it is definitely on the higher side of our shaker rating system.  And in fairness, we probably would have loved it more if we could have stayed for some serious drinking, and if there wasn’t a cranky, slightly douche-y husband on one side of us (someone else’s husband, not Patti’s).

Salida

Rocky Mountain Mercantile – The Blind Bighorn

This was a happy moment. 

A very happy accident.

There was a sign on the street that said “Whiskey Bar” and an arrow. But when we walked up the street to the sign it was just an upscale western wear boutique called Rocky Mountain Mercantile.  Geared towards the shopping tourist, but it still does say whiskey bar, so we went in.  Great shop with great clothes, and a few cute little home goods and jewelry.  If you keep walking back you will see a cigar case, a knife case, and then yep, a bar. 

The Blind Bighorn

Now, The Blind Bighorn Speakeasy is still in conceptual mode, but the bar was open.  Here we met Jeff behind the bar. He shared that while he was new to bartending, the concept was in development.  And he was learning.  Jeff makes guitars, yes, handmade guitars.  He used to own a rafting company in younger days and spent a great portion of his life outdoors, which is how he ended up in Salida.  He and his business partner, Kurt, who makes ukulele and banjos, decided to open this boutique in the front space of their backroom workshop.  Then they realized that they were drinking enough in this space that they should just put a bar in.

Now it’s a full whiskey bar, with the option to buy full bottles from their selection and lease a locker. Therefore, you can come in anytime and drink from your own supply while you hang out with them.  Fantastic concept for a local’s hangout.  And Kurt and Jeff were fun and informative to hang out with.  We love planners and dreamers and artists; they are those people.  They plan to do a little framing in, add a hidden entry, and turn it into a full speakeasy.  We cannot wait to go back and celebrate its grand reopening with them!  Please send us an invite, Jeff!!!

Velveteen

Another “not a speakeasy”, but we are including it because it lists itself as a speakeasy and the bartender told me “This is literally a speakeasy” (yes, that is a direct quote but she didn’t say it in a rude way).  But this is not a speakeasy: it is not hidden, it is not mysterious, there is nothing speakeasy about this.

It is, however, a great bar.  The cocktails were great.  We loved the feel of the bar and the quirky, literary theme, and it was definitely a comfortable bar to hang out in.  The back outside patio was amazing. They were preparing to set up for live music, there is also a food truck out back serving Mediterranean food.  And we did love that there are plenty of game cards set at each table to provide social interaction and conversation.

So, we do absolutely recommend popping into Velveteen if you are in Salida. Try them but do not expect to find a speakeasy inside the propped-wide-open door.

Colorado Springs

Shame and Regret

This is so close to being the ideal speakeasy.  It is dark, it is moody, it has a little Victorian era dark, witchy vibe to it – picture upscale goth.  Plus, one of the best names ever!

If only there wasn’t a big neon sign outside. 

Down a side alley, so we give them points because you would have to be looking for it.  No task to get in, which I hate to say is definitely becoming the norm for our visits and is sadly taking away from the fun of the speakeasy claim.

However, Shame and Regret has an amazing whisky and scotch selection.  They were definitely on theme with the drink titles like Shame Spiral and Lowered Expectations.  I loved the “You Up?”, their Shame and Regret espresso martini.  And Blackmail is perfect for old-fashioned aficionados.               

District Elleven

This is a bit of a conundrum in our shaker rankings.  We walked down a back alley.  There is a huge painted DISTRICT ELLEVEN painted on the side of a building wall.  So hardly a secret, but sticking to our set ratings, we gave it a half shaker, because it didn’t say what it was.

The inside is cool: black and sophisticated looking, with a little divey-punk feel.  Black aesthetics, dark, leather, whiskey bar.  Our bartender, Alex, was perky and cool.  Again, a conundrum, looking like she (or maybe they, we failed to ask) should be all hard and tough, bald, tattoos, but then sweet, with amazing dimples, a great sense of humor, and could make a stiff cocktail.  An amazing combination.  They were awesome, made great drink recommendations, said anything could be made that we could envision.  We loved Alex! 

The main bar room had insanely high ceilings with great artwork, mirrors, and eclectic remnants of the past decorating the walls from floor to ceiling.  Velvet couches, comfy chairs, and then a side room with booths.  So, yes, we loved it, and it was incredible.

But THEN, we exited through the other doorway, and bang!  It was a T-Byrds Tacos & Tequila.  If you come in through the street side, it is in the back of a Mexican restaurant, and yes, it is completely hidden.  So, bingo-bango-bongo, we have a hidden speakeasy, with full shaker, and full happiness from us!!!

The Archives Underground

Down a back alley, around to the back of the building, there are some stairs leading down to a basement “underground”.  We loved the lunch board that said, “This is the bar you’ve been looking for”. But so very disappointed in the sign next to that which read “The Archives Underground Speakeasy, this way”.

It had a fairly plain interior without a lot of art or eye-catching decor, but we did love the bar and the menu.  Not much for a theme, but three people at the bar were having hamburgers that looked flat out incredible.  The service was good; it had an industrial feel that made us think this would be where you would want to hang out after a tough shift at work.  There were a couple of tables that appeared to be date night clientele. I could see this would be a good date spot, not too loud, not too crowded.

I loved that the menu book also had a spot in the back where people were free to contribute jokes, and that the bartender stayed engaged with the people at the bar, even visitors to the area, not just the locals he knew.

There is an entrance through Colorado Craft that may be more hidden, but we did not check that out.

Allusion

Allusion has two locations in Colorado Springs.  This location is a speakeasy inside the Wobbly Olive downtown, the other inside the Wobbly Olive on Powers.  They change themes every 90 days.  We were skeptical about the ability to rotate themes and have it still be fully executed.  We were wrong to doubt them.

Originally, we showed up on a Wednesday night but were told that they were closed when they changed the theme over from Shrek to Jurassic Park.

Jurassic Park, I am so in for that!  I love me some Jurassic Park (minus #2), and Jurassic World (again, minus #2).  We made a special trip back a week later and were floored.

The theme was magnificent.  From the Skeleton on the toilet, to the Raptor eye peeking through the door hole, it was impressive.  All the drinks had movie themed names based on lines from the movies, like “Clever Girl” and “Future Ex Mrs. Malcom”.  I opted for the “We have a T-Rex” and Peggy had the “Life Finds a Way”.  The drinks are served in various dinosaur shaped containers, and one fantastic drink is served in a Barbasol can.  We closed out our experience with the “Really Big Pile of Shit” shot of vanilla vodka, chocolate liqueur and cream served in a poop emoji shot glass. 

Dylan, or Dr. Grant as he told us to call him, was a great bartender, and we absolutely loved our experience at Allusion.

ssn – be sure to make reservations, it was busy and we were lucky to score 2 seats at the end of the bar.

Beaver Creek/Minturn

The Minturn Whiskey Company (Beaver Creek)

Up in Beaver Creek (seasonally in Village Park), the Minturn Whisky Company is relatively new to the Colorado speakeasy scene, and we are thrilled to have made it over to visit them.  Beaver Creek is a super cute (although super bougie) ski village. The kind you can ski right out of your condo and onto a ski lift.  But this was summertime, and there is some cute little shops and restaurants around the area.  A trip to the mountains was just what we needed to get out of the desert heat.

Coming around the corner, you can see through the big picture windows into the bar inside, but the challenge is figuring out how to get in.  We loved the 1970’s themed real estate office front.  All 70’s orange and yellow, very retro décor, we were a little disappointed that there was a sign outside that clearly said “this is a speakeasy” – but it’s summertime and we are understanding of their need to draw in business.

And they are scoring a shaker for how to get in.  But we aren’t going to tell you how that is achieved, it is not difficult, and you should be able to figure it out pretty quickly; however, we are not one to spoil the challenge.

Serving only Minturn Whisky Company whisky, family-owned, small-batch, locally made, plus they have a great cocktail list.  The standard whisky cocktails like a Manhattan and a killer old-fashioned, they also have crafted some of their own, you can also opt for a whisky tasting.  We recommend the tasting because we really liked this whisky.

The Minturn Whiskey Company Wee Dram (Minturn)

Additionally, they have the smallest whisky tasting room in Colorado at their OG saloon in Minturn – the Wee Dram.  Absolutely go find them!  It’s a cute little ski shack, with a tiny fireplace, seating for just about 12 people, and the same cocktails as the speakeasy.  We fell in love with Kyler, and the locals hanging around outside for the live music prior to the rain starting. 

ssn – the Wee Dram won my choice for Best Bar of 2025 in our annual travel awards!

The Minturn Whisky Co. (Beaver Creek) gets high marks from us and would be sky-rocketed to the top of our shaker rating, minus the sign out front.  And the winter seasonal speakeasy is open now (January 2026) so go check it out!

Breckenridge

Canary Bar – Hotel Alpenrock

The Canary Speakeasy Bar was the last stop on our Colorado Speakeasy road trip adventure.  We were excited to be in Breckenridge.  But there were no reservations available for The Canary until 9:15 at night.  We were bummed but determined to push through.  Located inside the Hotel Alpenrock, we showed up early “just in case” and were told by the lobby check-in that they would come get us when our table was ready. 

I was, admittedly, cranky.  I was tired, I was hungry, my family was irritating me from a distance, and I was ready to bail.  That’s when Rob showed up with two champagne flutes with our welcome drinks.  Now, y’all know how much we love a welcome drink!  The drink changes with each guest, but ours was Amaro. 

Canary Bar Entrance

Rob was amazing.  On your way to the hidden entrance (and yes, it’s hidden, we could not find it on our own and circled the common areas a couple of times), Rob tells you about the hotel, the theme, the décor, the thought process.  And let me tell you, it’s pretty impressive.

The hotel is gorgeous but also has been so well thought out to reflect the seasons as you move from area to area.  We get to the Edwin, the upscale restaurant on property.  It is beautiful, summer themed, in a very Colorado ski town way.  And at the entrance they have 4 tree trunks, these are from the one and only tree they had to cut down to build the hotel – so they “live on” inside the property, very cool. 

Then we go back through the restaurant and are pretty sure Rob has tricked us into an evening of dishes in the kitchen when he stops and knocks on a bookshelf – and it’s a secret knock too!! He opens the door to the completely hidden, very elegant Canary Speakeasy.  Dark, rich, stylish, we sit at the bar, disappointed that the caged canary is fake (but I guess that’s to be expected).

Cire behind the bar brings us “guidebooks”, their replacement for a menu.  There are about 4 cocktails at the back by the wine and whisky list, but the front is all about the alcohol, the variety, the descriptor, suggestions for complimentary flavors.  And you tell Cire how you are feeling, what your wheelhouse is, and he creates you cocktail for you.  A hit for Peggy, a little bit of a miss for me, but still a great cocktail.  This is definitely a 5-Shaker experience, and I am so glad we stayed for it.

Durango

Bookcase & the Barber

While we did not make it this trip, a true 5-Shaker experience that you must visit is the Bookcase and the Barber in Durango.  Peggy has been and raves about it.  Tucked behind a bookcase in a working barbershop (hence the name, duh), this literary themed cocktail bar is near perfection.  Not only is the entrance hidden, but you need a password to get in – it can be found on their social media.

It is an intimate, local experience where the bartenders seem to know everyone and are super friendly and chatty.  Also, worth noting that it also makes Fifty Grande magazine’s list of the Coolest Speakeasies in America. 

July 2026 Update

Westcliffe

The Hidden Peak

In the small town of Westcliffe there happens to be a tiki bar.  It happens to be hidden.  It happens to be fantastic.

You are looking for a restaurant called B Social.  It’s right there as you pull into town (assuming you come from the north, which we did). B Social is a two-story wooden building marked as a feed store – small, rural town, naturally you are looking for a feed store. B Social is pretty fantastic, with a big patio, fresh air, TVs, and picnic tables.  It would be a great place just to hang out for happy hour, that is, if there wasn’t a set of stairs leading down.

There is a door off to the side, it was open when we got there and did have a sign on the door.  Given that this is a small town, we weren’t upset about the sign, small town means small business and the need to get customers in the door.  There is no task to get in, just head down the stairs and through the beaded curtain and find Katie and Rian behind the fantastic tiki paradise they have created in the basement. 

