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 sometimes).

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
• Austin
• Chicago
• Denver
• Seattle
• Kansas City
• Paris
• London

**It is important to note that the rating is not an indication of how much we enjoyed each speakeasy. Some of our favorite speakeasies did not score as highly as some that we did not love**

Hit us in the comments with recommendations or if you think we got something wrong!

Objective Speakeasy Scoring Method

The official Sisbehaving Speakeasy Ratings are based on a 5-Shaker scale. One Shaker is earned for each of the following categories:

• Secret – Is it secret, hidden, or hard to find? This means there are no obvious indicators to the average person walking by.
• Entrance – Can you just walk in? Is there something you have to do to gain entrance? A password, a lock, a task, something unique that sets it apart. This one got a little inconsistent so we decided that a task/action is worth a full shaker, a check-in/host that has to allow you in equals half, just a walk in is worth zero (even with a reservation).
• Theme – Is there a clear theme and is there a full commitment to that theme? From the name to decor to the drinks.
• Cocktails – Are the drinks unique, interesting, fantastic or otherwise memorable? Are they connected to the the theme?
• Service – Does the service standout? Is it outstanding and a step above the ordinary? This was the most subjective category because we like to sit at the bar and so better service/interaction is more evident, leading to better scores (potentially). But…if you don’t get it, this can also be an easier negative. Also, keep in mind that service is a point in time (or two).

Table of Contents (In case you want to skip ahead)

If we have a blog post about a city, we’ve linked that in the header; if not, we have tried to provide photos.

Las Vegas – link to the blog

Here Kitty Kitty

Here Kitty Kitty scores a shaker in each category. The entrance hides behind a bookcase inside a food court restaurant in Resorts World, you would never know it is there unless you were looking for it. It used to be that you had to say “Here kitty, kitty” to the hostess, but now you can just tell them you have a reservation and they let you in. They committed fully to the Asian back alley bar theme through their drink selection and immersive decor. The bartenders are amazing in their knowledge and skill level. Definitely a full package speakeasy.

The Laundry Room

Downtown, inside The Commonwealth is an old school speakeasy that actually used to be a true speakeasy inside a laundry facility. The entrance is completely hidden in a pop out door down the back hallway, and you will not gain entrance without a reservation and escort from the hostess. The inside is prohibition-era themed, limited seating, no loud talking or PDA allowed, and no picture/video taking. The bartenders will create drinks for you based on your personal preferences. It is very low-key and committed to the 1920’s vibe and intent of the original prohibition speakeasy. The Laundry Room is the gold standard in Las Vegas, lending an air of exclusivity, and scores all 5 shakers.

The Lock

The entrance is hidden, you have to pick up the phone to call the ‘banker’ then solve a puzzle code to gain entrance. We love a little challenge rather than just an open door. The bartender was great, and we loved filling out the little questionnaire that helped him create your own cocktail (this Scorpio loves the beach based cocktail.) We did love the VIP lounge hidden inside the speakeasy with the moving eye in the giant wall painting. The small, interior entrance is fun and full of safes, committed to the “lock” theme but marked it down 1/2 of a shaker for once you are inside, like yea, it’s pretty and a nice bar, but no real theme.

Mas Por Favor

Mas Por Favor was a fun experience. Mexican themed, with a hint of drug cartel, but in a good way if you can get that. The whole entrance is fun, as you walk through a hidden hallway with skeletons and fake cocaine bricks (well, we assume they were fake?). The giant Frieda Kahlo mural, Catholic prayer candles, and themed cocktails (like lines of powdered sugar on cardboard as a “party favor”). They hit the high as a speakeasy.

Our only mark down (and it was only 1/2) and critique was a lack of that extra service. It was friendly and attentive enough, but If they had taken a couple of minutes to be engaging, they would be sitting at the top of this list.

The Vault

The Vault receives a strong 4.5 shakers – scoring in all categories except a half shaker entrance (just a host). The entrance is on the floor of the Bellagio casino floor and is not easy to find. Once you find the brown door with gold logo and handle, you simply check in with the hostess. The Vault is definitely the most upscale speakeasy – the theme, the menu, and the service are all exceptional. Where else can you get a $50 cocktail and fully believe it is worth it? One of our best experiences of the year. The Vault won Patti’s Best Speakeasy of 2024

Ski Lodge

The Ski Lodge, inside Cosmopolitan Hotel, is one of our favorites (it won Peggy’s Best Speakeasy of 2024 on our year). The 4-shaker score comes from a score in each category except Entrance (you just open the door). Next to Superfrico at the Cosmopolitan there is an unassuming door.  Plain except for a little gold skier.  No sign, no fanfare, just a simple door. Once inside, the theme is on point! The apres ski vibe is perfection – technically based on Bar-Gyu in Hokkaido, Japan – but we would swear we were slope-side in Colorado. The drinks continue the theme (they have a shot-ski!) and the service was fantastic.

Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails

One of the Vegas favorites, and for good reason. Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails is just a good time. It only scores 3.5 shakers but not because we don’t love it. But it is far from a Secret – there are signs out front and a velvet rope marking the waiting line. There is a cute, sliding “Speakeasy peephole” in the janitor’s closet from behind which the bouncer will determine if you are worthy to enter (so one full shaker for Entrance).

The Theme is sort of private club-y with a great stage that has karaoke or a band (sometimes a famous one) but the drinks are predominately whiskey based (so we took 1/2 point off). We really enjoyed the drinks but keep in mind that they are kind of limited in creativity, although you can get the standard bar choices. Service was excellent.

Ghost Donkey

One of our all time favorites, Ghost Donkey is inside the food court on the second floor of the Cosmopolitan. There are a few other Ghost Donkeys in existence (We have hit Denver and Auckland, but not NYC, Chicago, Omaha or Phoenix) and they were not speakeasies at all, however, this is Vegas. In the food court, at the back is an exit door with a just a donkey on it.

The cool part is that the door is soundproof, so you don’t even realize anything is behind it until you open it and are hit with pink lights and music. And it is fantastic. So, an easy first bathtub for Secret but none for entrance. The service was amazing earning a shaker. The theme gets an easy shaker – tequila, pink party, fiesta and pinata fun. Ghost Donkey was knocked down half a shaker on the limited creative cocktails, but we still love it there and it is a great place to be for fun and uplifting vibes.

The Underground

Inside the Mob Museum in downtown Vegas, this was a tough one to score. From outside, the entrance is hidden down a basement staircase that leads to a door with a sliding peephole. The door is usually guarded and a password is required. But from the inside, it’s no secret, you just follow the signs. There is no challenge to get in. However, being the Mob Museum, the commitment to theme was undeniable. It is full prohibition mobster theme.

The service was just ok, not outstanding, but they do make great cocktails. The cocktails are themed – to the point that my drink was served in a mini bathtub, and they have one that is hidden inside a book. So they are committed to carrying the theme throughout. Not a bad experience, we had a great time. Like we said, tough to score, so we only went 1/2 shaker each on secret and entrance (depending on how you enter), full shakers for theme and drinks, half for service.

Easy’s Cocktail Lounge

The signs all over the Aria, it’s not secret. There is an entrance, a bouncer that you have to approach, and he has to lead you down a hallway and enter the secret number to the locked door. We did love the jazz bar, small tables, velvety vibe to Easy’s. The drinks were amazing, and we didn’t even get into the really creative ones!

However, the service was not good. The three people behind the bar clearly were not happy with each other. But the one guy in charge was really into impressing the people at the other end of the bar, clearly they were important, we were deemed not so. Which is too bad, because they had an amazing trio performing jazz-y pop hits, and the place had a great LaLaLand feel to it. And you do get a donut when you leave! So three shakers for entrance, theme and drinks.

Pier 17 Yacht Club

The Yacht Club was a hard one for us. We wanted to love it to pieces. Had we been going to the show, Absinth, (go see the show!) we may have liked it better. But the show had just started and the place was empty. So, anyway, on to ranking. Secret, no, entrance, meh, kind of. It’s inside the Green Fairy Garden, which is their outside bar and super cute. Tucked off in the corner is a hostess podium to check in for the speakeasy, so no, not hidden, no challenge to get in, just a reservation needed so we are going with half a shaker.

The theme was good, you walk up a bamboo ramp to a small room with a yacht club like bar area, dark wood and sailor pictures and decor. Drinks were good, nothing wrong with them. On theme, but definitely geared towards those going to the show (there is a show entrance inside the bar that is outside (yes, inside, outside, inside, outside). The inside is small-ish, with bar and rail seating. It was very Gilligan’s Island. You can take the other door to the cute outside bar, which is decorated with trailer park style lawn decor.

It seems like it would be super fun if you were going with a group of friends to pre-func. But we were not, so we were underwhelmed.

Captain’s Quarters

This score is based on our experience at the former Mike Morey’s Sip N Tip which was inside The Downtown Bar. It has closed. The White Whale has opened in the Downtown Bar space and behind the curtain is now The Captain’s Quarters. We have not been but suspect they may have earned an additional shaker for drinks as they now custom create cocktails for each customer. We loved Mike Morey’s and are excited to try Captain’s Quarters!

The entrance is a bit more hidden since the sign is now gone – still down the back alley to a black door with a doorbell. Wait for someone to answer and let you in so one shaker there. Seems to be a nautical theme so our unofficial score appears to be approaching 4.5 shakers but we will reserve the final score for when we visit in person!

Austin – link to the blog

Red Headed Stepchild

Austin’s most hyped speakeasy. We assumed it was overrated but it really was everything we hoped. This is probably the hardest hidden bar to get into – it requires a door code which must be obtained by someone who has it. Usually someone else in the industry but good luck trying to find it!

The Red Headed Stepchild, disguised as Floppy Disk Repair gets all the shakers – it is hidden, you need the code to get in, the horror theme is on-point, the drinks are cleverly named and unique, and service was fantastic.

Here Nor There

Here Nor There is damn near perfection. Hidden and Entry Task are both a big check. Reservations are required and must be requested through their app. You’ll receive a text with the code to an unmarked gate on Brazos Street between 6th & 7th. Once inside and downstairs, the incredibly beautiful interior is dark, upholstered in velvety luxury, mood lighting and huge vines along the walls. The theme celebrates endangered and indigenous cultures with an inventive cocktail menu. Service was on point with 2 servers to ensure we had everything we could want.

Midnight Cowboy

Midnight Cowboy is our third 5-shaker in Austin. This place feels completely authentic – originally a brothel disguised as a massage parlor – the decor and atmosphere still honor that era. It is inside a completely obscure, unmarked door on the Dirty 6th. To enter, choose the correct button on the small doorbell directory.

The cocktail menu rotates with super interesting theme-based cocktails, and service was fantastic.

The Powder Room

We are actually giving the Powder Room 4.5+ Shakers. The plus comes from the exceptional hospitality of Paul, the Operations Manager. Shakers were awarded for Hidden (enter through the kitchen doors at a working sandwich shop), 1/2 for entrance (no task, but you need reservations and must turn your phone in at the desk), theme – think high-end Miami Vice, beautiful cocktails, and the incredible service. We highly recommend Powder Room.

Watertrade

We loved Watertrade so much! I know we always say that but it is true!

Hidden up an unmarked set of stairs in the courtyard of The South Congress Hotel, you will find this small, intimate Japanese bar attached to the 12-seat Omakase restaurant, Otoko. Watertrade is stunning! The room is warmly lit with a polished, modern wooden bar and extensive Japanese whiskey and sake collections. It is a truly a beautiful space.

Watertrade landed shakers in all categories except entrance, which was deducted .5 because there is no task other than checking in with the hostess.

Kinfolk Lounge & Library

With 4.5 shakers, the only deduction came from the lack of Entry Task. We are trying to keep consistency with this scoring – because you must check in with the host and be shown to the stairway, we award 1/2 shaker.

Kinfolk Lounge & Library was one of our favorite stops of the trip. It is sufficiently hidden inside Moonshine Grill (although there is a sign out front, it doesn’t indicate what “Kinfolk” is).

This small space is gorgeous – a tiny well-stocked bar and intimate seating at the front of the room and the “Library” in a second room. The Library has a built-into-a-cave feel with white stone walls behind their impressive collection of spirits lining the walls. The room is bright and contains only a large community table. The community table really set Kinfolk apart. It was so lively and right up our alley to have other people to interact with.

Their menu is laid out like a “Family Tree” of cocktails and was brilliant. Service was impeccable!

Trona

Trona was so close to a 5-shaker sweep! You know we are suckers for an alley entrance…so this is off to a good start. Down a back alley in East Austin, there is a huge artsy steel door with a welded lightning belt and a speakeasy peephole. You must provide a password (that was provided via text earlier in the day) before being led down a VERY long hallway to a gorgeous, vibey lounge. Normally this would be 2 shakers for Hidden and Entrance Task but there is a sign on the street-side directing you to the alley (so to be consistent, we have to deduct 1/2 shaker – even though we don’t want to because the entrance is so outstanding).

The design is Oaxacan with a Oaxacan-Japanese cocktail program. The cocktails are top-tier as is the service. So full shakers for theme, cocktails and service.

Eden Cocktail Room

Eden Cocktail Room is (again) down an alley. Austin loves its alleys! There is 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 inside is small and comfortable with low, tin ceilings and a combination of brick walls and dark green paneling. The cocktail program is unique and well-thought out. Because we sat at the bar, we had fantastic service with a lot of conversation and interaction with the bartender. So shakers for theme, cocktails and service.

Milonga Room

The Treasury

The Treasury is very well hidden behind the huge back patio at Shangri-La (a cool, divey bar that was potentially more fun than the Treasury). So one shaker for Hidden. Once you find the door, you must use the intercom to gain entrance, then down the stairs and a hallway with deposit boxes. The intercom gets 1/2 shaker.

Once inside, the Treasury theme is very well done. In fact the bathroom doors are labeled “Deposits”. Pretty cute. Drinks were good and continued the theme so shakers for theme and cocktails. Service was just ok and only getting 1/2 shaker.

Garage

The Garage is inside…wait for it…a parking garage! The entry is hidden up a pedestrian ramp (although the big “Cocktails” on the outside wall of the garage could have been a giveaway. No task to get in. But this is a beautiful bar! Candles, subway tiles, elegant seating and lighting. Drinks are on-theme with motor based names. Service on our particular visit only scored 1/2 shaker (at the bar), but this was so highly recommended by others in the service industry that maybe we hit a bad night. So shakers for hidden, theme, drinks, and a half for service.

Firehouse Lounge

We hit this one early since it opened at noon. The entrance is behind a bookcase inside Firehouse Hostel although there is some signage that gives it away, so we are only giving 1/2 shaker for hidden but the bookcase entrance gets the full shaker. Once inside, the room is dark with red walls and a disco ball. But it is comfortable and chill, not weird, we swear! The drinks were solid as was service.

Small Victory

We actually had a little trouble finding Small Victory so for sure getting the shaker for hidden. Look for the red gate/door with a neon “bar” above it. I know, I know…seems kind of obvious. But maybe it was because it was our final stop, or maybe it is truly obscure but we missed it! No task and no real theme, but the bar is beautiful and inviting so we are giving 1/2. The cocktail program seems fantastic, and you can go off-menu which we love.

Bar Hacienda

The Case Room (Lockhart)

The Cloak Room

Chicago – link to the blog

The Office

The Office is located below The Aviary cocktail lounge. It was created by Chef Grant Achatz and Nick Kokonas and we had high hopes because: Grant Achatz!!! You do need to check in at the hostess stand and you do need a reservation. The entrance is secret. The hostess guides you down a back hall and down a staircase to a locked door, so full shakers for both. Please take note, the door is locked, if you are inside and have to visit the little mobsters room, you will need to take a key with you!

Anyway, quiet, elegant, and definitely prohibition themed. It is well done and upscale. There are a few intimate seating groups and a small bar. They specialize in old (and I mean OLD) alcohols bought at estate sales. It is definitely niche to those with exquisite, upscale taste. The ordering book is thick and contains descriptions of where bottles were found or bought. Choose something interesting or the bartender can create something. The bartender had amazing knowledge and was happy to talk to us about it all.

THEN the chef came down and talked to us about the daily specials at the restaurant, and holy cow, we were blown away!! You absolutely must have the truffle explosion if you go (included with the pre-paid reservation). Watch the Chef’s Table episode on Grant to see why, it was one of the best bites of my life.

Contrary to the lower score speakeasies that we absolutely love, although this has a perfect score – and an absolute “must try” experience – we probably don’t need to go back. It is much to fancy for us, we just do not have that level of sophistication.

Gatsby

Gatsby is definitely worth the stop, and scored high on our scale. It would be a secret entrance if they hadn’t put a sandwich board out front with an arrow (so we only deducted half). Aside from that, hidden upstairs in The Bourgeois Pig Cafe with no other markings. There was a challenge to get in, so YAY!!! The hostess hands you a riddle and sends you up a staircase to solve it in order to gain entrance. It wasn’t too hard, but totally fun enough for us.

It has a great vibe to the place, the drinks were all Alice in Wonderland themed and were carried out very well. They were busy, and service was slow, but they acknowledged that and apologized. That’s all it takes to win us over for service! They were very nice and fun. The place is set up like a drawing room with separate smaller rooms off to the side, including a library room.

Dorian’s

In Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood, Dorian’s fronts as a record store. Once inside, look for the listening booth sign, show your ID and head to the bar in the back. The interior space is hip & funky. Shelves upon shelves of vinyl, a stage behind the bar.

The cocktail list is short, but something for everyone.  A little ‘Mr. Demeanor’ and a ‘Big Papa’. We wish we could have been there for a show – you just know this is a good time. But we loved the vibe anyway. Dorian’s racked up full shakers for secret, theme, and drinks, half shakers for entrance and service.

Milk Room

**sadly, The Milk Room closed its doors on February 28, 2025**

The Alderman

Another favorite! This is not-so-hidden inside Pilsen Yards, there is a neon sign above the door that says “The Alderman”. We had reservations so we checked in with the hostess and she let us through the door. We aren’t sure if we could have just walked in, it didn’t appear that you should so we are giving it a half shaker here.

The lounge itself was dark with a masculine feeling but sexy. There are 16 table seats and a small bar, where we sat (of course!). With a name like Alderman, the theme makes sense so we are counting it for a shaker. They have 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. We would give it a shaker+ for service if that was a thing. The bartenders were chatty and true artisans. We were treated to a few tastes and creations. It was an exceptional experience.