Hidden Peak Tiki has a fantastic happy hour if you can get there between 3 and 6 pm.  If not, go anyway, because the drinks were so well done!  We took my husband, who happens to love daiquiris on the rocks – which is a $5 happy hour special – and it was honestly one of the best daiquiris I have had.

Katie and Rian pretty much just opened their home bar to the public, saved up some SPAM cans, and started pouring amazing Tiki drinks. They were awesome, the group of ladies drinking way too many Blue Hawaiians ($7 happy hour price) were awesome, and the decor is fantastically tiki without being overdone or cheesy. Lots of wood, lots of nets, a couple of blown-up puffer fish and a bookshelf of SPAM cans (and they do make SPAM fries, if you like that kind of thing).

We HIGHLY recommend making a trip to this small town.  It is absolutely worth the drive, and we really wish we lived closer!

Cañon City

The War Room

As long as we are talking small town Colorado, Cañon City has this elegant turn of the century style hotel called Hotel St. Cloud.  Katie at The Hidden Peak recommended The War Room, and since we were going to drive though Cañon City on the way home, so we had to stop.

Truly hidden, so we never want to completely give it away and ruin your fun, let’s just leave it as you are looking for a bookshelf.  Find the bookshelf (it’s the only one we saw in the hotel), find the correct book, and figure out what it takes to swing the bookshelf open.

Immediate WOW from us.  The War Room was gorgeous, with mirrors, and lighting, and those fantastic glass shelves taking the bottles all the way to the ceiling.  Marble counter seating, and options of love seats, rounded booths, and full tables around the edges.  Cushy comfy chairs at the bar are always our choice, and they were available, so far, our night is ending well.  Art deco decor and a huge mural of a warm room really outlined the theme and the feel of the room.

The cocktails all had themed names, and we really loved their selection of curated cocktails.  Nothing too weird, yet interesting blends of flavors. Tactical Lounge was my wheelhouse with rum, grilled pineapple, mint, lime, honey, and limoncello, dare I say it would make my top 10 of the year.  Peggy went a little lighter with the Night Watch consisting of vodka, blackberry moonshine lemon, peach, and basil.  Mine was better, but hers was refreshing.

The bartender was nice and engaging with our conversations with those around us at the bar, popping into the conversation when it was appropriate and was on top of the service.  Shockingly enough (especially for those who know Cañon City), this checked every single box, and a 5 shaker was found in an unexpected place! 

Grand Junction

SoCo Social House

I met the owner of SoCo Social House at Tales of the Cocktail 2026. Our conversation was brief: I mentioned that I write a blog specializing in speakeasies, and he replied, “That’s awesome—I own a speakeasy.” That quick exchange put SoCo on our radar, and an August road trip finally brought us to Grand Junction.

Hidden behind a brick building downtown, SoCo is tucked away down an alley or through a hotel parking lot. There’s a small sign on the door, but from the street you’d never know it’s there. Inside, the cozy brick-walled space features a small bar, intimate seating, and a second room overlooking an open kitchen.

Although Scott wasn’t there, bartender Bo made the visit unforgettable. Friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate, he walked us through the seasonal cocktail menu, explaining the inspiration behind each drink. Most feature house-made syrups and bitters from a Colorado producer, resulting in inventive, beautifully balanced cocktails.

This falls into the category we hate, where the shaker rating does not give the full picture of the experience. Objectively, SoCo earns a 3-Shaker rating. The visible signage and lighter Prohibition theme keep it from scoring higher. But ratings don’t always capture the full experience. Exceptional cocktails, outstanding service, and a welcoming atmosphere make SoCo a place we’d happily return to again and again if we lived nearby.

Colorado Conclusion

In closing, this is our first speakeasy blog focusing on an entire state.  Most of these are still just in the “speakeasy style” and not true to our definition but there were a few standouts – Canary, Bookcase & The Barber, Minturn Whisky Co. And yes, we are still missing one or two around the state (specifically we had to skip Aspen and Vail). 

We love Colorado and all there is to see and experience.  It’s gotten a little long, but hopefully this will continue as a new trend to cover bars outside of a major metropolitan area.  We know some of you are anxious to explore cool places outside of urban expanses.  And we are here for it!

Please reach out and let us know where you think we need to cover next, or if you have any inside information on places, we need to get on our list to visit!

Other Speakeasy Guides

• Ultimate Speakeasy Guide – Ratings & Rankings
• Denver
• Las Vegas
• Boston
• San Diego
• Chicago
• Austin
• Seattle
• Kansas City
• Paris
• London
• Bali

Location

The nightly rate at Populus beat out all our Denver favorite hotels, but it was a little out of our preferred areas. We love the LoHi, RiNo, and Union Station areas.  Populus is just opposite the Capital building, but close to the Denver Art Museum, Colorado Convention Center, and the Denver Performing Arts Complex.  But, what the heck, we had reservations at Casa Bonita, so we were not tied to the downtown area, on a quick one-nighter in Mile High City, let’s try something new. 

Initial Impression

Populus’ mission is a sustainably focused hotel, with the amenities and service of a large hospitality group, but the unique personalization of an independent hotel.  And I cannot stress enough how impressed we were by their level of service, details, and considerations.

The outside of the hotel is unique, and I wasn’t feeling the art deco vibe when we first pulled up.  Later, looking at their website, they detail that the outside was designed after the aesthetic of the local Aspen trees – and now I get it, and it’s pretty cool and very Colorado.

Enter the lobby, restaurant to the left, Little Owl coffee bar to the right, and then the small check-in desk where we meet Nicole.  And she greets us with a big, beautiful smile.   We managed to get an upgrade and then we got the good information: happy hour in the bar, morning coffee in the executive rooftop lounge, water pitchers in the rooms, water fill stations by all the elevators, they will bring you ice if you need it.

And we head for the elevator, where inside the sounds are piping in a recording of a local Aspen Forest noises, it’s very peaceful.

Our Room

Our room, whew, our room was amazing!  The inside is all cement walls, in this smooth grey.  Fantastic wood details, and white linens.  It has a contemporary yet natural feel.  The oval windows line the walls with an incredible view of the State Capital and Civic Park.  We are definitely WOWed and simultaneously bummed that we have reservations and can’t just camp out for the night in this beautiful room.

The Lobby Bar

We had just enough time to grab a drink at the bar before happy hour ended on our way down, we stopped by to tell Nicole how amazing our room is and thank her.  Then we took our free drink token to the bar for a quick vodka soda, before noticing their drink selection.

And we meet Andrea, who was funny and engaging, and she introduces us to Thomas, who tells us how we missed out on his favorite drink:  Milk Punch, Vol 2.  A lemongrass, gin clarified milk punch.  Andrea is just finishing off one of the pre-mixed bottles for another order and poured each of us a taster.  It was fantastic and we were truly bummed we didn’t have time for one (or eight) more.

I loved the nature décor, and above the bar was a strange art installation that looked like animal hides hanging in a row, but it was beautiful and just worked within the space.  Zach was just coming on to shift, and we hated to say goodbye, but plans and reservations called, and we were off.

By the time we returned that evening, everything was shut down for the night, so we were off to a comfy bed and fantastic fluffy pillows.  The next morning was difficult.  It should have been a crime to have to get out of that bed.  It was a happy, relaxed morning just snuggled down under the covers as we both tried to get some work done.

Rooftop Lounge

Finally, the need for coffee and the remembrance of the rooftop “executive lounge access” called us to our feet.  As I mentioned, the hotel is just across from the state capital, the museum, and the Civic Center Park, so the view of the city is nice in the perfect sunny morning.  There was self-service coffee, tea, and water station, as well as a few pastries. 

We had not explored the rooftop restaurant, Stellar Jay, the evening before. This restaurant carries the nature vibes and gorgeous interior as the downstairs more casual dining restaurant, Pasque, but with an upscale elegant, intimate feel.  Two chefs prepping the daily menu ingredients, and even they were incredibly welcoming and nice.  There is an amazing back room for private groups that is done in a gorgeous apricot and cream color with that same beautiful view.  There was a slight smokey wood burning smell in the background which led me to believe that dinner in this elegant restaurant was going to be amazing.  Next time, we will be staying for dinner.

It was an absolutely perfect morning, enjoying coffee on the rooftop patio!

Breakfast Time

Back to the room for showers, with a wonderful walk-in shower with controls to use the wall spigot, overhead rainfall head, or the handheld shower head, incredible smelling toiletries, and finally we needed real food.

Down to Pasque for breakfast, and again, with incredible service. This time, we met Brandon.  He was amazing, funny, and connected with our need for the perfect bite and a cocktail for breakfast.  He was not available for adoption, but I did ask.  We actually spent a good part of the meal trying to figure out what drugs the staff were required to take that they were all so happy and kind.  He assured us that they really did like their job. This speaks huge volumes for us in recommending a place (The Virgin Hotel Dallas had the same vibe).

And Zach (from happy hour) was back tending bar, and we finally scored the Milk Punch, Vol 2.  And it was incredible.  The breakfast menu was fantastic with fresh, local, seasonal ingredients – everything sounded so good, we opted for a couple of the toasts!

Oh, and then we ask about the hanging animal hides.  And Zach tells us that they are actually sheets of wild mushroom processed into leather-like material that is used in their decorating.  Yes, VEGAN LEATHER in their quest to further their sustainability level. This leather is used throughout the hotel and it is gorgeous (no, it doesn’t look like the hides that are hanging above the bar)!!

Our breakfast was running a little long, so without question they extended our checkout time for us.  Yes, sadly, we had to leave, and I was left with the same feeling I had in Langkawi, we screwed up, one night was not enough.

Sadly, Time to Checkout

For those that value sustainability, I wanted to share this from The Populus website: 

“At Populus, we believe protecting the planet is a collective responsibility and journey.  The heartbeat of Populus is a deep reverence for nature.  It started at the beginning with the biophilic architecture and use of locally-sourced, recycled, or sustainably-certified building materials during the construction process.  It extends throughout the guest experience, with One Night One Tree initiative, a commitment to source food from regenerative, organic farmers, and an on-site biodigester that composts 100% of food waste.  At Populus, we have a deep reverence for nature.  As stewards of the built environment, we believe we have a responsibility to offset our impact.  That’s why, for every night you stay at our hotel, we’ll plant a tree.”

This has entered the top of my list for favorite stays.  We cannot thank the staff enough for the incredible service and we cannot wait to make it to Populus Seattle in October.

Check out more: Our Favorite Places to Stay

That is how we will remember Austin for the foreseeable future – lots and lots of eclectic drinking spots with lots and lots of cocktails.  This is a great town for drinking.

If you’ve already read our Austin Speakeasy blog, then you know: our long weekend in Austin was packed with all the places you must drink when you are in the city for a fun girls’ weekend, college friends reunion, or bachelorette party.  But it’s also prime for day drinking.  When you are trying to avoid the humidity, there are upscale places, original and iconic drinking spots, and way more to this amazing city than just the ‘Dirty Sixth’.

Sister Side Note (ssn) – when we say Day Drinking, that is just a place to start and leads into evening. Many of these places don’t open until 5:00 pm, so be sure to check their hours.

The Tiniest Bar in Texas

This was not on the list.  Never planned, a stumble of good fortune.  We were about 45 min early for our dinner reservation and right up the road was a spot on Google Maps listed as The Tiniest Bar in Texas.  How do you pass up something as superlative as that?

Simple and inviting, The Tiniest Bar in Texas is really just a patio attached to a shed.  But it’s covered (read: shaded), has Christmas lights, and a short and sweet menu of drinks and shots.  Perfect for our one and done. But they also have music and TVs, and you could conceivably spend a few hours just hanging out with friends here.  We, however, had dinner plans and opted for the one and done of a couple of quick shots and some waters (stay hydrated in this town!). A disco ball with glitter and a green tea shot and we were off to dinner!

The Cloak Room

You will see this pop up on several lists of speakeasies.  With its dark, downstairs basement vibe, we can understand why.  But according to our rules and regulations, it is not a speakeasy.  It is not hidden, there is no secret to it. It’s a well-known drinking spot for many people working in the blocks around the capital.