Blind Barber

The Blind Barber is hidden behind a completely unmarked door inside a working barbershop. The receptionist quickly identified that we were not there for a cut or shave and opened the unmarked door. A little hallway opens up to a fantastically almost 70’s vibe speakeasy.  Wood paneling, long booths along the wall, wood bar, dark moody. There were a few nods to tiki, but it’s like they gave up and settled for 70’s. But all in a good way. Like the friend’s basement you wanted to hangout in kind of cool. So keeping count, we’ve got shakers for Secret and theme, only half for entrance.

They had a great drink menu, great drink specials, a long list of shots (we appreciate that) – this seemed very on brand but nothing special so half shaker. The service was attentive but nothing memorable so we are going with half shaker. Although the other patrons at the bar invited us to come back after whatever reservations we were running off to. It was a very inviting hangout.

Violet Hour

Unfortunately, the Violet Hour closed its doors June 2025.

The Drifter

The Drifter gets a shaker off the bat for Secret. It is downstairs inside The Green Door bar. We actually walked past it the first time so kudos! No task or host, just walk in and pay the cover charge. We are counting this as themed for having an authentic 1920’s speakeasy feel. There is a small stage with a burlesque show – in between live acts, they have old black & white films.

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. We don’t have any notes on service – not saying it wasn’t good but just not handing out any shakers on this one.

The Booze Box

In the Fulton Market neighborhood, we walked by an alley and spotted a 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 followed the staircase down to the Booze Box. We are easily scoring this a shaker for Secret No entrance however. Turns out others used the restaurant entrance but we didn’t come in that way and cannot comment on whether it is hidden or not.

It’s no surprise that it has a very Japanese feel, given the upstairs sushi bar. 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 – a beautiful purple rum & ube cocktail. The other drinks were equally as interesting and on theme. The service was not so memorable so we are not awarding any shakers.

Denver – link to the blog

Williams & Graham

Our Denver favorite. Williams & Graham is disguised as a corner book store. Once inside, you check in with the hostess behind the antique cash register. She flips a light switch and you wait. When the light goes out, someone opens the bookcase and leads you back to the bar.

It is beautiful, dark, and moody. And you are taken care of from the moment you enter. The best service, welcome drinks, amazing food, fabulous drinks. They have it all. All 5 shakers are well deserved. This was Patti’s choice for Best of 2023.

Retrograde

Retrograde is hidden inside an ice cream shop with the entry through the freezer door. It is a fantastic hidden entry. Once at the freezer, you have to flip a switch and wait to be granted entrance. So shakers for both hidden and entrance.

Once inside, the theme is retro-science fiction – think sixties/seventies era sci-fi. The drinks are all titled to sound like terrible sixties era science fiction movies, like My Alien Girlfriend, Vegas in Space, Time Chasers, and Alien Apocalypse. Full shakers for theme and drinks. The drinks are a little too weird (too many ingredients, trying a little too hard) but an experience. The half shaker markdown came from service. It wasn’t bad at all, but just not stand out.

B&GC

One of Denver’s hottest speakeasies, B&GC is located in the Cherry Creek neighborhood. It is hidden down an alley, so definitely scores for secret. After ringing an unmarked brass doorbell, a hostess greets you and you are led down to an elegant, retro lounge. We are only giving a half shaker for the theme – the decor and vibe was cohesive but I’m not sure you could name it. Drinks were fantastic and creative (although we may have had a few too many by the time we were there). Service earns a half shaker – our bartender was friendly but very busy.

Emerald Eye

A newer kid on the block (Larimer Square, that is), Emerald Eye gets 3 shakers. Only 1/2 for hidden – it would have been a full shaker for the great neon symbol over the doorway (which we love!) but there was that sandwich board, so 1/2 deduct. Full shakers for theme (think 1955 Caribbean) and cocktails (creative, themed, with a special emphasis on the curated rum & agave program). And 1/2 shaker for service – I don’t think there was table service, order at the bar only, but I could be wrong. But the bartenders and door guy (Dylan) were wonderful so giving them a 1/2 shaker benefit of the doubt.

Run for the Roses

This one pains me. People love it, I have given it a couple of chances and just cannot. It is Secret and earns a full shaker. The lead in from the Dairy Block is fun… a generic neon “Cocktails” sign and stenciled roses leading down below street level is very cool. The entrance is a check-in at the race course style “betting window”. No other task and the opening to the bar isn’t hidden, but it is charming so it gets the half shaker.

Inside the bar, you would expect the race track theme to carry on. It doesn’t. But the room is beautiful. I love the decor but it is not a theme. And the drink menu comes in the form of a deck of cards…this does not further a theme, although very fun and the drinks are fantastic. Score a shaker for the drinks. Service on both visits was not good. It has the makings of a great time – I really hope you have a better experience.

Millers & Rossi

Millers & Rossi is located in a non-descript brick building in RiNo. The name is on the door but it sounds like it could be a law office. The front used to be the Ohana Room (tiki bar), now the whole space appears to be Millers & Rossi so not too secret and no entrance. Toward the back is a plush & comfortable bar. It is a little piece of calm (at least when we were there).

The drinks were fantastic and with an interesting list of spirits (they have Arak!). Drinks score one full shaker. We’ll give them a half shaker for the secrecy (you could easily walk past it), half shaker for service (friendly just nothing memorable), and half for theme – it was a great vibe and there was something to it.

Lincoln’s

Here is another example of why the objective shaker score has nothing to do with how fantastic a bar is. We love Lincoln’s!! One of the best in Denver, for sure. It only gets shakers for Hidden and Theme. Not only is it completely hidden, but people in Denver are trying to keep it this way. So far, most of the social media that I’ve seen have been hush hush about the location. The theme is, of course, Lincoln, America, and the $5 cocktail.

No shakers for entrance (no task), service (all orders are from the bar), and cocktails (we love the simplicity, but there are tap beers and 10 spirits, 10 mixers, and 1 barreled Old Fashioned).

Cruise Room

The Cruise Room is historic and people love it. The oldest bar in Denver, opening the day after Prohibition was repealed, we had high hopes. But there is nothing secret about it, no entrance, the service was not good, and we weren’t able to try enough of the drinks to give a fair opinion. We would love to give this another shot and hope to hear if you have had a better experience. One and a half shakers for Theme – think historic Queen Mary (but entirely red lighting) and drinks.

San Diego

Young Blood

On the San Diego scene, this is an obvious 5-Shaker.  Sharing a space inside Neighborhood (along with other CH Project property, Noble Experiment). It checks every box, from the hidden entrance with task – enter behind the wall of kegs and cooler walk through, to the ambiance, the service (Alexandra and then Francesca were incredible), the cocktails.  Youngblood was perfection in a speakeasy.

Bar Kamon

This was such a great experience.  Bar Kamon is hidden inside a fabulous looking Japanese bakery and is accessed behind an obscure door hidden in the wall. They understand service, they understand spirts 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.

Realm of the 52 Remedies

Accessed through a hidden Traditional Chinese Medicine apothecary inside Common Theory. Full shakers for being hidden, for a challenge, for service, theme, and cocktails.  This was an easy 5-Shaker.  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, although we did not eat.  We were happy and would definitely go back. Plus, they made the 2026 list of 50 Best Bars in North America at number 93!

Room 56

A fantastic experience, this was one of our favorites in San Diego.  This had a hidden entrance inside the very fun Moxy Hotel and a unique entry task that is sent to you a few hours before your reservation! Service was the real standout here, simply fantastic. They are getting a full shaker for service, a full shaker each for hidden and task, a shaker for cocktails, and a shaker for theme. 

False Idol

Raised by Wolves

Another really strong hidden bar, Raised by Wolves is accessed inside a working, high-end bottle shop inside Westfield UTC. The revolving fireplace entrance is a first for us and we loved it! Full shakers were earned for the gorgeous interior and an outstanding cocktail program. Only half shakers were given for Hidden and Service – the bottle shop location is technically hidden but the gathered/waiting customers really give away the entrance and spoil the mystery. Service was good but definitely too bustling to be personal and engaging.

Oculto 477

They get the full shaker for hidden and for task, it’s a fun concept.  Oculto 477 is located inside Tahona Bar, adjacent to a cemetery in Old Town; the confession of a sin is required for entry. 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, unfortunately, it did not match up with the themed experience we were hoping for.

Prohibition

San Diego’s oldest speakeasy, this was a gem. 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.

Captains Quarters

Sharing a space with the Grass Skirt in Pacific Beach, Captains Quarters scores slightly higher as it is unmarked (inside the well-marked Grass Skirt). Entry is granted by the host, through a completely concealed door behind a mural, it gets full shakers for hidden and half for entry, a definite nautical/ship theme and drinks. Without experiencing the service, we assigned half, based on its neighbor, Grass Skirt.

Part Time Lover

We loved this groovy listening lounge. It masquerades behind a dilapidated Records and Liquor store sign in North Park. It gets a shaker for being hidden but there was no task. Full shakers each for the theme – which is funky, 70s style living room and creative drinks. Ordering was done at the bar so that gets half shaker.