It is, however, dark.  Like remember our Seattle speakeasy where we were warned it was dark, and it wasn’t?  This one was.  As in, I almost sat on a hutch thinking it was a bar stool, couldn’t see two feet in front of me until my eyes adjusted dark.  It does however have a jukebox, and intimate seating, and Francis behind the bar was the real gem of this place.

Not a great place if you are in a party mood, but perfect for a pre-date cocktail or for a happy hour.

Note: no pictures, it was much too dark to photograph.

Nickel City

A fantastic dive bar, yes, please.  There are many dive bars in Austin, but there is one that gets an absolute stop, yes, go, from us!  Nickel City has this homey, friendly, neighborhood bar feeling. But they also have a great bar menu of classic bar fried foods.  And they are not so divey that they don’t have an impressive cocktail list and whiskey selection.  Their martinis were ordered by darn near everyone around us but we opted for simple bourbon and ginger and a vodka soda.

Nickel City makes many lists of The Best Bars in Austin. Both the Infatuation and the World’s 50 Best list it along with Roosevelt Room for their 2025 lists.

ssn – it was so tempting to have a martini but we had many stops and thought it best to start out easy.

The Roosevelt Room

Exquisite, the perfect word to describe The Roosevelt Room.  With a long list of accolades and awards, for both the bar and the bartenders, The Roosevelt Room is sheer perfection in an upscale cocktail bar.  The drinks range from creative and unique to prohibition-era classics.  They have a huge menu, but also an enormous chalkboard above the bar that lists cocktails by era.  This was also a learning experience for leveling up our cocktail knowledge. I was unaware that my beloved Caipirinha is actually from the turn of the century, or that the Moscow Mule is from the post-Volstead time period.

Dumont’s Down Low

If you are into historic drinking spots, and especially if you are into rumors of a haunted pub, hit up Dumont’s Down Low.  We were drawn in for the ghost story, we stayed because it is super cool and sucked us in with their chill, laid back vibe.  Down the stairs off of Sixth Street, into a basement. But not dark basement, more like woodsy, whiskey barrel lined, brick wall elegance without being pretentious.

And never speak badly of Blanche, the former madam of the former brothel that was originally housed in this building.  She is sensitive and appreciates being acknowledged.  I had the Bantha Milk – and heaven knows I can’t remember what was in it, but it was a creamy blue color and dang good.  Peggy opted for the Seasonal Milk Punch, which was a honeycomb-based cocktail.

Dead Rabbit

New York’s famed Irish bar has a location down on Sixth Street, this place is solid.  If you love a good Irish bar, make sure Dead Rabbit is on your list.  Get yourself a perfectly poured Guinness. Or if you just need an escape from the heat, get yourself one of their Frozen Irish Coffees.  Andrew made an effort to connect with everyone at the bar. He was chatty and helpful. There was a constant flow of people coming in and out, making this a great afternoon hangout spot.

In Plain Sight

Among the other downtown bars, In Plain Sight stands out, in that it definitely does not stand out if you are on the street.  It is designed with funky window covers so that you can only see inside from certain angles.  So basically, don’t stop and fix your hair or your panties on the corner of Brazos and Seventh.  Inside, it’s a small 10-seater bar, bright, white, and cheerful.

Now we had the unfortunate luck to be seated in front of some douchey guy looking to impress people. But Nicole and Chad behind the bar made up for it.  They have hand embossed ice cubes, and this machine that makes your cocktail glass nice and frosty cold.  They have a seasonal list of curated cocktails that are color based – a full rainbow of cocktails.  Peggy’s old fashioned was bright red (made with Big Red soda syrup). While I had a purply clarified pear and brandy beautiful drink.  If you want fun, different, and happy, this is your bar!

Jupiter Supper Club

While this had made it on our original list of bars we wanted to visit, we really weren’t sure we were going to have time to fit it in and had dropped it from our itinerary.  However, with a glowing recommendation from Shalay at Red Headed Stepchild, when we ended up with a block of time before our Here nor There reservation, we made the effort and the walk to JSC.

Upscale and fantastic, we are so glad we made the time! We are very in love with their tagline: Timeless Maximalist Luxury.  Every room in the JSC has a different theme and feel, and each is elegant and beautiful in its own way.

We opted for seats at the second-floor blue room bar, where JT made me an excellent Saffron Espresso Martini and Peggy had her best drink of the trip in the Osaka Seagrass, which came with a seaweed salt wrap to give it that salty, ocean-y feel.  We also highly recommend ordering yourself beet crisps with the avocado mousse.  The restaurant is entirely vegan, so try some outstanding culinary creations while you are there – it is a supper club, after all.

ssn – The Osaka Seagrass won my 2025 my Sip of the Year!

The Aquarium

I am only throwing this into our list for one reason and one reason only: Giant Snake Slide.  This is right in the heart of Dirty 6^th.  Just another bar lining the street with big bass music blaring into the street, awesome drink specials (yay for $5 green tea shots), friendly service.  But you have absolutely got to jump inside, have a shot, then head upstairs, and then slide down the giant snake and out through the mouth.  You are never too old for a good slide!

ssn- most of the 6th Street bars are open in the afternoons, so pop in and check them out while it isn’t crowded and loud!

Final Thoughts on Austin

There are so many places to drink.  So many amazing restaurants that have great bars, so many bars that have great food.  Austin is a perfect destination for a long weekend with the girls.  Don’t miss the bats at sunset, but then get your butt back to drinking, because there are so many amazing places to drink in Austin, and something for every vibe and mood.  We will go back, we will add to this list, I have no doubt.  Let us know if we missed your favorites, or where we need to hit on the next trip.

Others in the Day Drinking Series

• Boise
• Reno
• Seattle
• Dallas
• Savannah
• Kansas City
• Santa Fe

My day job’s corporate office is located in Austin, TX.  And the fact that the city promotes the “Keep Austin Weird” life, I was ready to explore and embrace the lifestyle.  A work trip presented itself, Peggy was absolutely down to join me. 

Thus, the planning began, and the holy cow there are a lot of speakeasies in Austin. And some seriously cool vibey looking bars.  Our biggest concern was the overwhelming number of options. Well, and the humidity, but that’s a whole other story. But how to narrow it down?  With a full itinerary, and four whole days to cram as much #sisbehaving in as possible, we made reservations where we could, then developed a secondary list of fill-in options.  So, buckle up, babies, this is going to be a long one!

Watertrade

Our first stop of the night was an accidental “experience”.  Watertrade was selected out of Peggy’s love of Asian inspired bars.  It leans heavily on a Japanese theme and an Izakaya feel; it is attached to a small omakase restaurant called Otoko.

The Entrance

We rate heavily on the entrance when it comes to speakeasies.  It must have a hidden entrance to truly be considered a speakeasy.  No big flashy signs, no way to know it’s there unless you know, you know.  Our Uber dropped us off at the South Congress Hotel (side note – gorgeous hotel, we can’t wait to stay there), and we cannot figure out where Watertrade is.  Finally, we just ask the hotel desk. We are told “down this hall, out to the courtyard and up the stairs”.

The side exit from the hotel leads to a courtyard with a restaurant, a bar, and a cute patio area. There was a beautiful fountain, then at the very back, metal stairs.  No marking, no way to know, we just trusted the hotel and went up the stairs. Yes, mom, that’s how you get kidnapped by the cartel in Mexico, but we are just in Texas, so I’m sure it’s fine. A rustic, heavy metal door at the top, with a simple Otoko on the side of the door, and a wooden handle. 

The Experience – Cocktails

The hostess leads us into this beautiful mood-lit room, with heavy wood, dark seating, a smokey mirrored ceiling.  GORGEOUS!!!  She informs us that we picked a good night to be there as they were having a sake tasting that night with several sake brewers from Japan.  So, yay, that sounds amazing (we were excited but completely underestimated how awesome it would be).

Steve brings our menu; Steph comes over and explains that the menu concept is based around the 24 micro-seasons of Japanese agriculture.  The standard four seasons are broken down into micro seasons – the menu, plays on that in a beautifully styled elegance of cocktail creations. 

Dustin comes over to check in with us.  He is the Sake Som, a sake sommelier.  I’m telling you the service at Watertrade was amazing.  We were given great attention, great explanations, they walked us through their concepts, their input, and made the whole visit into an experience for us.  We ordered drinks (Peggy’s played off a grapefruit spritz, mine was cognac with a clarified pineapple liquor – both amazing), but we absolutely needed to take part in the sake tasting, so we split a flight.

The Experience – Sake Tasting

This is where we are introduced to Monica, the brewers host, with Kome Collective.  She is delightful!  We could be friends, we should be friends, we loved her.  She’s also half Japanese, like my sister, so we are like family.  She brings the brewers over one by one to present their sake.  And I have to say: the first sample was the best sake I have ever had.  We are far from experts but love a good sake, this one was amazing.

The brewers, via Monica, shared the history of their brewery, the location, the climate, and the different rice strains used in their product (Chiyonosono uses a rare, ancient, previously extinct rice).  It was amazing.  The brewers were so kind. We thought they were so cute (plus, we were sad we didn’t speak Japanese). We realized this morning that we neglected to buy bottles, because we could have had them signed by the brewer.  I want to be sure to mention them by name, so if you are a sake person or frequent Japanese sake bars, you will want to try them.

ssn – the sake is shown in the last picture. Sake (from left) Tentaka “Hawk in the Heavens”, Rihaku “Dance of Discovery” Junmai, Chiyonosono “Sacred Power” Junmai Ginjo

Eden Cocktail Room

Next stop was one Peggy was excited for with its secret entrance.  Just a purple door with a red light over it, down a back alley.  Side note – we took our very first Waymo – the driverless car – to get there, and that was a full experience with anxiety and a Disney sing-along.

The Entrance

True to the social media rumors, Eden Cocktail Room is down an alley, next to a parking garage, with no signage. Just a purple door and a red speakeasy style light over the door.  Shaker for the hidden entry, no shaker for a challenge to get in.

The Experience

Luckily, it was early, and the place was empty except for one couple sitting at a table.  The bartender invited us to sit at the bar, you don’t have to ask us twice.  David couldn’t tell us his favorites since he curated the menu and has a fatherly love for them all.  I order the Banana Pants, because it sounds like The Banana Stand from Swordfish Tom’s in Kansas City (and there’s always money in the banana stand).  Honestly, it is damn close to cocktail of the year in my world.

Peggy orders their take on an old fashioned.  Then we get to talking.  David was amazing.  Turns out he did have 4 drinks that he was especially proud of, and we had ordered two of them.  So, I admit to breaking the one and done rule, but for a good cause, the Emerald Rodeo Fan.  It looked Oz inspired, green base with pink foam (blackberry) floating on top, it was absolutely beautiful.  This is where I would be later blamed repeatedly for Peggy’s drunk and tired state of mind.

David was from New York City, had been to Denver several times, we talked about Death & Co, and places he had worked.  He started as a bar back at Franklin Mortgage in Philadelphia.  He has mad skills and a great point of view, and we loved hearing about his inspiration and cocktail development process.  It was a great experience for us.  We also were fortunate to meet Ariana, she runs a speakeasy tour in Austin, so we will be hoping for a collaboration in the future!

Small Victory

Our last stop for the night. Although it seems like a quick night, that last round of cocktails was serving us well, and it was definitely time for a shutdown.

The Entrance

Bonus points to them that we had trouble finding Small Victory.  We stopped into a bar that was close to where the location was, which was awkward and I don’t want to out them for the strange interaction, but they did tell us to look for the red gate.

Passed two parking garages there was a red metal gate door with a dim neon sign that just said BAR.  Inside the red gate were curved cement stairs.  Top of the stairs there was an unmarked wood door, and boom there we were.  Shaker for the hard to find.

The Experience

It was fine.  No real theme, but it was a pretty room.  The long room style with a bar on one wall, and one-sided bench seating spanning the other wall.  I think there was just no standout WOW factor.  Looking back, I think what was throwing me off was this beautiful, almost elegant bar, and then the staff were in shorts, T-shirts, and ball caps.  It just didn’t go with the aesthetics.  But our server was nice and personable, nothing special, but friendly and helpful.