Convoy Music Bar

This was a surprise stop for us and worth the search! The entrance is covert – down an alley behind a strip mall in the Convoy neighborhood, with just a red light above a doorway. No task to get in so no shaker here. The theme was another listening lounge but it was pretty cool that the DJ was center, behind the bar. This was a really pretty, comfy bar with interesting drinks and friendly service (although maybe just walk-up?).

The Grass Skirt

The Grass Skirt is a well-marked tiki bar in Pacific Beach. It seems that it used to be hidden inside a sushi bar, but that is no longer the case. Entry is gained by a hostess stand (shared with Captains Quarters) and through a freezer door (we gave them a half shaker for this). The tiki theme was on point. Really well done – thorough without being cheesy. And drinks were fantastic. Service was good, but not anything special so we gave them another half shaker.

Seattle – link to the blog

Foreign National

**we are so sad to report that Foreign National (our highest rated in Seattle) closed its doors in July 2025**

Paper Fan Cocktail Co.

Located above the very bustling Biang Biang Noodles shop, an unmarked staircase leads to the Paper Fan Cocktail Company was delightful. We gave this 4.5 shakers – one each for hidden, theme, drinks, and service; half for entrance. The entrance is hidden but a reservation is required with check-in with the hostess. She will lead you up the stairs (you cannot just walk in). The upstairs bar is a much calmer, tea house themed; and many of the cocktails are tea-infused. We loved our drinks! The 3 ladies behind the bar were incredible – excellent skill and service!

Needle & Thread

Another 4.5 shaker! Needle & Thread comes highly recommended! Hidden inside Tavern Law, you enter by picking up an old phone connecting you to Needle & Thread upstairs. We love the secret phone entrance! Two shakers off the bat!

Needle & Thread is prohibition themed but light & airy with light colored wood, not dim & dark. The deal with N&T is that there is no menu, you are quizzed on your likes and dislikes, your flavors and moods, and cocktails are created just for you. It is a great concept and earned a shaker. The only 1/2 shaker deduction came from the service – our server, charged with collecting our likes/wishes was not particularly friendly nor did she put effort into drawing information out. However, the bartenders were fabulous.

Founders Club

The Founders Club is hidden behind a bookcase in the lobby bar of the Fairmont Olympic Hotel. This is a fantastically hidden entrance, equating to shakers. The interior is gorgeous, decorated in rich red leathers and wood. Very private club. The drinks are incredible – creative twists on the standards – unique and interesting – but expensive! The perfect place for a pre-dinner or post-theater drink. Service was maked down by 1/2 – it was absolutely fine but nothing special.

{Unlisted}

We love {Unlisted}. It is perfection in all shaker categories but they do not have any entrance task – thus only 4 shakers. We vowed to give them 4++ because of the gorgeous interior and incredible service! The giant elephant and Indian safari theme entranced us. Definitely one to check out!

Phocific Standard Time (PST)

How can we have so many favorites? PST did have our favorite sip of the trip – the “khoa was here #khoawuzhere” – Pho-fat washed Jameson with a hot pho shot back! Yes, yes, yes!!

Anyway…I digress…4 shakers – hidden, theme, drinks & service. No entrance. Inside Pho Bac, there is a staircase (a small sign says that you must be 21 to enter but it doesn’t say for what), up the stairs, behind the beaded curtain is a Vietnamese themed speakeasy serving themed cocktails and fantastic food. The service is top notch as well. The one shaker deduction came from no entrance task.

Inside Passage (link to blog)

Inside Passage is one of the most immersive bars on the list – it would score more than one shaker in theme if it could. You’ll be tempted to call it Tiki, but it is “an immersive underwater, tropical experience celebrating the uniqueness, history and beauty of the Pacific Northwest”. It also scores a full shaker for secret – hidden inside Rumba Bar on Capital Hill, Drinks – elaborate & impressive, and Service – top notch. The only deduction comes from entrance – no trick or task, just reservations.

The Doctor’s Office

The Doctor’s Office is the place you want to hang out! Except for the white neon sign signifying “The Doctor’s Office” outside an otherwise abandoned looking building on Capitol Hill, you would not know what was behind that door. Luckily when you find out, you are in for a treat. This small, intimate neighborhood bar is friendly, eclectic and fun. The drinks are inventive – rare spirits, interesting ingredients and fantastic flavors. Love this place! Shakers for Hidden, theme, drinks & service. No entrance task.

Deep Dive

Deep Dive is located within the Amazon Spheres. This hard-to-get reservation was an interesting one! We gave it 1/2 shaker for hidden – the name is on the door but the door is not obvious. Because of the reservation/hostess and very long ramp entry way we allowed another 1/2 for entrance. Once inside, the theme is fascinating – dark blue, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (to us) or Four Elements of Earth (per the bartender. The drinks and food were unique and delicious. Service was friendly and interactive. We enjoyed our visit, although all in all it was not among our favorite stops.

Rich Rich

Rich Rich is disco-y pink good time. A grungy back alley entrance was almost perfect but a sandwich board dropped it to 1/2 shaker. No entrance task dropped another shaker. But from that point, full shakers for theme – pink and disco-y fun; drinks – big, creative menu; and fantastic service. This Queen Anne stop is a must do!

Knee High Stocking Company

**Knee High Stocking Co has permanently closed**

The Pharmacy

Don’t let the 3 shakers fool you. We really enjoyed The Pharmacy and it came highly recommended by many people along our tour. The entrance is hidden in the basement of Temple Billiards in Pioneer Square, one shaker. But once you head down the (mostly) unmarked stairs there is no entrance task (no shaker).

However, the theme is 1970’s Palm Springs, funky. We loved it – one shaker. It is huge and a great place to hang out indefinitely. The drink menu online is HUGE. In person, the choices are more limited but I’m sure they can do it all. The other markdown for service is because you order at the counter, no table service. The bartender was adorable and friendly but very limited interaction.

Bathtub Gin & Co

We hit this one early in our speakeasy quest and had a bit of a challenge finding it so it definitely collects a shaker for Secret. Once you find the wooden door in an alley with an elegant little sign, there is no entrance challenge nor are you let in by a host (so minus one shaker). We gave it one shaker for theme – centered on gin and gin-style prohibition era with a great collection and very cool brick and wood interior. Despite it being a 5-seat rounded bar, the service and drinks were meh.

Skein & Tipple (Whidbey Island)

Hands down one of our favorites (I think we say that a lot!). Skein & Tipple is on Whidbey Island, so a ferry ride away from Seattle, you aren’t just going to stumble upon it. You are going to have to go with the intent of spending a least one night on the island and you should. Skein & Tipple lands 4 full shakers.

We think this speakeasy hidden inside of a working yarn store is adorable. The nightly line starts well before opening and is first come. The entrance only gets a half shaker as you must check in and cannot get in by yourself, although there is no task.

Once you are lucky enough to get inside, it is Prohibition themed from decor (with a PNW/Whidbey focus) to drinks. Heavy on the whiskey & gin but super creative and twisty, this was one of Patti’s most memorable drinks: The Fat Elvis (peanut butter old fashioned with a bruleed banana and bacon. You could spend some time working through this interesting drink menu. Service got marked to half only because you order from the bar, no table service; however, the owners and staff are fantastic.

Kansas City – link to the blog

Swordfish Tom’s

For sure the best of KCMO. Swordfish Tom’s only lost half a shaker because the door from the alley is marked. To be fair, unless you were looking, you would not find the door (so half). Other than that, it really was perfection. A knock to enter (so full shaker). Engaging, knowledgeable server. Inspired, tasty cocktails. An industrial inspired, really well executed design. And overall, someplace that makes you feel comfortable; where you just want to spend your time.

Hey Hey Club

We had to make some assumptions here since we visited during a holiday pop-up. The sign directing you to the Hey Hey Club in the basement of J. Rieger’s was somewhat unassuming so we did give it half a shaker. Once down the stairs, there is no entry requirement (or so it seems). From our experience, service was outstanding so definitely the full shaker. As for theme and cocktails – we give both a shaker (for the Christmas tiki theme). And from our research, during non-holiday times, they look like that would be a fair score as well. So we stand by the 3.5 rating.

PS Lounge

The PS Lounge received 3 shakers. It scores shakers for theme, cocktails and service. Shakers were lost for Secret and Entrance. There were signs and directions all over The Hotel Phillips directing you to this place. And once you arrive to the entrance – which is a very cool metal, sliding door (tons of potential!) – there is nothing required but to check in.

The interior is elegant in an old Hollywood way. Service was fantastic and the drinks were as well. A great date night or pre-dinner choice.

Savannah – link to the blog

Alley Cat

Possibly our favorite stop in Savannah, we loved Alley Cat. It was a challenge to find so it scores in the Secret category. But once inside the unmarked alley door, no other entrance task. A basement bar full of Savannah history, a menu printed on newspaper, and a huge spirits collection. The drink menu was inventive and everything we tried was a homerun. Southern hospitality abounds. So 3 more shakers. We solidly gave this 4 shakers but as of this writing, there is now a glass door with a big sign above it! So, deducting a half.

Kentucky

Hell or High Water (Louisville)

Hell or High Water comes highly recommended by everyone we know that has been and by Chowhound’s list of 13 Speakeasies that Actually Feel Scandalous. And this is a great list, featuring some of our other favorites like Midnight Cowboy in Austin and Drifter in Chicago.