They have a good cocktail list but will definitely go off-menu if you tell them what you are feeling, what you like, and what is in your wheelhouse.  I have nothing bad to say about Small Victory, we liked them, but it wasn’t a standout experience.

Trona

Trona is a stand-out experience (spoiler alert: we loved it). We Ubered over to Trona in East Austin for our reservation at 5:00.  Little neighborhood street, we were walking past the doorways, one says “Trona entrance use back alley” or something close.  We were a tad sad about the sign, but can’t fault them for making sure people could actually find them. The block they sit on looks like it used to be an ecclectic fun area that just got a little run down.

The Entrance

We make our way around the block and into the back alley. Where we see a plain metal door with a huge metal lightening bolt on it.  We ring the doorbell, viewing window slides open, and we have to give them the code word (they will text it to you if you have a reservation).  The hostess walked us down a long, pretty hallway, giving it a very remote feel to what was coming at the next doorway.

The Experience

From the moment Maddie opened the door, we were enthralled.  The room we were led into had a smokey feel to it, almost like a smoked cocktail, but there was no smokey smell or burnt wood feel.  It had a very Oaxacan feel, adobe walls, a large bobcat stuffed over the bar.  They specialize in Mezcal, Tequila, and Japanese Whiskey.  However, Blake explained to us that the owner has a passion for drinking culture, and he was fascinated with both Japanese drinking culture and Mexico’s tequila culture.

After our initial drinks, Samuel made us a couple of “samples” from the menu that he felt we should try, Maddie joined in, and suddenly we were sitting with old friends, just catching up.  Service was outstanding, and we felt like a couple of regulars always welcome and always with a bar stool ready for us.

The Treasury

Mark this one as a “right place, right time” visit. It was on our list, but we happened to notice Shangri-la while on our way to The Nickel Room, and decided we better hit this up while we were there. We loved Shangri-la, and are disappointed we didn’t have time to stay and experience this place, apparently it’s quite the Austin iconic bar. However, The Treasury needed to be visited

The Entrance

We had to ask the Shangri-la bartender where to find The Treasury, so that checked the hidden box for us. Go through Shangri-la, out to their back patio, head around to the left and start looking around. You’ll find it. It’s a door, you need to be let in, call them up and beg for entrance.

The Experience

They did a great job on the theme of an old bank vault. You enter the door, down the stairs, and walk through a safety deposit box hallway to a vault door and into the back bar area. My personal favorite part was the restrooms being marked as “Deposits”. It was dark and moody, like an old stuffy banker would expect – and I don’t mean that in a bad way, more in a “cool, create the theme” kind of way, velvet and dark wood.

The service was a bit awkward, I’m just not sure I can give them a shaker for mediocre service, and I hate to do that to the bartender, but they were awkward and not friendly. I am hopefully that someone else will chime in with a cooler experience; maybe when it’s later in the evening and there are more people and better energy.

Milonga Room

In case you were wondering:  A “milonga” is a tango dance party or event, usually held on a regular basis, where tango enthusiasts gather to dance and socialize. The venue itself may also be referred to as a milonga. So, while this was a positive review, I’m now left questioning why in the world we didn’t get to tango.  And, frankly, feeling slightly ripped off.

The Entrance

Sadly, not hidden.  It had great potential, it’s off street, in the back basement of street level restaurants (The Buenos Aires Café) with an entrance that is technically in the parking lot.  It has a doorbell.  But disappointingly, it had a sign outside pointing you to the door. We are still awarding ½ shaker because the sign in the parking lot is not immediately visible and the doorbell gets another ½ shaker.

The Experience

Holy cow, it is cute.  Pretty room, low ceilings with big white deco tiles.  The theme is South American, and yes, now that I realize the meaning of Milonga, I can absolutely see where this could be a South American bar that would have a dance floor in the next room.

Loved the seating and the feel.  LOVED that instead of shots they offer “pequenos” – little baby drinks of the day.  Of course, we had them and sent two over to the couple in the corner who looked like they needed a little fun in their life.  Our server was excellent.  The fries from the upstairs restaurant were amazing.  And yes, our drinks were fantastic.  This place is a win, it hits our “must do” list for Austin Speakeasies, but unfortunately it only hits a 4-shaker, without a secret entrance or a task to complete.  But full shakers for quality of service, theme, and cocktails.

Firehouse Lounge

Firehouse Lounge was our first stop on day three, it opens at noon, and yes, it is in an actual hostel. 

The Entrance

There was a “Bar is Open” sign on the sidewalk but doesn’t say anything else giving you any insight.  You step into the lobby of the hostel and there is simply a bookshelf on the wall.  And the bookshelf has a handle.  Slide it open, boom, speakeasy. To be fair, there is a sign with “Firehouse Lounge Hours” right next to the bookshelf so we are only giving 1/2 shaker.

The Experience

It was dark, it was hidden, it was cool in a laidback way.  The chairs at the bar were super tall, there was a DJ booth. But it was early afternoon, so we were happy that it wasn’t going, and we were alone in the bar.  Gabriel was nice enough, but seemed busy with set up and prep work, so we were easily sticking to our one and done.  Solid drink selection, solid execution, and presentation.  Minimal service, but hey, disco balls!

Powder Room

This is a whole story that starts with the bummer news that the Powder Room was closed for a private party on Friday night (day 3 for us) but ends with a personal invitation to return and a VIP-like experience.

The Entrance – Attempt 1

Powder Room is located behind Manny’s sandwich shop.  The entrance to Manny’s is beautiful, with plants and arches, and a patio.  We had decided to alter our schedule and fit this stop in a day early since we had a break in our schedule.  As we are taking pictures from the front, we meet Paul.  Paul apologizes, but they are closed for a private party.  And they are setting up currently, so no, we can’t even go in to see it.

Paul recommends a few other stops, which we had already been to or had reservations for already.  I feel like at this point he starts to take us seriously.  Then Paul says that if we want to stop by after 10, they will open back up after the party and to text him if we can make it, and he will get us in to Powder Room. We ask about Red Headed Stepchild, he say oh absolutely go there.  Peggy asks if he has the code, and he says, “Hold Please”, picks up his phone and makes a call for us.   One of his bartenders also works there, shares the code, and we are off to RHSC. 

The Entrance – Attempt 2

We texted him later in the evening to say we were on our way; he responds that he let his “people” know.  We show up, and it is total big city club-looking, with rope lines and pretty people.  One line for “Reservations and guests” and one line for walk ins, for this we are unprepared and have no idea what we are doing there.  So, we walk up to the security guy, with his earpiece and pretty suit, and say “Can you let Paul know that Peggy and Patti are here”, he responds with “He’s expecting you, I’ll let him know you are here” – like WOW, we felt special.

Paul comes to get us, and this adorable man in jeans and a sandwich T-shirt is now decked out in black dress shirt and tie and looking like Whoa!  So, boom, we skip the line, and he takes us on in! (and we are enamored with Paul!)

The Experience

Through the industrial kitchen doors, into a cloak room, where a lovely person ensures you hand over your phone before entering.  No phones allowed inside.  She checks it like a coat, and hands you a key for when you are done.  Through the next set of curtains, and WOW!  It is gorgeous, this room is beautiful.  Pink, gold arches, mirrors etched with flamingos, plants, and a giant stuffed cheetah above the bar.  We were super sad not to be able to take pictures.

We find a space at the standing room only bar, order our drinks and I realize my drink order perfectly describes the ambiance: Miami Vice-ish!  It was so Miami Vice retro elegance!  I loved it.  There was a DJ, so it was loud, and there’s plenty of tables and seats around the edges, and the ability to reserve tables and bottle service, and it was fantastic. 

Additional cool details, Paul, the Operations Manager, after he walked us in, was bar backing.  Like he saw the need and jumped in to help his people.  He also took the time to make us a couple of shots he deemed important for us to try – as he stated, they were from their original menu, not on the current menu, but he really wanted us to try them.

We woke up the next morning to a thank you from Paul for coming by and an invitation to come back on Monday to experience Powder Room as it was intended, as a cocktail lounge, not as the nightclub we experienced.  We were disappointed we were not going to be there on Monday!

Red Headed Stepchild

This place hits every single list, every single recommendation article we read, everyone says “Go to Red Headed Stepchild”. So, naturally, we were skeptical that it would live up to the hype.  No reservations, but you have to know the secret code.

The Entrance

Disguised as a Floppy Disk Repair shop, Red Headed Stepchild is hidden behind a side door.  You’ll know it when you see it.  There is a huge ax door handle.  As I mentioned, you must get the code.  We were fortunate enough to have run into Paul at Powder Room, who had a bartender who also worked at RSC, and he gave Shalay a call and hooked us up.  Clicks that hidden and challenged box for shakers.

The Experience

Like I said, we were skeptical.  And we were proved wrong, as it absolutely lived up to the hype.  You enter the door, there is a chain mail style curtain into a small-ish room with three swing seats at the bar, some normal bar stools, and a wall of booth seating.  On the wall, is a stuffed deer head wearing a Silence of the Lamb mask, a TV showing the original Nightmare on Elm Street.  The menu was extensive, great drinks, great names, great bylines.  Baby dolls hanging from the corners, and demented looking carnival décor.  The bathroom is a tribute to The Shining with bloody splatters and REDRUM sprawled across the mirror.

Jello shots, great bartenders, great regulars popping in.  It was so much fun, so well done, it topped our list.  And Shalay!  Loved her!  I mean Joe was great too, but Shalay double checked our itinerary and provided us with input, asked us to check back in with her and let her know how Kinfolk was, and was just an amazing person in a fabulous lace skirt!

Bar Hacienda

Bar Hacienda we later found out is owned by the same people as Here Nor There and In Plain Sight.  Inside Tiger Lilly, it is well hidden staircase down to a beautiful speakeasy atmosphere with curtains and a luxurious Havana feel.

The Entrance

While it is definitely hidden, there is no challenge to get in, no reservations needed, just walk in and try to get a seat.  Tiger Lilly is magnificent with a curved staircase up to the second floor once you pass the bar, but continue on past the bar to the left, and there is a staircase, slightly hidden behind a half wall.  It is dark and moody, but in an elegant way, not a creepy way.

The Experience

We were not feeling very welcome, the bartender was clearly distracted and was like “sit wherever or stand over there, whatever” spiel.  We opted for two loveseats by the door to people watch, where they had the softest, brushed lambs wool pillows.

And that’s when we were approached by Terrance, who saved our experience.  He was fantastic, made great suggestions, let us know about our Happy Hour special flub (not ordering a third drink on their buy 2 get one free special) and overcame that flub by splitting us a Hemingway Daiquiri.  He lived up to the standard set by other Austin establishments of impeccable service.  Well-themed, good cocktails, a second room that expanded the length of the basement, so plenty of comfy seating for all. 

Garage

Great concept.  Hide a bar inside a parking garage.  It includes free parking, right in the middle of a heavily tourist area in a heavy tourist town.  But how can we make this feel more upscale?  Candles and subway tiles?  Sure, that would work.

The Entrance

If you pass a parking garage, and over the entrance it says “cocktails” you should immediately be suspicious.  There is a big neon sign inside that reads “Garage”, but you are standing in a garage, so you really don’t question it.  Until you walk around the side by the pedestrian ramp and notice the lit candles.

The Experience

We struggled with this one.  It was like we should have loved it.  But it was a “did we really like that?” kind of feeling that created doubt in our mind.  On theme, for sure.  The walls are cement like a parking garage, there is some beautiful teal subway tile, that kind of looks old school in the setting it has been placed.  The bar is beautiful; the lighting is beautiful.  But we started off with a reservation snafu.  The host was lovely about it, and gracious, and escorted us to bar seating, which we prefer anyway.

The service was just ok, not overbearing, not ignoring us, but not friendly, just doing their job, here you go, don’t make too much effort, but just okay.  The drinks stick with the moto-theme, and we enjoyed the selection.  But that was about it.  It was fine.  It comes highly recommended by others in the service industry, so we think maybe we just caught it on an off night, because it wasn’t a standout, and as I believe I stated, Just Okay.  Would it make our list again?  Probably not.  But was it worth the visit?  Probably. 