HoHW gets 4 shakers – it is hidden with the only indication from the street is a globe light with their HoHW logo Entering this door, through another and down the stairs you will find this gorgeous bar. The space is prohibition-era but prettier than most any we have been to. The bourbon collection is impressive, it is Kentucky afterall and the drinks were fabulous! Service earned another shaker, the ladies behind the bar were friendly and knowledgeable. The only shaker lost was for task, there was no task to get in.

Constitution (Lexington)

This popular speakeasy in Lexington earned all 5 shakers. It is a non-descript building from the outside and has a task to enter through a book shelf. The historic theme, great drinks and service complete the shakers. We did not have a reservation and were able to score seats at the bar but we definitely recommend reserving ahead of time.

Cincinnati

Ghost Baby

Ghost Baby is a COOL one! This swanky speakeasy is located four stories underground in the old lagering tunnels of Cincinnati. These tunnels were used by Cincinnati Brewing Company 150 years ago to cool & age beer prior to prohibition. Today it is a beautiful, prohibition-era speakeasy with a front bar area and a larger back room with a stage and live music.

It scores 3.5 shakers – the entrance is unmarked, just illuminated with purple bulbs and an unmarked elevator down the four flights (or stairs if your choose). The bars are truly built into the tunnels, with rustic, curved ceilings and walls. But the perfectly appointed bar, furniture, lighting and seating would have you feeling like you stepped into the 1930s.

The theme carries over into the cocktails – modern cocktails inspired by their prohibition ancestors. So one shaker each for theme and cocktails. The deductions came from no entry task and mixed service. We had one great bartender but the rest of the staff ranged from friendly to aloof, so minus half. Overall score 3.5.

Washington, D.C.

Denson Liquor Bar

This was a tough one to rate because once again, the rating is not indicative of the experience. The entrance is not marked so plus one. There is nothing else required for entry except a reservation (highly recommended) so no shaker here.

The interior is beautiful, moody, rich and elegant. And that “theme” if you will, carries over to the cocktails. Because everything “fit”, I’m considering this very on brand and giving a shaker for theme. Cocktails were outstanding – very creative and well thought out. Modern and unique without trying too hard. You know we hate when they try too hard with weird ingredients!

The service only gets half. It was fine. Overall, service in D.C. is horrible so this may be a step up but it is hard to say. The half score comes because our server was somewhat friendly and from observation, the bartender seemed chatty with the people at the bar. So, some credit here.

I had a week to spend traveling after my Bali yoga retreat, and Peggy had a week to join me.  Where can we go for one week and feel like we saw and did enough?  The answer in Southeast Asia was Cambodia. But we would still have to narrow it down to one area, Siem Reap.

Sister Side Note (ssn) – If you remember, we did this a couple of years ago in Malaysia!  The week wasn’t long enough but we did a damn good job!

The first time I said the words out loud ‘we are going to Cambodia’ I had to check myself. Was that right?  Were we really going to Cambodia?  I mean, really, who goes to Cambodia besides Cambodians? 

It turns out, a lot of the rest of the world know about this secret gem of a country and visit there.  It is just us Americans who are missing out.

Many of us remember the horrors of the Pol Pok era of Cambodia and The Killing Fields, and have been wary of Cambodia since that time.  We had an overwhelming desire to see Angkor Wat Temple, so off we went for one week in Siem Reap.

ssn – Angkor Wat is must-do on many travel lists, we like this one: 100 most beautiful places to visit

The Plan

I fly to Siem Reap the morning after my retreat. Peggy flies in the day before and gets spa treatments to kill time until I get there.  We opted to just focus on Siem Reap on this trip. Phnom Penh was just too far (5.5hrs) to spend a day traveling there and a day traveling back.  I say traveling back because flights to the US from Phnom Penh were difficult (compared to Siem Reap, which were relatively easy.)

And we do not regret this decision.

We knew we would need at least two half-days just for visiting the Angkor Wat Temple complex. Plus there are lotus farms, and the floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, and more. So our research and planning confirmed our decision that we could spend a week in Siem Reap and not miss anything on our list.

So, off we go.

Side Note to Start

Your sisters did try to make this into a day drinking and/or speakeasy trip.  And while drinking was plentiful in Siem Reap, and Pub Street was fantastic, we found that speakeasies, aka ‘hidden bars’ were anything but hidden.  We made the decision that there were far too many bars on Pub Street to really throw our cred behind specific ones for a post when we couldn’t consider any of these speakeasies. So we would bypass any day-drinking/speakeasy blogs for Cambodia.

HOWEVER, we absolutely loved ASANA Old Wooden House bar.  It is high up on our list of cool bars we have been to. I had Little Sweet made with gin, wild ginger, sugarcane, and turmeric. It ranks as one of the best cocktails I have had this year.  This is our one big recommendation of places to not miss for drinking in Siem Reap.

Angkor Wat

This is the biggest draw to Cambodia and Siem Reap, specifically. Angkor Wat is the world’s largest religious monument. The name translates to City of Temples; it symbolizes the home of the gods. With 5 central towers representing the peaks of Mount Meru and surrounded by a massive moat. It was built in the 12^th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu (the Hindu God of protection) but later became a Buddhist site.

Cambodian religious views have swayed between Hinduism and Buddhism for centuries depending on the leadership views.  Angkor Wat was abandoned in the early 15^th century and was rediscovered after the French colonial regime was established in 1863.

The entire Angkor Wat site spans over 400 acres, but the entire Angkor archeological park covers 248 square miles. So we really recommend breaking this up over two days instead of rushing through it all in one, long day.

If possible, do not miss sunrise at Angkor Wat.  Yes, this will require an early morning wake-up to get out there in time, but it is very worth it.  For those that have done Haleakalā in Hawaii for sunrise, this is a similar experience with the crowds, only much warmer.

Angkor Wat is a UNESCO World Heritage site, for those that track their UNESCO visits. It is slightly mind-blowing given the size, the age, and the details of the construction.  The outer walls feature long carved surfaces telling the stories of war, peace, and daily life – many of the carvings have been immaculately preserved (or in some cases, restored), and are fascinating to follow. 

For historical and archeological fans, Angkor Wat is a not to be missed site.

Ta Prohm

Many of you will know this temple.  You will know it by simply two words: Lara Croft.

This is the temple that Lara Croft visits in Tomb Raider.  The one with the tree roots engulfing the stone walls, and large trees growing in and out and over the temple.

Built in 1100s to honor the king’s mother (King Jayavarman VII, if you are interested). After the fall of the Khmer Empire in the 15^th century the temple was abandoned and neglected for centuries.

As it was built without the use of mortar, the jungle crept in over the years and allowed it to become one with the landscape.  Restoration efforts have left Ta Prohm largely as it was been found to demonstrate the power of nature, with only stabilization and site access being points of restoration.

In other words, it is insanely cool.  Rewatch the movie, then go see this temple.  It is absolutely amazing.

ssn – we literally watched the movie the night before our visit in the hotel room in order to prepare ourselves!  We’ve started to make this a little tradition – we did the same in Colombia when we watched Romancing the Stone.

Bayon & Angkor Thom

The Bayon temple known as “the many faces temple” should be visited before Ta Prohm, simply because it is cool on its own, but pales in comparison to the coolness of Ta Prohm. 

Built by the same king (Jayavarman VII, there will not be a test at the end) as Ta Prohm, the Bayon Temple features 54 towers adorned with over 200 massive stone faces.  Could be Buddha, could be the King, the faces are known for the “smiling” expressions emoting a peaceful feeling to followers.  The site is under restoration but has a definite feeling of a sacred space. It is incredible to walk through the maze of narrow corridors and steep stairs (we eventually nope’d out of the last set of stairs).

Thom is closer to Angkor Wat, so it will be a natural second stop on your way to Ta Prohm. There are great carvings, and unique features to Angkor Thom, so do not skip it in favor of rushing to the ultra-cool Ta Prohm.  It is worth your time to make the stop and traverse the unique features of this stone temple.

How to See the Temples

These three temples (Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm) were grouped together into the “Small Circuit Tour”.  We hired a private tour through our hotel, and it was a fantastic deal compared to Viator/Trip Advisor.  We paid $35 USD for an air-conditioned car (a tuk tuk would have been $19, a van was $55).  Added $10 for sunrise on the first day.  An additional $50 per day for an English-speaking guide.  Typically, these would have been accomplished in one day, roughly 5 hours.

A “Big Circuit Tour” was available, with 3-4 other temples.  We opted not to do this.

The Small and Big Circuit Tours both require an Angkor Wat entry ticket that you should purchase in advance, here. Tickets are available in 1, 3, or 7 days. A single ticket covers both circuits.

Banteay Srei Temple

Known as the Pink Temple, or Lady Temple. I have had a great time referring to it as my special “Lady Temple”.  Alternately called “Citadel of the Women”, it is constructed of pink sandstone and is the only temple of its kind at Angkor Wat.  Smaller than the imposing structures of the male deities, Banteay Srei is single story. It lies about 20 km from the main Angkor complex and is far less visited. Therefore, less crowded than the bigger temples for Angkor Wat.  This tour was a $20 add on to our Small Circuit Tour.

The original build is inscribed as 22 April 967 A.D., making it among the oldest of the temple complexes, it was discovered in 1914, and restoration was the first use of anastylosis, the process of using the original structural elements in the restoration.  The carvings pay tribute to many devatas (minor female deities) and exist in greater detail than many of the other structures in the complex. Walls are adorned with many intricate carvings and great elaborate story telling designs.  The temple was dedicated to Shiva and many of the carvings are centered around him.  The details contained in this temple were amazingly beautiful.

We recommend visiting Banteay Srei at the beginning of your day two, as it is a drive from Angkor Wat. Due to its low profile, it does not have the shade of the larger temples and can get hot in the afternoon sun. 

Beyond Temples

There are other options in Siem Reap if temples and history do not appeal to you.  First off, shopping and spa treatments are cheap.  The street food is delicious.  Pub Street and the Night Markets provide fantastic fun nightlife.

Our other three must-see experiences are the Rat Museum (yes, really, hear us out on this), the lotus silk farms, and the Tonle Sap floating village.

Apopo Rat Museum

Yes, rats!  We did this tour in an hour and were amazed.  Siem Reap is where they train rats to locate land mines in the country.  Rats are light enough to not set off the land mines, unlike humans and dogs.  The museum has a tour where they explain the training process and show you a demonstration.  And they are a kind of kangaroo rat, so they are fluffier and cuter than the sewer rats we see in America. 

These rats are now used in 12 different countries in Asia, Africa, and Europe to detect unexploded land mines.  They have saved countless lives (and limbs) and are considered heroes for the work they perform.  The program has cleared over 170,000 landmines and other explosives and returned over 143 million square meters of land for safe use in local communities. Their impact has affected over 2.8 million people. 

Rats can clear the area the size of a tennis court in just about 30 minutes.  The previous way with people with metal detectors took up to four days. 

Please visit apopo.org for more information and donate to adopt one of these rats.

Visit the Lotus Silk Farms

Lotus are my favorite flowers. Lotus flowers grow out of the mud and into these gorgeous bright colored, multi-layered flowers. And this was my big to-do for this trip.  The lotus fields are gorgeous. 

The Lotus Silk Farms offer tours and show how they process lotus stems to form silk fibers that are woven into scarves and fabric.  They use the petals for tea, the seeds for jewelry and the leaves for coloring dyes.  They make use of all the different parts, so the waste is minimal.

The farms train and employ local village women providing a much-needed source of income that stays within the community and helps supply economic stability for its residents.

Tonle Sap Lake and the Floating Village

Full disclosure, we visited at the end of the dry season, so the floating village on Tonle Sap Lake was not floating.  In fact, it was much like coastal towns that prepare for hurricanes by having building houses on stilts. 

We hired our new friend Cowboy Tuk Tuk to see sunset over the lake.  Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. 

Houses stood 15 feet up on stilts, and we learned that during the rainy season the lake will rise 6-9 meters in height, giving these houses the appearance of floating on the lake.  Boats line the shores in dry dock essentially just waiting for the rain. 

We did go out to the lake, which does exist at a lower level, and experienced a beautiful sunset with beers and a local family having a beach party. 

I was struck by how happy lake life was for the locals.  Living close to poverty levels, they fished for dinner and grew their own vegetables and rice, and they were all so happy, warm, and welcoming to two women who spoke not a single word of their language.

Kids ran through the streets playing, adults gathered around their open fire barbeques to cook the catch of the day and enjoy a few Angkor beers.

Life is happier and easier for those that keep it simple.

And Speaking of our new Friend

Cowboy Tuk Tuk on TikTok and Instagram, and also known as the Cambodian Cowboy, our new friend provides beer, water, and Karaoke on his Tuk Tuk tours. 

Tuk Tuk Karaoke Night 1

We hired him to take us to the lake for sunset.  We sang, we drank beers, we stopped and saw crocodiles and frog farms and had the best night. So much so that we hired him for the second night to take us to the lotus farms (the next night crocs and frogs were replaced with ducks).

He is kind, informative, helpful, and most of all fun.  And screams Yee-Haw often and loudly, please do not hold back in joining him every time.

Tuk Tuk Karaoke Night 2

He texted us the morning before our second tour and asked if we would be interested in providing notebooks and pens to local children for school.  We had learned on our temple tour that school was free, but kids couldn’t go if they couldn’t afford uniforms and school supplies – thus perpetuating the cycle of the poor stay poor because of a lack of access to education.

We were an absolute yes to helping these children.  Cowboy picked us up and took us to a local market to purchase notebooks and pens and then took us to a local village to distribute them.  He blasted his music so the kids all knew he was coming.  They lined up single-file, he has taught them all to say “thank you” in English, it was adorable.

We were heartbroken to realize that we didn’t buy enough, and we ran out of supplies before we got to the far end of the village.  Next time we know, buy more than enough!!!

We do highly recommend booking our Cowboy Tuk Tuk but prepare ahead of time an amazing playlist of easy to sing-along songs to belt out loudly as your travel to the countryside.

Where to stay in Siem Reap

We broke up our trip into two stays.  Thank you Chase Rewards for the credit so that we can afford to stay at the Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor. 

Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor

While Raffles is usually beyond our typical budget, Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor is one of the most affordable in the luxury line of hotels.  And it was so worth the price tag.

The service is impeccable, the concierge, the bartenders, the pool, the spa, every staff member was helpful and friendly and make the Raffles as good as it is.  It was glorious and amazing to be waited on for two days.  The pool was huge, and came with pool side service including mosquito spray, sunscreen, body oils, hand fans, and a little bell to ring for our pool boy.  The décor was upscale tropical, jungle vibes, from the elephant bar to the lobby, it was relaxed and calming, you just wanted to hang out in the lobby and feel spoiled.

They offer several free classes over the course of the week, including how to make the famous Raffles Sling (Siem Reap edition, although the original Singapore Sling is on the menu), a morning Buddhist blessing, yoga class, and a gin lesson.

And the buffet, holy cow, instead of chaffing dishes they had hot plates with La Creuset Dutch ovens for the hot food, that level of fancy.  They had a crepe station, egg station, and a congee station.  The fruit and pastries were fresh and rotated out periodically to maintain freshness.  Suffice to say, one of the best hotels we have ever stayed in.

If it is in your budget, we cannot stress enough how much you need to be spoiled at Raffles.

Le Grande Indochine Hotel

The Hotel

However, that said, if your budget requires a little more grace and space, our second hotel was Le Grande Indochine, and it was incredible.  A gorgeous white, open-air lobby, connected to the pool and bar area, you feel special upon entry.  Smaller and more intimate than the Raffles, we cannot brag enough about how amazing our new Cambodian sister, Luna, was.  She booked us our temple tours, including securing a guide fluent in English, she booked our spa treatments, and followed up to make sure everything was satisfactory.  They give you the WhatsApp number to the lobby, for convenience of whatever you need from them. The entire staff was friendly and helpful, Luna became family. 

Spa Services and More

But the spa treatment, holy cow!  Ok, first off, I did mention the low cost of all things in Siem Reap (outside of the Raffles), Peggy’s day one spa experience was so good, I was required to repeat it the next day.  For the two-hour experience of a body scrub and hour-long massage, $32.  And it was an incredible massage (side note: if you get the healing scrub, the yellow one, shower off REALLY well, because I had to toss a shirt and live with a permanently yellow stained white bra).

If you love a good massage, this one had an interesting highlight that we don’t get most places, it was almost intuitive – it was not do this on one side and then do this on the other side, each side, each limb, was treated individually, and felt like (I was face down) she was writing little blessings on each one to put the oil on, and then the massage on top of that. I left feeling very special (and wondering if we were now betrothed), relaxed and pampered, I will miss my lovely masseuse forever.  But seriously, if nothing else convinces you to go to Cambodia – Go for the cheap spa treatments (yes, even cheaper than Bali)!

ssn – my 3-hour treatment was only $50!! And possibly the best massage I’ve ever had in my life.

In Conclusion

Cambodia is hot, really hot.  And humid.  But Siem Reap is dry and dusty during the dry season. You will want to be indoors or poolside in the afternoons. 

Tuk Tuks are a major mode of transportation for all your touristy needs; they are cheap and fun but not air conditioned.

Cambodians are among the nicest people we have encountered in our travels.  They are warm and welcoming, and the service people we encountered couldn’t do enough to help us. 

The food is excellent and cheap, do not be afraid to try it all.

Spa treatments are excellent and cheap and may or may not come with a marriage proposal.

US Dollars are the common currency.  Prices are listed in USD; it is widely accepted and is even given in the ATMs.

There is a reason the rest of the world loves this country for a vacation spot, and we highly recommend Americans recognize this underrated spot and give them a visit.

Other Southeast Asia Adventures

• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Ipoh, Malaysia
• Penang, Malaysia
• Langkawi, Malaysia
• Bali

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
• Chicago
• Denver
• Seattle
• Kansas City
• Paris
• London

Others in our Day Drinking Series

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

Ok, so this is going to be more about the fun side of London, but doesn’t the dark, seedy side sound fascinating?

Behind unmarked doors, down narrow staircases, and through the kind of “are we in the right place?” entrances we live for, London’s speakeasy scene is deliciously dark (like me) and just a little dramatic (like Peggy). Local purveyors of the drinking arts have made the Speakeasy scene fun and inventive and absolutely some of the best experiences to be had. The kind of spots that make you feel like you’re getting away with something…you know we’re in.