Kinfolk Lounge & Library

We kind of felt like our Friday night was just off beat.  Not one of our best.  The Powder Room being closed for a private party, The Garage just being meh, I mean I did get to slide down a snake slide and out it’s mouth at a bar in the on 6th Street, and I did get shots from one of my children’s old high school friends.  But we were kind of ready to be done with the night, and getting to Kinfolk 45 minutes early and having to wait at the bar of Moonshine that left us just over it.  And then Kinfolk happened!!

The Entrance

The host came to get us at the bar, back by the restrooms is a gate leading down a staircase that is lined with beautiful stained-glass windows with a martini in one, an old fashioned still inlaid into the other.  Bottom of the stairs to a standard speakeasy style door: metal, heavy, and with a sliding peep hole.

The Experience

And this is where our night takes a 180˚.  We walk into this amazing cave like room, carved out of stone.  Through a small room with 4 little two-person cocktail tables and a small bar, into the backroom cave with a long community table.  It is known as a spirits library, the walls are lined with a wide array of spirits, old new, common, and rare, beautiful glass shelves built into these amazing white stone walls.

We are squeezed in between two small groups into the only two chairs left, I’m skeptical and irritated that we are being squeezed in.  But the two groups are talking and laughing, and Cameron walks up with our “welcome drinks”, and you KNOW we love a welcome drink.  Cameron, with his long hair and funky hat tells us that it is based on an apricot liquor from Austria, and we are like “omg, we had apricot liquor in Austria” and get excited.  The men next to us chat with us about our Austria experience, we talk about our travels and our blog, they are tabbing out and leaving.

We turn our attention to the women at the other end of the table, who are loud and full of laughter.  We play a little game they invented called “guess which one of us is a lesbian” and we laugh and talk, it ends up being an amazing time.  Bringing two extroverts’ new energy, these women were a blessing.  They leave, we meet a lovely couple and chat with them, they need to go to Bali with me next year.  We are sad that we are now alone at our community table, but know we have a night that needed to finish off strong!

The Case Room

Our last day started with a little road trip. The Case Room is admittedly, not in Austin.  But when we promoted our trip on Instagram, they were cool enough to reach out and personally invite us down to Lockhart to experience their small-town speakeasy. Lockhart is about 30 min south, and be sure to leave yourself extra time for the best BBQ in Texas and for the first ever Pudding Bar (yes, pudding, non-alcoholic, but freaking fantastic pudding – World Famous according to Southern Living Magazine).

The Entrance

Hidden within a guitar shop on a side street in the little town, it did sadly have a sign out front directing you to the back alley.  Once again, mom, Peggy made me go into a back alley to drink with strangers.  The alley is cute, then you get to the back of the stone building, and there are little patios and signs. So, not exactly hidden, and no task to get in, but still super cute and we were happy we made the trip.

The Experience

We fail to get our bartenders name, but shoutout to him. He was a musician from Seattle, and he was great!  We had just missed Lockhart’s “First Friday” celebration the night before, but he said they were packed last night, and that was probably why they were so dead while we were there.  They have several drinks made with “Hay Liqueur”.  Sounds gross, but we, of course, must know.  Turns out it’s a liqueur from the hills of Italy, and it’s actually sweet, much like you would expect a corn liqueur to taste (no, not Bourbon, but a fancy liqueur).  It was a great basis for a sweet tea.

The Case Room has an old school jukebox in the corner, they even provide the quarters.  How do you pass up Loretta Lynn and Waylon Jennings, they also had a little Don Williams, Chubby Checker, and CSN, and SURPRISE, one Sabrina Carpenter record (the old fashion kind with two sides).

Jenn checks in for work and shows us puppy pictures and their local fuzzy customers.  They keep dog treats on the bar and your well-behaved furry friends are loved there.  A great bar, we are glad we took the time to visit them and can’t wait to go back (and will get more pudding from the corner store).

Midnight Cowboy

In a bygone era, Midnight Cowboy was a brothel disguised as an “Oriental Massage” parlor.  Now, how do you pass up an opportunity to go here, with a history like that.  And for hoping for a few ghost stories.

The Entrance

The location of Midnight Cowboy is right in the middle of what’s known as the “Dirty 6^th”. On 6^th street, in the blocks that turn into a party scene at night, with bar after bar, big thumping music filling the streets and gimmicky drink specials.

However, at a certain location, there is just a wall, and a door.  There is a little buzzer list like you find in city apartments to be let into someone’s home, little buttons with names next to them.  Right next to the door is a doorbell.  You simply need to know what you are looking for, and which button is the right one to push.  There is absolutely no other sign you are in the right place.

The Experience

A small room, with about 4 booths on either side, and a bar at the back.  Until a party of 6 showed up, we didn’t realize that the hallway past the bar led to not just the restrooms, but three private rooms, with alcoves that seat 6-8.  But it’s small, and intimate, and not made for big parties, like a good speakeasy should be.

The current theme was Cowboys and Aliens, with great drinks in a menu reading much like an old-timey comic book.  This menu has smoked cocktails, spirit-forward, and also a light and fruity selection.  There are also a few cocktails they will prepare tableside; these are not marked on the menu because they want you to order based on what you want, not based on the presentation.  We loved this and we loved them.  Midnight Cowboy nailed it, and it scored our second 5-Shaker review of the Austin Experience.

Here Nor There

Our last stop finished strong.  It had been a long trip, and we were shockingly still standing, and coherent enough to make our 9:00 pm reservation, these old(ish) women were pushing their curfew limits. 

The Entrance

Hidden, check.  A metal gated door, you need the door code texted to you, so reservations are needed and must be requested through their app.  Through the gate, check in with Austin, the person not the city.  He was fantastic, personable, friendly, and makes sure they are ready for you. 

The Experience

Enter down a few steps to a small room with a giant stuffed wolf standing on 2 legs.  Luckily, our wolf friend is holding a tray of “palette cleansers” in the form of bubbly.  Check-in with the hostess, grab your welcome beverage, and follow through the curtains. 

Dark room, yes, but velvet walls and ceilings, plants and vine/root structures. Old photos, cozy booths, this place had a fantastic intimate feel of a speakeasy.  Their menu and theme celebrate endangered and indigenous cultures.  Each menu item includes the heritage of the cocktail.  It was really a full experience, and our third (and final) 5-Shaker rating of the trip!

Our Speakeasy Wrap Up

Our Austin Speakeasy Tour was an amazing experience.  It is weird, slightly wild, has its seedier parts, but the people cannot be beat. Austin has some great neighborhoods, from the “Dirty 6th” to South Congress to East Austin, the Warehouse District, and Rainey Street. Austin has amazing, themed bars, live music, and culture, just something for everyone.  They know how to do bars, clubs, and speakeasies.

It was a challenge to push through it all, our livers need to be wrung out and hung to dry.  However, we met so many amazing people, so many stories were told; the staff were all supportive of other establishments, loved their jobs, and were happy to send you on to their favorite recommendations. Absolutely, book yourself a trip to Austin!

As a bonus, if you want some of the best Day Drinking spots in Austin, check out our Day Drinking post!

Other Speakeasy Guides

• Ultimate Speakeasy Guide – Ratings & Rankings
• Las Vegas
• Boston
• San Diego
• Chicago
• Denver
• Colorado (outside of Denver)
• Kansas City
• Seattle
• London
• Paris
• Bali

We little “l” love a speakeasy but we capital “L” Love Seattle.  Even in the dreary rainy winter months, Seattle is beautiful, fun, and so welcoming. Or maybe that’s just us: beautiful, fun, and so welcoming.

Especially when we violate our one-and-done rule, multiple times.

The Speakeasy Plan

Peggy, the ultimate planner, needed a trip.  We realized that while we had covered Seattle Day Drinking and all things Seattle, we had neglected to ever write about the speakeasy scene.  So, the planning began.  With a Google Map and a spreadsheet, the list making began.  Night one was South Lake Union and a possible trip to Pioneer Square.  Night two would focus on our favorite neighborhood, Capitol Hill.

Peggy arrived in Seattle one night early. As we soon found out this was an important side note. She told EVERYONE she had to go out alone her first night here because I didn’t come up until Friday morning.

Sister Side Note (ssn) – I will be referring to this as Night Zero, or maybe more formally as Night Zero, the prequel?

We had been to a few speakeasies on prior trips, those are included at the end for the sake of completeness.

For more information on our complete speakeasy ranking and rating “Shaker” system, click here

Rich Rich

The Entrance

At 4:00 pm on the dot, a door opens in this big-city-grungy back alley. Out walks cute little Abby with a sandwich board to set on the street (sorry, half a shaker loss for the putting up of a sign).  Without a sign, you are looking for a simple alley door with a pink neon blobby sign over the door. 

(Yes, mom, we wandered down a back alley in a big city, at night. . . but at least it was not in South Southern California.)

Sister Side Note (ssn) – don’t mention that we were lingering around waiting for 4:00. Looking sketchy and suspiciously eyeing the alley like we were waiting to make a drug deal.

The Experience

It’s dark and pink, and has a disco ball (you might remember from Cartagena, my love of a disco ball)!!  A big chalkboard displayed the drink list, a bar and a few pink booths behind us.  Huge silver mylar balloons above the booths spelled out RICH RICH. Apparently, we had just missed their first anniversary party by a few days.

Bartender Abby is darling.  Peggy starts her night off in a very Peggy way, a Porn Star martini. To no one’s surprise; if it’s on a menu, she’s getting it.  I had a “Banana Flower” which was passionfruit cachaça (OMG, I did not know that was even a thing, BUT IT IS), pineapple, lime, and random other weird stuff, which was so good.  It wasn’t too sweet, it wasn’t too sour, it was perfectly balanced flavors.

Then we make our mistake number 1 of the night. We have 20 minutes to kill before heading to Unlisted, so we decide to have a second round. Thus violating the one-and-done trust that we are supposed to have with one another.

Second round, the very unusual “Chocolate Negroni”, I’m still not sure how I feel about this. It had a great taste, but the end was bitter and hung with you. Peggy had the “Cream Soda Old Fashioned”, which I was super excited for, but the cream soda didn’t come through as much as we had hoped.

The Shakers

Overall, half a shaker for the hidden aspect, no shaker for entrance, one shaker for Abby’s amazing service and friendly engagement with us, one shaker for great drinks, and a shaker commitment to the disco-vibey theme.

[Unlisted]

And I have a new favorite speakeasy, sorry for the back step Denver’s Williams & Graham, but [Unlisted] has taken my heart.

We had tagged them in a social media post earlier in the week, they had responded that they were holding us a table at 5:00.  So, yay, thanks for engaging on Instagram.

The Entrance

We show up and Sara (without an H, Peggy wanted to make sure I remembered this detail) is putting out sandwich boards.  You know we frown at this, but they simply have an elephant on them and the word [UNLISTED], so we have deemed this acceptable.  Down the alley behind The Ruins Event Center, there is a door.  There is a light over the door, if the red light is on then they are open (and we will discuss other red light situations later on in a slight diversion in our evening).  No sign on the door, no hours posted, we are loving this from the get-go.

We enter and are immediately Wowed.  You walk in and immediately head down some metal industrial steps.  Since we are the only ones there and they just opened, we are greeted with a “Are you Peggy and Patti?” Why yes, we are, and we are a little over the top with giggles and being wowed and being loud about how we are Wowed. . .but that’s just what we do after 2 (maybe 3) drinks. So, yes, we walk into this room, very Indian Elephant Safari, elegant, bamboo, mirrors, and a giant(!) elephant.  And now we are enamored with the Elephant, how can you not be?

We fall in love with JP and Sara immediately.  They say “guess which table we saved for you” – and there is one table right in front of the fireplace with two champagne’s waiting for us.  YAY!!!

The Experience

I order the “Dumbo”, Peggy orders the “Tantor”.  JP starts making drinks.  JP tells us he is from Sunnyside, WA, which is just about 30 min away from Patti’s home in Tri-Cities.  But after living in Barcelona for a year, he met friends who invited him to work for the summer on their boat in Pueblo, CO, where Peggy is living now.  So, we have all kinds of commonality.  We love him, he’s adorable, we share our story.

We order the burrata with the strawberry reduction, which also contains these amazing blackberries, arugula, and fresh toasted bread.  Thinking we needed a little something in our tummies, this was a great choice, fresh, light, and fantastic.

I break the one-and-done rule (shocking by now, right), because they have a “dealers’ choice” option on the menu, in which my new bff JP will create a cocktail for me.  All he knows is I’m a vodka girl.  And this is one of my new favorite all time drinks, that I shall never have again (except JP has promised to message us the recipe), but it’s vodka and lavender, and I am not a lavender person, I find it to be soapy. But this WORKS, so whatever he balanced it with just worked, all around.

The Shakers

I have now decided that come what may, Unlisted is getting a 5-shaker rating from me.  But there is no challenge to gain entry, so I start asking (like interrogating) JP about their process, what happens when they fill up, they don’t take reservations, the lines form outside. . . there is no process except being next in line.  So, I have decided to add a subjective + rating to their service and cocktails, and they now have a 4++ Shaker rating, but deserve so much more. 

And we are sad that we have to leave for our reservations at Deep Dive. I mean we didn’t even get to see the elephant move – because apparently, THE ELEPHANT MOVES!!!

Deep Dive

I’m a little sad and pouty that Peggy made me leave Unlisted. But Deep Dive requires a deposit when you make the reservation. She had ponied up the funds, so we had to go.

Deep Dive is located inside the Amazon spheres – if you’ve never heard of these spheres, you should probably go Google it, it’s a cool concept and worth the trip to see them if you are in Seattle. And if you do, you can take a side trip two streets down and find the famous face-smasher cement wall.  That’s my blood on the building.  Wow, that was a slight detour from our story, so let’s go back to the spheres.

The Entrance

There is a side entrance to the spheres you can enter to get to Deep Dive.  Enter, walk down a sloped hallway, there is a hosts stand (so half shaker).  We are seated at the bar (yay!), where we meet Lauren. And our new friend, Squirrel.

After proclaiming “SQWER-REL”, we are immediately notified by Dan that we are forbidden from quoting Violet Beauregard in this bar, which makes us giggle…good call, Dan.  Although, now in sobriety, I feel Dan needs to apologize for not recognizing we were doing Veruca Salt, not Violet, your turning Violet, Violet (where did I have that drink?  Swordfish Toms?)

The Experience

The theme feels upscale 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, if there is such a thing.  I am reminded of the now closed Lost Spirits Distillery’s submarine room in Las Vegas.  Like, it is upscale and well done, but not in your face cheesy underwater – more coral and old scuba helmet kind of thing. . .well, plus the SQUIRREL.  But Dan informs us that the theme is more earth, water, and sky deep dive thing. . . but it really is feeling underwater to us.

Lauren is sweet as can be, but we figure new-ish, because she has to reference an instruction list to make the drinks. Dan keeps “helping” her, as in guiding in a very mansplaining way.  But Justin Timberlake’s half-brother look-a-like working on the other side of the bar seems awesome. 

But back to drinks, it’s pretty wide variety cocktail menu.  Lauren says the Japanese Breakfast is her favorite, so I go with that, let’s find out more about Lauren through her wheelhouse.  Peggy orders something in a pink kitty cat ceramic mug and is thrilled with this.

The Japanese Breakfast tastes like a liquid ham steak.  And I keep marveling at it, and tell people about it, like EVERYONE. Because it’s clear, and like Violet Beauregard and her roast beef gum, this was a very cool experience for me.  But I can’t say that in this bar, per Dan.

We needed a snack and ordered the tartare, which was amazing.  I am impressed at how good all of the food that we ordered was, everywhere we went, over the course of the evening.  EVERYTHING was good.

The Shakers

It might be a little fuzzy, but even though you aren’t just going to stumble upon this door in the Spheres…there is a sign on it. So half a shaker for hidden. There is a reservation (tough to get!) and a hostess…then that meandering walkway….so another half for entrance. The theme is well done, as are the cocktails and service. The Deep Dive gets four shakers even though it wasn’t among our favorites.

Phocific Standard Time (PST)

Next up was to Uber to Phocific Standard Time (Vietnamese based speakeasy, yes, please!!) only we Uber to the wrong Pho Bac (who knew there was more than one?). Time wasn’t wasted because we did have an amazing French lesson from our driver, Alpha. But we got to the correct Pho Bac only to find out we have a waitlist.

The Entrance

Inside Pho Bac, a full Pho restaurant, there is a set of stairs with just a simple sign reminding you that you need to be 21 or older to go up the stairs.  Besides that, no markings, no signs, just stairs with a beaded curtain at the top.  Once up the stairs there is an iPad, you self-check in and are added to the wait list.

And now we have to side trip: This is where we meet Tanya and Liz, who check-in behind us, recommend this place next door to wait, but it’s a wine bar and we are NOT having a wine moment.  So, we decide to see what else is around, and find Liz and Tanya smoking in a doorway, they recommend this Italian restaurant around the corner, which they inform us is where the Russian hookers hang out.

We are laughing at how absurd this sounds, until we get around the corner and observe a short, sleezy, rich looking Italian man walking out with a tall, thin, dark-haired woman in a super short dress, remarkably high heels, and a parka with a mink lined hood.  We are pretty sure Liz and Tanya know a thing or two.  So, we have cocktails and clams and get notice that our table at PST is ready.

The Experience

Back to PST we go, where we are greeted and sat at a teeny tiny table in the back corner.  I catch the bartenders eye and ask to be upgraded to the bar as soon as a spot opens up.  Peggy doesn’t know what she wants, and probably doesn’t need another drink. But this is research. So I order her the “cooling water” – which turns out to be fantastic and refreshing and has cute little lychee on the toothpick.  I order the “phin-tini”, which is a Vietnamese take on an espresso martini, and I love it. 

We need food, so we order the crab and shrimp dip.  It is gooey, and cheesy, and crab and shrimp filled. There was no skimping on this dip!  And just as it is put down in front of us, we get upgraded to the bar seats.

At the bar we get to talk to the bartender, and his girlfriend the bar back. They are both sweet and adorable, and a cute little couple.  The couple next to us are regulars and make a few recommendations.

On the other side are 4 women who we are sure are going to be annoying. But we quickly bond with them when they have a “f*ck that guy” moment and we join in.  We are telling them about our speakeasy blog and how they need to go to Chicago. Then we find out “f*ck that guy” actually owns a plane! Now we are quite sure she needs to f*ck that guy to get us all on a private jet to Chicago! Ahhhhh fun times, making friends.

OH, and then our night wraps up with the one we were waiting for.  Our night-night close out cocktail, turns out to be “khoa was here #khoawuzhere” – wait for this one…Pho fat washed shot of Jameson with Pho Broth Back.

This has already won best cocktail of the year.  And it’s only night one of our first trip of 2025. I highly doubt that anything will top this.  It’s Jameson with an umami twist, followed by a WARM PHO BROTH BACK!!! 

WARM PHO BROTH BACK, PEGGY!!!!!!

Shut your wh*re mouth now.

The Shakers

So, yes, shaker for entrance, no shaker for challenge, shaker for theme, shaker for drinks, and shaker for service.  We loved PST.

It is time for bed and a Pho-tastic end of day one (yes, Peggy, day two).

Speakeasy Day Two

We packed this day, but seem to have tons of time between reservations, so we aren’t scared, lol.  Much.

We left the hotel a little early so that we could grab a good starting snack at Golden Rooster.

We walked into this Pioneer Square chicken joint, the man at the counter just looks at us and says “the bar’s in the back”. Clearly, we are bringing a look.  Turns out this fried chicken place we had seen on Instagram has a speakeasy in the back!  But can it really be classified as a speakeasy; I wouldn’t go that far!

Golden Rooster

The Entrance

Not that there really is an entrance, but there is a hallway to the side of this walkup counter restaurant.  Hallway leads to a sports bar at the back.  I can’t really in good conscience call this a speakeasy, but they do.

There is a door that leads in from the back alley, which is mostly unmarked, so close to speakeasy-ish from that entrance.

The Experience

We had seen in the IG reel that their chicken is amazing, but it had a side mention that they had Creamy Udon noodles.  So chicken is ordered as a half and half – half plain fried, half saucy – we neglect to realize we need to specify thighs instead of wings, so we end up with wings.  We add on the Creamy Bulgogi Udon Noodles, and they are fantastic!  So Good!! Seriously, these noodles are worth the trip!

Great little place.  Definitely a sports bar, complete with sports team flags and TVs.  There is nothing quiet or reserved about this, but I would definitely hang out here if I lived nearby. 

The Pharmacy

With a full tummy, we walk to our first officially planned speakeasy stop of the night.

The Entrance

Also in Pioneer Square, inside Temple Billiards (a pool hall), it is just down a set of stairs.  Almost completely unmarked, except for a paper sign hung up that says, “the bar is open” and an arrow pointing downstairs. 

The Experience

The website lists it as 1970’s Palm Springs vibe.  It doesn’t quite feel as upscale as I would expect from Palm springs, but it is definitely a 70’s vibe (complete with tacky bronze leaves that our mother had hanging in our house way back when).  Looks more like a middle-class family basement – picture “That 70’s Show) for sure.  But it is super laid back, and comfortable.  Cocktail list is great, I screwed up by not remembering my original intention to order the “doctor’s elixir”, but the cocktails are good, and we are happy.

Until….The birthday party arrives.

Loud, yes, very loud for 4 pm, and dressed to the hilt, far from sober.  We didn’t think it would be too bad until the Birthday Girl in all her leather mini skirt and faux fur coat announced that we were welcome to join them, and we could thank her later.  So, between that and the overwhelming essence of marijuana swirling around, we decide to take a pass, rush the finishing of our cocktail, and move on.

The Shakers

I think we decided on a full 3 shakers for The Pharmacy – definitely Hidden but no Entrance. Great commitment to theme and fantastic drinks. No service – although our bartender was adorable, it is a walk-up counter.

ssn – I’m really glad we squeezed this one in. It came down to The Pharmacy or The Alley (West Seattle) – both were out of the way for us and we had to choose one. The Alley is totally hot right now and gets a lot of coverage. But The Pharmacy came highly recommended by several people we talked to on Night 1 and I think it was a great choice.

Foreign National

**unfortunately, Foreign National closed its doors in July 2025**

Paper Fan Cocktail Company

You know how much Peggy loves an Asian-themed bar!

The Entrance

Above Biang Biang Noodles restaurant is a must try speakeasy.  This was a winner.  You do need reservations, as I was informed by the Biang Biang hostess when she misunderstood what I had said and told me they do not take walk-ins.  Check-in downstairs and they will radio the hostess at the back, walk over to her upon approval and she will lead you up the back stairs.  The stairs open to a dimly lit, second floor room with a small 4-person bar, and seats for maybe 25 people. 

The Experience

Their cocktails are mostly tea infused, with an Asian feel in the ingredients (Yuzu, Baigui, etc.).  There is a menu, but also, the big paper fan’s on the tables also list their drink selections (super cute).  We were lucky enough to be seated at the bar, so yay, we love that.

The head bartender introduced herself, I thought she said her name was Minnie, but who knows, we couldn’t quite hear and didn’t get another chance to ask.  But she walks us through the options, and points out several favorites, and explained the concepts, it was really superb service.  We order, I had a “Bamboo Grove”, Peggy had what was known as one of the favorites “Game of Ming”, and our bartender went to work.

It was amazing to watch.  Three women behind the bar, all working in perfect synchronicity.  I do not think we have seen anything like it.  One pouring into the shaker, while one gets the glass ready, while one prepares the garnish, then the shaker goes to number two to shake, while number one carries on to the next step or next drink, while number three cleans up from the first drink, then number two pours and number one, prepares to serve. It was really cool to watch how the three of them worked so well together, I’d say like a well-oiled machine, but it was more like a ballet, artistic and well-orchestrated.

The man behind us had something with smoking lavender, there was another smoked old-fashioned, just a wide range of creativity in cocktails.