Arriving in London

A Chunnel train ride was not what was on my bucket list, EVER (a train tunnel high-speed underwater?  NO, THANK YOU), but is the best way to get from Paris to London, so off we went.

We absolutely love London.  It is such an amazing city.  This being our fourth time in this city we decided to just skip all plans to “see the city” and just focus on bar hopping and hitting up some speakeasies.  We did buy a 2-day pass on the Hop On Hop Off bus (the HO-HO, named after my sister) which covers an immense amount of London, so there was limited Ubering, Tube navigation, and no need to be driving.

It was a great decision and one we highly recommend.

The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town

With a name like that, how do you not want to go to this speakeasy!  It just screams fun and the ability to not take themselves to seriously.  And that is exactly what we found.

The Entrance

The Breakfast Club Spitalfields closes at 4 pm (but has great food and huge portions if you are looking for breakfast or lunch in London).  If you show up after that, the restaurant will be dark, but there will be a doorman and a velvet rope inside the entrance.  Tell him you are looking for the mayor.  He will call someone to help you.  Out pops our host, who then asks us if we know how to get in, because it’s a hidden secret, and it’s fantastically speakeasy-ish.  We did know, but he will help you if you don’t.  Hint:  check out the oddly located item that doesn’t belong in the hallway.

The Experience

The doorway leads down a ramp into a brick basement (yes, London has a lot of brick buildings, obviously).  Low ceilings, wooden bar, fabulously decorated with old signs, some slightly challenging your sense of decency.  But luckily, there is a No Heavy Petting sign and a giant moose head. The brickwall has little gaps with little surprises stuck in them.  The energy is low key, but the service is spectacular and engaging, they obviously love what they do here.

Great drink names like Eat the Rich, Wake Me Up and F*ck Me, and Pink Responsibly. They had fun making this menu, and put some great thought into their creations.  Seating is tight, but on purpose, so you can mingle and meet your neighbors, interaction is encouraged.  And the menu contains some basic words of advice to make your visit more pleasant, such as the Mayor demands the highest standards of self-deprecation, don’t leave through the entrance, and upon leaving they suggest you act nonchalant, like you’ve just had a pee (and leave your fly down to add to the charade).  Oh, and PS, anyone named Garfield receives their first drink on the house (with proper identification).

So many great shaker locations to be had in London, this one gets a 5 shaker!

Sister Side Note (ssn) – we loved The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town – the entrance, the service, the other people and the vibe. Everything! Plus that smoked drink had the attention of the whole bar, they really know how to show off! Oh yeah – it is cash only!

I wish we could have stayed longer but we were on our way to our interactive Jack the Ripper Tour. Spoiler alert, interactive does not mean there is any actual murder.

Discount Suit Company

Unassuming, yet so well done. I immediately loved Discount Suit Company when I saw their entrance online.  I don’t know why I was so drawn to this, but something about it screamed ‘YES, WE MUST’ to me.

The Entrance

An old abandoned-looking building with a big worn lettering falling off, declaring what used to be the Discount Suit Company. An obviously out of business industrial corner shop, and off to the side, just a plain black door. That’s it, it feels like you are in an old, run-down part of town.  A “should I be in this area at night” kind of corner – but it is not in a sketchy area, and it is not an unsafe place to be (promise, mom, I didn’t even go down an alley to get here).

Go through the door, down the dark staircase (maybe use your phone for light), and then BAM, I ran into a curtain that I didn’t even see because it was black and unlit, and well, a little sketchy feeling.  But what the heck, go in anyway.

The Experience

Now, this is what you absolutely imagine a speakeasy was like in 1922.  Dark, basement room, no fuss, just a wooden bar, wooden chairs, low tables and chairs in an old brick room.  The cocktails are exquisite and worth the entire experience, there is nothing low key or understated about the Umbrella Vesper or their Moonstomp (homemade whisky, sake, toasted rice, mango, coconut, soda.  Hello wheelhouse…nice to see you).  These people know their way around mixology and are making fantastic concoctions! 

ssn – Discount Suit gets a lot of attention online but it is not overhyped. Definitely the kind of place to settle in and hangout.

Bar Lina Soho

This one threw me off by the name.  I feel like we have encountered Bar Lina before in other cities.  But a bar in an Italian Deli sounds like a winner of a location to me.

The Entrance

The Lina Stores Delicatessen and Restaurants have several locations around London but four of them have “hidden” bars, Bar Lina. We went to Bar Lina Soho.  And OMG, the deli itself is so cute.  Just, why don’t I live in a town that has an Italian deli kind of cute!  The meat and cheese case, the walls of snacks, crackers, pasta and biscotti, this would be on my weekly list of places to shop.  But the lady at the back can help you gain entrance to the speakeasy in the basement.  Down a flight of stairs, Italian art along the staircase, and into the intimate, velvet luxury of Bar Lina.

The Experience

The staff was knowledgeable and friendly, but were being monopolized by a loud touristy lady with her roller suitcase demanding attention and conversation. We would have felt bad for them but the rock and roll Ed Hardy T-shirt wearing guy with his clearly first Grindr date kept us entertained.

We settled on our standard wheelhouse drinks, but then minutes after our drinks arrive, the cute lady from upstairs appeared with our apertivo.  They operate Bar Lina with a traditional Italian bar concept of small plates to compliment your cocktails. Bar Lina was definitely experience focused, we had a little mini panini with our drink, round two provides you with a cheese pairing for your cocktail, they embrace the Italian way of making drinking and event, not just cheap drinks to get you as drunk as possible.  It was charming, and we felt so special at Bar Lina. 

Archive and Myth

We had missed this on our original list, but luckily G, our Sofitel St. James bartender friend, recommended we pop by this spot, so we squeezed this in.  Unfortunately, they were closed the night we were there. However, with the amazing help of the staff we were given an insider view and walk-through of the speakeasy. And just recently, Archive and Myth was named 2026 Venue of the Year by Bar Magazine.

The Entrance

Inside the Hippodrome Casino, right by the Magic Mike Show, you need to find a door.  It’s a black door with patterns around the edges and a very fleur de lis style center with birds, very 1920’s design that has a 44, a 22, and a 33 incorporated into the décor.  This is your entrance to Archive and Myth.  In order to access the speakeasy behind the door, you have to know the passcode.  You have to check their website, as the passcode does change, but it is always about knowing what order of pattern to tap the edge design symbols.

The Experience

Ok, the way to access the room is fun, it’s different, we liked it.  Inside it is very typical speakeasy, black interior, a little dark and moody, yellow-ish bulb lighting, a brick wall behind the bar.  Classic speakeasy cocktails with a twist in half-size and full-size.  And you just know, just feel, how much of a party place this is going to be before and after a Magic Mike show next door!  Definitely beautiful and intimate, but with a screaming energy that wants to show you how on fire it can be.

Spy Bar

This was number one on Peggy’s list of Speakeasy visits for London, and she was very correct in her listing of The Spy Bar.

The Entrance

It’s hidden, that’s for sure.  Even the elevator was not an obvious find.  Downstairs in the basement of the Raffles London OWO hotel (that’s the Old War Office building converted to a gorgeous Raffles hotel).  You’ll first find the elevator, then walk down a long hallway of doors.  Only one door has a little tiny number above it, Room 007.

There is nothing unique or outstanding about this big plain wooden door.  You open the door to this little front office.  Eugene is sitting at his old fashioned typewriter, and it is very 60’s and 70’s office décor.  Eugene is absolutely lovely, until he places a sticker over your phone camera.  That’s right, no cameras allowed.

Fun fact – rooms 006 and 007 were actually used in the early 20th century and functioned as high security storage vaults for identity papers and mission reports of MI5 and MI6 agents

The Experience

Basically, we have no photos to show you how cool this place is.  Everything is James Bond themed, including the Aston Martin above the bar.  Black and white photos, dark wood, and a very intimate and vintage feeling.  The drinks are all classified by Bond villains and characters and movie themed. It was upscale and worth the trip. Service was amazing, Eugene came back in to the room and chatted with us for a bit, and the entire hotel staff at The OWO was incredible and will go above and beyond any expectation for class and service. But you have got to have a reservation for this 5-shaker speakeasy. Get yourself a reservation and do not miss this.

ssn – Spy Bar earned my Favorite Speakeasy in our Best of 2025 Travel Awards. The folks at Raffles were exceptional and the experience was over the top, as I had hoped. It is definitely THE premier experience in London – but not in an unapproachable way. Spy Bar just has an air of secrecy and feels ultra exclusive. Which you know I love. Plus Eugene was amazing – he also landed on our list of Favorite people we met in 2025.

Cahoots Postal

This will forever live in our memories as one of our best speakeasy experiences.  They make it a very immersive experience. We saved the best for last with this speakeasy guide to London.

The Entrance

Just outside Borough Market, you will see the sign for Cahoots Postal. It’s covered in plaques, advertisements and information bulletins, including one that specifically states “Definitely NOT a secret cocktail bar, please stop asking”.   You will want to make a reservation.  We were standing outside, waiting for them to open the door when a man in a 1920’s style outfit peeked out, looked left and right and then at us.  He whispered “you haven’t seen any coppers around have ya?  Didja make sure you weren’t followed?” in a heavy accent.  We told him we had been careful and followed instructions.