The Shakers

We score Paper Fan Cocktail Company 4.5 shakers. Hidden – yes and entrance – 1/2. You must have a reservation and cannot just walk in by yourself. Theme, drinks and service are all a full shaker.

Needless to say, we loved it!

And the dishes we saw coming out of Biang Biang looked absolutely amazing, and I really want to go back for dinner on our next trip.

Knee High Stocking Company

**Knee High Stocking Company has permanently closed**

And finally, on to our last and most anticipated stop of the night:

Needle and Thread

This hits all the recommended lists when you are looking for where to go for drinks in Seattle.  It is THE place they all say you must hit.  But us?

ssn – The Infatuation had just released their Power Rankings of Seattle Speakeasies and there was still a little buzz about it. Well, Needle & Thread landed the #1 spot…so expectations were high…

The Entrance

It’s located inside Tavern Law and has pretty great entrance for a speakeasy. We absolutely loved Tavern Law.  It’s all wood and classic feeling.  Great service, cocktail list, food list.  We could have hung out there all night.

There is a phone on the wall, you have to pick up the phone and tell them who you are.  If you have a reservation AND your table is ready, they will buzz you in through the door next to the phone (side note: if the door doesn’t open, you have to call them back, as Peggy found out).

Little weird in that they told us our table wasn’t ready and to call back (we were 10 min early).  So we did, we get upstairs, and there are like 3 empty tables. . . so what exactly took 10 minutes to get ready?

The Experience

Ooooh, well, this is where it gets difficult for us.  The room was gorgeous.  A little prohibition feeling, but in a girly way.  Cream colored, lovely lighting, a love seat, a few high-back chairs, pretty bar, it had a great feel to the room.

But the woman who met us at the top of the stairwell?  Well, suffice to say, she was not having a great night.  Or was it us?  Did she just not like us?  Who could not like us?  Right? 

Needle and Thread is that kind of bar where they have no set cocktail list, they ask you what you like and create a drink based around that.

However, grumpy girl had zero interest in us or our likes.  She literally asked my favorite flavors (peach, pineapple, cherry), my choice of liquor (vodka), and anything I don’t like (chilis, cucumber, watermelon).  She had little tolerance for Peggy who had a little fumble in trying to figure out what she liked besides not sweet and being gin based.  No suggestions, no help, just kind of “what do you want”.

She then turns to the table behind us, sits down WITH them, and start the same kind of questions, only for these really annoying lovebirds, she is all about suggestions “do you like sweet, do you like citrus, what about smokey, what about spicy? how about orange? strawberry?. . .” she was totally digging into their psyche.  We were very confused.

We look over, male bartender looks really cool and is pretty just going with the flow.  Female bartender looks pissy, she is not into this night either.  We figure maybe there is some staff drama and try to let it go.

Then the female bartender brings our drinks over to us, and she is perky and cute and descriptive, and absolutely lovely and fun – our determination at this point is that she was just concentrating (or maybe she had seen enough of the other ladies BS, who knows, again it can’t be us, right?).

But I am a little disappointed.  The drink was great.  But it was literally a cherry infused vodka, with a pineapple and peach “wash” – like she just seemed to read the paper and make just that.  There was nothing wow, special, or creative.  On our way out the male bartender was really nice, asked how our night was going, if we liked the cocktails, etc.

The Shakers

So, yes, we wanted to love this place. We wanted the WOW factor. We left slightly disappointed, and hope it was just a bad night for them. It was most likely the overhyped expectation.

Zero for service, but dang that entrance was one of the best we found in Seattle.

ssn – I definitely liked N&T more than Patti did. I loved the interior, the theme, the feel and concept. The only downgrade for service would be 1/2 shaker – I think seating at the bar would have no doubt been a full shaker – the bartenders seemed engaging and I suspect would have been more adept at drawing cocktail inspiration from us. My drink was fabulous but, technique aside, like Patti said, I listed my own ingredients. I had gin, almond, vanilla, passionfruit.

That said, we will go full shakers for Hidden, Entrance, Theme, and Drinks (concept alone). Patti gives no shaker for service, Peggy goes 1/2. We will iron that out in the Official Listing.

Speakeasy Day Zero, The Prequel

When Patti unexpectedly stood me up on Thursday night, what was I supposed to do except soldier on? It is what she would want. We had a highly anticipated 7:30 pm appointment (i.e., reservations) for The Doctor’s Office that I would not miss.

So as long as I was going out, I might as well hit the Founders Club in the Fairmont Olympic. It was close to our hotel, opens at 5:00, and honestly, we weren’t going to spend that money for two of us! I felt obligated. So I jumped on Open Table and booked a seat at the bar for 5:00.

The Founders Club

The Entrance

In true speakeasy style, the entrance is hidden behind a bookcase. If I hadn’t seen this on Instagram, I may not have spotted the span of bookshelves with no seating in front of them (the lobby bar/lounge area full of small seating areas, larger groupings, bookshelves and library tables).

I arrived a few minutes early so I grabbed a seat near the entrance and waited. The instructions were that at 5:00 someone would come out and get me (and others with reservations). Sure enough, the bookcase swung open and the darling hostess came out with her iPad and was immediately accosted by 3 middle-aged (ok, my aged) ladies with fruity drinks from the bar wondering if they could get in without reservations. She assured them that they could but they would have to wait. There were 2 couples waiting and me.

She motioned for me to follow her, I explained that I would need to video the bookcase opening. Either I could film her if she didn’t mind, or she could film me – you all know I dread that! Thankfully, she didn’t mind demonstrating the door. She then led me in to the beautiful Founders Club bar.

The Experience

The Founders Club is beautiful in a Mad Men, private NYC men’s club kind of way. Red leather, rich & regal. Are women allowed in here? I kid…but?

The bartender was friendly and knowledgeable and walked me through the very traditional drink menu. Think traditional with a modern, high-end twist. Unique ingredients but spendy!!

I opted for the “Clover Club”. Gin, cherry blossom vermouth, lemon, blackberry, egg white.

He made my drink and the lovely assistant bartender stepped in to garnish my dried raspberry dust on top as he moved on to the next order. I wish I knew her name because she was amazing. Meticulous. I thought it was just me, turns out she treated everyone’s drink this way, but she garnished like it was the world championships. I’ve never seen anything like it – in an impressive way.

The Founders Club would be the perfect drink-before-dinner stop. Or a pre/post-theater drink. A fabulous experience but you don’t feel the need to sit and spend time.

The Shakers

The Founders Club gets an impressive 4.5 shakers. Full shakers for entrance and hidden, theme and drinks. I’m only going to go half for service. It was good as expected (and the attention to detail was chef’s kiss but I think that counts toward the drink score).

The Doctor’s Office

The Entrance

The Doctor’s Office is on Capitol Hill and I’m sure we could have arranged it into our Saturday night but you take these reservations when you can get them! So the Uber drops me off at the next corner up Olive and I don’t see any immediate signs (this is good!). The street level looks to be fairly abandoned. Boarded up & newspapered windows and doors. One paper sign pointing one direction for deliveries, the other for “Bar” – we’re talking non-descript 8.5″ x 11″ printer paper. A few shops down is an unmarked door BUT there is a white neon sign above it that says “The Doctor’s Office”. Hmmm…I’m conflicted but damn, is it cool?

The Experience

I open the door and the space is immediately comfortable. A 6-seater bar in front of you and 2 small seating areas to either side. Keith greets me but I am a few minutes early and there is only one seat ready. Well, I guess it’s a good thing my sister ditched me. I take the seat at the bar, he gives me a “welcome champagne” and I start looking through the iPad menu.

Shortly after, the couples to each side of me reach the end of their appointment times – these are strictly adhered to. The seated groups leave as well and I am left alone. Keith tells me this is rare and it is a nice chance to talk to him about the bar. He doesn’t like the Speakeasy label. They prefer to be a neighborhood bar that nobody knows about. Speakeasy is too trendy, pretentious and gimmicky.

This place is fantastic – neighborhood bar nails it. Comfortable, friendly, a je ne sais quoi. But the spirits selection is unique, rare and impressive. The cocktails are inventive.

Soon a couple joins us at the bar and we all chat for quite a while. We compared our drinks, told Washington & Colorado stories, compared travels, and local recommendations. Super enjoyable. My drinks were both incredible, among the best of the weekend – “Long Story Short” with gin, passion fruit – I am NOT full of surprises; and “Bacon & Pandan Old Fashioned”.

The Shakers

I drove Patti past The Doctor’s Office the next day to confirm that it is truly obscured (despite the neon). So we agree on the full shaker. No entrance. But definitely full shakers for the other three categories equaling a total of four.

Future Trips

We did not make it to every speakeasy that we wanted, so for future trips, we will hit up:

• The Alley in West Seattle

If you have other recommendations, let us know!

Previous Trips

• Bathtub Gin & Co
• Inside Passage

We hit Bathtub Gin and Inside Passage on previous trips, read about them here plus a bonus Skein & Tipple if you happen to be on Whidbey Island.

Seattle Speakeasy Conclusion

To wrap it up, what did we learn?

Seattle has a ton of great speakeasies, and something for everyone as far as tastes and vibes.  They are spread out and you can find one in many neighborhoods.  The people in Seattle are fantastic.  You definitely want to get lots of Asian food and seafood (or Asian seafood).

ssn – I feel like the scoring in Seattle was high – a lot of 4 and 4.5 shakers compared to other cities. Did we score easier? Were they more hidden? More committed to theme? Maybe all of the above. On to the next city to compare!

But you absolutely need to try a Pho washed Jameson with a Hot Pho Broth Back!

Other Speakeasy Guides

• Las Vegas
• Austin
• Boston
• San Diego
• Chicago
• Denver
• Kansas City
• Colorado (outside of Denver)
• Paris
• London

tl;dr: If you want to jump to our Complete List of US Speakeasies, Click here

Starting off with The Best Kind of Speakeasy on the Planet

Bold statement, I know, and why is that?  Because Sushi Suite is a sushi speakeasy, and easily one of the best culinary experiences we have had. In the Lincoln Hotel in Lincoln Park, Sushi Suite has 60-minute seatings, for 6 people at a time.  So, it has a very exclusive, intimate feel to it.  It is 17 different sushi courses, with the “optional” sake flight add on.

Sister Side Note (ssn) – I’m not sure we understand the meaning of “optional” when it comes to food, drinks, or anything remotely upgrade-y, luxurious.

You enter through an unmarked red-framed hotel room door for Suite 202 on the second floor. You are shown to the bar to wait.  The bar has cool, inventive cocktails with a Japanese flair to them (and some smoke if you order right).  Once the earlier seating clears, you and your 4 new friends are escorted to the sushi bar and introduced to your chef. He then prepares a line up of amazing, fresh Nigiri with slight twists for each selection of fish.  They were amazing! We kept declaring each one our new favorite.

It was our sushi chef’s birthday so were treated to some extra celebratory Sake shots in addition to the 4 amazing sakes that were served with our flight. At the end we were offered an add-on (again, “optional”) A5 Wagyu topped with caviar, and it was an amazing finish to an incredible experience. 

Our dinner companions were all local and all agreed on a few spots we needed to add to our already full list. But who are we to pass up recommendations from locals.  We gladly shifted our schedule slightly, but first we had to get south to the Loop.

The Milk Room (The Loop)

Unfortunately, the Milk Room closed in February 2025.

The Green Door/The Drifter (River North)

The Green Door Tavern is supposedly haunted.  Obviously, we were in for that.  It is also just two doors down from Mr. Beef (of The Bear fame), so obligatory photo op.  One of the only remaining wooden structures after the Great Chicago Fire (after the fire, wooden structures were forbidden).  The building has a slight lean to it, having settled into its frame in the post-fire rush to build (1872, if you’re not feeling like Googling).

In the times of Prohibition, the presence of a green door to an establishment indicated the location of a speakeasy.  After entering, go all the way through to the back, find the staircase, at the bottom of the staircase find the speakeasy.  In an effort to maintain the speakeasy vibe, we aren’t telling you where it is, but we did walk right by it our first time down the hallway. 

We got in without a reservation, but don’t bank on that.  There is a cover charge ($7), because there is also a burlesque show!  But first, let’s talk cocktails.  They have a rotating list of cocktails; they give out tarot cards that the cocktail is based on.  Each card is different and lists the name and ingredients on the cocktail.  Peggy had the Cabana Boy Blues on the Three of Swords, I had the Duggan’s Demise on The Fool.  I won because mine came with a fudge stripe cookie (once, again, foiled by gluten in a cocktail, but survived).

Then there was a burlesque show.  Fun vibe, just one performance then a break for 30 minutes until the next performance.  But the whole vibe was fun, and we are glad we fit this one in.

Speakeasy Fairy Godmothers

ssn – on our way out, as we were heading upstairs, we ran into a cute boy who looked lost. He heard there was a speakeasy but couldn’t find it. We took it upon ourselves to help. We imparted our knowledge upon him and gave ourselves the new titles of Speakeasy Fairy Godmothers. He wanted us to come up and meet his friends. They were there for a bachelor party weekend but there were only 3 of them; sweet, very young and wanted us to keep in touch throughout the weekend to let them know how the other bars turned out. Too cute.

Still perplexed as to how we were so tipsy, we did have to recall that we had (multiple) sake shots with our sake flight.  This seemed like a good time to test our new TikTok anti-hangover remedy and prepare for the next night!

ssn – Patti was perplexed because she must have forgotten a stop at the Sparrow, which I have still mistakenly been calling the Swallow (hahaha) before going back to the hotel. This was another recommendation from the Sushi friends and echoed by the bartender at Milk Room. It was beautiful and we had one final cocktail although it was a bit hazy!

Dorian’s (Wicker Park)

Dorian’s fronts as a record store.  Just inside, look for the “Listening Booth” sign, show the cashier your ID, and into the back room you go.

We absolutely loved the stage and wished we were there for a show, but also the walls were stacked with shelves upon shelves of Vinyl.  It was super cool.  A hint of dive bar, but also the feel like you’d just discovered some underground classic club. The cocktail list is short, but something for everyone.  A little ‘Mr. Demeanor’ and a ‘Big Papa’, with a little snack of labneh and pita chips and we were sad to already be leaving as their drink special was the ‘Gayspresso’ and a Pride Night followed.

A reservation at Kings Cup and a Tarot card reading were the highlight in between Dorian’s and Gatsby, but that will be discussed in our day drinking blog post (coming soon).

Gatsby (Lincoln Park)

This, I have to say, got incredibly high marks from us.  Although there is a sign for The Gatsby out on the street, it is hidden inside the Bourgeois Pig cafe. When you check in at the front desk, the most adorable woman greets you and gives you a piece of paper with riddle to solve and send you upstairs to figure out how to gain entrance based on the riddle.  Best entrance of our entire trip.

So, up the stairs we go.  Long hallway, a little room with a bookcase, and we solved the riddle pretty quickly (won’t tell you what it was, but it’s clever), a little light goes off inside the bar and were let into the speakeasy.

And it was perfect inside.  The theme was well executed with a 1920’s feel to the décor without being the dark, drabness that some speakeasies can feel like.  Interesting artwork, a big wooden bar as you walk in, and then a series of rooms wrapping around the layout for a cozier feel, plus a big library room towards the back.

They were super busy, and service was slow, but they were great about it.  Apologies from Nora for the delay, she was awesome, they were friendly and did their best to cover a bar full of people while they were shorthanded.

Drinks were all Alice in Wonderland themed. All 5 of them.  I had the ‘Drink Me’, which came with a little “drink me” tag hanging out of the glass. Peggy had the ‘Cheshire Grin’ which had a Cheshire cat style stripe through the foam and come to find out the base was Malort, that disgusting Chicago local favorite spirit – and it was delicious.

A Little Chicago-style Sisbehaving

Six Drinks into the night and the fun escalated.

When we realized that the alley where John Dillinger was shot was only 2 blocks away from Gatsby.  Peggy needed to see it. And apparently, recreate it.

We decided we needed late night sushi, because that’s just who we are.  Late night sushi is second only to late night Korean BBQ, and there was an Izakaya back up the road near King’s Cup.

And that’s when the magic happened.  The homeless guy hanging outside the liquor store offered to buy our panties.

There’s a first time for everything.

And in hindsight, we should have found out what the starting bid was, I mean what if he wasn’t actually homeless and was simply an eccentric billionaire who was testing us.  He could have been Peggy’s new sugar daddy.

But I guess now we will never know.

The Alderman (Pilsen)

I feel like I keep listing everything as our favorite. But our time at The Alderman was absolutely fantastic.

First the entrance: Inside the Pilsen Yards, which is a great Mexican restaurant with a big outdoor patio in the Pilsen neighborhood. There is a door simply marked The Alderman (in not so simple neon).  So, while not exactly hidden, you must know it’s there to know to go in.

The Alderman is a lot more upscale than the outside lets on.  It has a dark and masculine feel, with seating for only 16 and a well-thought-out drink menu curated by the bartenders themselves with a mix of weird, exotic, and classic ingredients.

AND there was a welcome drink. And you know we are a sucker for a welcome drink.

For us, what made it so outstanding was the service.  Our reservations were for bar seating (our preference), where we were greeted by bartenders Matt and Sven. We found out it was Matt’s last day at The Alderman.  We had great conversation, got to ask lots of questions about the bar and the drinks, did group shots with Matt and Sven, and listened to Matt’s plans for the future.  It was like we were regulars from the moment we walked in the door. This was right before our Stevie Nicks/Billy Joel concert, and they were genuinely excited for us. 

The Alderman – The Drinks

They have a fantastic selection of alcohol and we were lucky to try some barrel-aged rare rum, and an amazing whiskey selected by the bartenders, and hear Matt’s wealth of knowledge (as he was the one who had picked out these selections for the bar).

We hope Matt is doing well in school, and that his replacement fell right into the big shoes he had to fill (and no, I don’t want to name him, just in case he didn’t last the night, such a cute little boy, nice but young and inexperienced).

ssn – The Alderman was my favorite of the trip. In honor of our concert, Sven asked, “If Billy Joel wanted a shot, what would he want?”, and proceeded to create something for us. So fun!

The Blind Barber (Fulton Market)

Barber shop by day, speakeasy by night.  This was a last-minute squeeze-in while we were waiting for our later reservations.  Luckily it was close by in Fulton Market.

It’s an actual working barber shop in the front.  The receptionist quickly identified that we were not there for a cut or shave and opened the unmarked door in the back wall, not hidden but looks like it should be an office door or janitor’s closet. Little hallway opens up to a fantastically almost 70’s vibe speakeasy.  Wood paneling, long booths along the wall, wood bar, dark moody. As Peggy said it’s almost like they tried to do Tiki, but gave up and settled for 70’s.  But not Good Night, John Boy tacky, disco 70’s, more your parents rumpus room 70’s. But all in a good way. Oh, and a DJ booth in the back, so giving hip night life feelings.

Great drink menu, couple of locals hanging out, espresso martini “thinking shots” and a little conversation with the bartender.  It was a quick hit, you definitely want to stop in for a cocktail, and to check the box on your speakeasy tour.

ssn – “Thinking shots” is new term we have coined. When you can’t choose from the menu, you have a little shot to tide you over and get the decision process moving. Not sure at what point we named it, but it stuck.

The Booze Box (Fulton Market)

And then a happy little accident occurred!  We were going to check out Gin Alley in Fulton Market, because the pictures looked so cute.  We walk by an alley and spot a lighted red arrow pointing towards a doorway. 

YAY, Surprise hidden bar signal.  They only had a sign on the door with hours, but nothing else saying anything about what it was.  We had to kill a little time before opening, but we were right there when they did.

Turns out Sushi Dokku on the corner has a little bar downstairs.  We discovered the hidden staircase, but others used the restaurant entrance.  So more of a “hidden bar” than a true speakeasy. Very Japanese feel, obviously, given the upstairs sushi bar, and you know my Japonessa sister was loving it. 

It was dark, there were big shelves over the bar filled with Japanese labels, red paper lanterns, and round booths lining the back wall.  We lucked into a bar seat where I had probably my favorite drink of the entire trip, ‘The Murasaki’:  Rum, egg whites, lime, and ube syrup. I have zero idea what Peggy had because I was wrapped up in my own little foamy, purply world.

We were very sad that we were still full from late lunch at Au Cheval, so no food was ordered and that was a complete failure for us.

ssn – she’s right, I love my Asian bars and this was such a fun find. We found it without even trying and didn’t realize until writing this post that it was on our list all along.

The Office

Hidden through a back hallway and down a staircase, The Office sits below The Aviary, a restaurant concept of the Alinea Group (Grant Achatz for your food nerds).  The Aviary looked amazing, their drinks looked fun and amazing, and the food made us want to rethink walking down that hallway.

But we did.

Dark elegance behind a locked door, interesting artwork, Persian style rugs, thoughtful knick-knacks, and walls and cabinets full of dusty bottles with plain tags listing the name, year, and price. 

Just about 6 bar seats at a small bar, and then a room full of sitting areas with couches, love seats, old parlor chairs.  At the bar we are handed a thick, leather-bound book full of insanely old alcohols, with old, like over a century old, spirits, with full descriptions and background of the bottle, and a whole lot of expensive prices.  And suddenly we become very aware of our limited means in this place. 

ssn – Did anyone else just hear Ron Burgundy enter the conversation?  “I’m very important. I have many leather-bound books and my apartment smells of rich mahogany.”

However, the bartender will make you anything you wish, or you can tell him your likes and dislikes and he will curate a cocktail for you.

The Office – The Drinks

I had a peach cocktail that utilized “Good Vodka”, as in that’s the brand name of it.  A friend of the bartender started a distillery using discarded coffee fruit, so we even got a really cool story to go with it.  The bartender did engage us with the background that the owners actually seek out vintage bottles of alcohol at auctions around the country, looking for old, unique, and not seen in decades bottles found in basements and broken down sheds.

Our pre-paid reservation came with a single bite appetizer, we chose the Black Truffle Explosion. This one absolutely my best bite of the year (for the first 6 months, that is).  I’m not even sure how to explain this ravioli topped with black truffle and parmesan, when you bite into it the ravioli breaks open and fills your mouth with the black truffle juice and butter – absolutely amazing (for more information on this, see the Grant Achatz “Chef’s Table”, Season 2, Episode 1).

We hung out long enough to order a second round of drinks, when the chef from The Aviary came down to check with the bartenders about limited orders for his new truffle grilled cheese, and we were in for trying that. 

The Office is very upscale, so if that is your style The Office is for you.  It is definitely not one of those loud, outlandish bars, the simplicity and elegance speaks for itself, but bring a full wallet, as I said the specialties can get a little spendy (there are whiskeys that go for $625 an ounce) and there might be something exquisite you need to try.

The Office served as the perfect ending to our speakeasy tour of Chicago.

Other Chicago Speakeasy recommendations

ssn – Let me endnote this post by telling you about the immense amount of research that went into this trip. Since Chicago is basically home of the Speakeasy, the options were staggering. We started with a list of more than one full hand-written page, compiled from various articles with their rankings:
Thrillist, How to Get Into Chicago’s Best Speakeasies and Secret Bars
Time Out, The Best Chicago Speakeasy Bars to Discover
The Infatuation, 10 Great Hidden Bars & Speakeasies in Chicago
and added from there from things we saw on social media.

We added every one to our Google Map, researched each one, and had to narrow them down to the most important and intriguing, by neighborhood, by opening days and hours. Tough job but somebody had to do it. Also, we recommend reservations at all of these (where available)

Here are a few that we just could not get to (yet!) that were high on our list: Nine Bar (Chinatown), The Library at Gilt Bar (River North), The Bamboo Room (inside Three Dots & a Dash)(River North), Valedor (Wicker Park), Untitled Supper Club (River North). And of course, everyone’s social media favorite is the Chicago Magic Lounge (where you enter through the Laundromat), we probably won’t be covering that – but never say never!

More Speakeasy Guides

• Our Ultimate List & Ratings of American Speakeasies
• Las Vegas
• Austin
• Denver
• Seattle
• Kansas City