We walked into an old fashioned postal office where he asked us if we were there to pick up a “parcel” and asked what name would it be under. Then he called to the back to see if our parcel was ready for pickup.  While he was arranging our entrance the wall telephone rang, Peggy picked it up and it was a very British man congratulating us on entering the scoundrel network and directing us towards the back door. We are very impressed and excited at this point.

The Experience

Through the door at the end of the hallway, we go, and it is busy and chaotic, just exactly as you would expect the backroom of a post office to be.  There are many open slots on the wall where letters are overflowing (do you remember that part in The Grinch, I was dying to start yelling  “jury duty, jury duty, eviction notice, blackmail, pink slip”). The cocktail menu is designed like an old newspaper, with different sections for different drink styles and presentations.

Peggy ordered the P.A.M.E.L.A – which is a whiskey, bergamot, tart (like her) experience which is concocted by an automated “letter arranger”  (Postal Automated Mechanical Electric Letter Arranger, to be specific), and she was given a token to put in the machine when it was time for her pick up.

I ordered from the Air Mail section a fruity Signed, Sealed, Delivered.  The Air Mail section drinks are the coolest!  The server gives you your “pick-up location” and in a few minutes you hear your pick-up being called and all of a sudden a tube is drifting through overhead pipes, down the wall to your station.  Open up the tube (picture the drive in bank tubes), open it and inside is a flask with your cocktail.

The servers were fantastic, the drinks were fantastic, there is no way this is not an absolute 5-Shaker, MUST DO when in London.

There is another Cahoots location – Cahoots Underground. It is Tube themed and located in Soho. We tried to go but it was closed for a private event. From the entrance, it is equally as committed to theme and we are sure it is fabulous!

The Wrap-Up

We missed several places, several we were dying to hit, but I guess that gives us an excuse to go back to London. Anything else, let us know in the comments!

• The MacSmiths
• Evans & Peel Detective Agency
• Bacchanalia
• Scales London
• Sibin
• The Vault

London knows their drinking, they know their pubs, they love their history, and they are crushing the speakeasy scene.  We have heard experts saying speakeasies are overdone, but we are here loving and living for an over the top speakeasy experience.  Thanks for all the entertainment, London!

Other Posts

From this trip

• Paris Speakeasy Guide
• Ghent, Belgium

Other London Posts

• (1) London Day 1
• (2) London Day 2
• (3) London Day 3

Other Speakeasy Guides

• Ultimate Speakeasy Guide – Ratings & Rankings
• Las Vegas
• Chicago
• Austin
• Denver
• Seattle
• Kansas City
• Bali

We spent a couple of weeks researching Antarctica cruises – specifically the luxury cruise lines. Ultimately, we booked the Viking Antarctic Explorer onboard the Octantis. We booked on the last day of the Autumn sale (September 30) for a December 9 departure!  The booking said that they had one cabin left at the lower cabin class, “Nordic Balcony (N2)”.  So, we grabbed it – no time for down payments, no time for second guessing – payment due in full and it was nearly time to get flights booked and medical clearances completed!

Even though we had booked the most inexpensive cabin level, we did not receive an assignment until the week of travel, but it was the top level of the Deluxe Nordic Balcony (DN1) on level 4 (which was really nice!!).

Kelli and I are both expert (some might say obsessive) researchers and while there are a lot of YouTube videos about the Drake Passage and some that tour the Octantis or Polaris ships (they are identical), and the Facebook group for Viking Expedition Antarctica was super useful, I did not see a comprehensive article about the entire expedition experience…so here goes!

Table of Contents

This is a long one so use this handy Table of Contents if you are looking for something specific!

Booking Flights

I have sailed with Viking twice previously – used Viking air once, and planned my own air travel the other.  I prefer to do it myself.  BUT, I am a frequent flyer with airline status.  If you are not particular about a particular airline or just plain don’t want to do the planning, Viking Air is a great option, and they will take care of the details.  This option ensures that if anything goes wrong (missed flights, delays), they will take care of getting you back on track.

Departure

For this expedition, you book your flight into Buenos Aires (EZE) and Viking charters a flight from Buenos Aires (AEP) to Ushuaia.  I do recommend coming in more than one day early.  There are very few flights from the US to Buenos Aires each day and this is typically not the best weather, so delays are not uncommon.  For instance, our Viking charter flight left BA on Tuesday, December 9.  I left Denver on Sunday, December 7, transited through Houston on a redeye and arrived in BA on Monday morning, December 8.

All went well but looking back, I would have come in one day earlier – more than a couple of passengers had luggage that did not make it to the ship.

Return

On the return trip, you absolutely can plan to leave the night that you disembark the ship.  Viking booked the charter from Ushuaia into EZE, so we did not have to leave the airport prior to our return to the States.  But we had about 8 hours in the airport which was not fun.  However, the US airline desks don’t open until 3 or 4 hours before flight time so you may be waiting outside of security for hours before being able to check your bags in.  For whatever reason, the Delta line was obscenely long but our United one was very quick!

Once you check your bags, the security and immigration lines are exceedingly long and hot (Argentinian summer)!  It took close to 1.5 hours to get through.

Medical Exam and Insurance

Viking requires that all guests traveling to Antarctica submit a Medical Assessment and have your doctor complete a Health Evaluation form 30 days before departure.  In lieu of your own doctor, you can use the Viking sponsored Vikand service.  Kelli used her own doctor, I used Vikand.  Both were easy and completed quickly.

Viking also “strongly recommends that every guest purchase travel insurance”.  Insurance means both travel insurance for trip delays, interruptions, and cancelations.  After all, this trip is a very large expense.  Insurance also means medical and evacuation insurance due to the remote and extreme conditions.  If there were a true medical emergency that required helicopter transportation, that expense could be astronomical.

I had enough trip coverage through my credit card, so I opted not to purchase additional.  The medical and evacuation insurance is really up to you and your peace of mind.  I did purchase it because I found an inexpensive policy that covered up to $250,000 of evacuation through Squaremouth.com.  Other advice we received says that a helicopter rescue would be so extreme and unlikely that it is not worth it.

Packing

The most intimidating part, right?  This was truly the most discussed, and probably most searched question we had.  What to pack?  Antarctica is not as cold as you might think; our daytime temperatures, in early December, were 31-37° F and most days were sunny. Also, the ship is quite warm. Looking back now, this is our hindsight recommendation.

Bottoms

• Slacks/jeans (3)
• Joggers, (1-2)
• Wool or thermal base layer (1)
• Leggings (varying weights to also be used as base layers), (2)

Tops

• Shirts/pullovers (4)
• Cardigans/puffer vest (2)
• Base layers, various weights (3)

Misc

• Pajamas
• Swimsuit (1)
• Sneakers
• Slippers
• Dress shoes
• Underwear/socks/wool socks (4)

Outerwear

• Hats (2)
• Gaiters (2)
• Gloves (at least 1 weatherproof but 2 is best). Ski type, not full rubber waterproof

There are caveats.  Neither of us ever wore more than one base layer plus our Viking-provided pants and jacket.  We met people that wore 4 layers and I cannot imagine that.  I promise you, we were never cold.  Ever.  There were days during landings that you will get warm.  Most zodiac cruises, you will not need gloves (of course that depends on weather).  You can do laundry, and you should!

Other

• Minimal toiletries – Viking provides shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, sunscreen, lip balm
• Hydration packets and a water bottle – I live in Colorado and thought I was acclimated to dry, arid atmosphere but we were constantly parched.  Uncomfortably so.  It was weird!  We kept poor Yoshua busy just stocking our room water (Viking provides filtered water in reusable bottles).

What we brought that we did not need

Outdoor boots (we thought the deck might have snow/ice at some point), waterproof bag (we saw this recommended a lot), more than one hoodie/sweatshirt (hoodies are too bulky to wear under the puffer jacket and parka), rain jacket.

We had read that the ship is warm and that you might want a short-sleeved shirt.  We never found it to be warm enough for that.

The other thing to note is that the ship is much more casual than you would expect.  We were quite surprised by some of the outfits.  Even at the premium restaurants.

Buenos Aires

Arrival

If you have opted for the Viking transportation option, they will have plenty of greeters and signs at the airport directing you to buses.  If you are on your own, the best option is to book private transfer through a third-party travel site like Trip Advisor or Viator.  Taxis and Ubers can be scammy coming from the airport, although Ubers are great in town!

If you are arriving just one day before the Viking charter, they will have likely booked you at the Hilton or the Intercontinental.  Both are great options – safe, walkable neighborhoods with concierge desks to help with dinner and entertainment reservations.  If you have extra days on your own, make sure you have booked refundable reservations if you are intent on staying in the same hotel that Viking has booked.  They have been known to switch people around up until the last day and you may find yourself moving hotels.

Accommodations

Upon arrival at the hotel, there will be a Viking welcome desk where you will check in and receive your instructions for leaving luggage outside your hotel door that night, luggage tags, and bus assignment for the next morning’s pickup.  First pickup is around 3:45 am!  There will also be a banquet room with coffee, juice, water, and pastries for those not able to check into their room (typically not available until 3:00 or later) and those that do not want to explore the city.

We had pre-booked a food tour through one of the Buenos Aires neighborhoods using Viator and it was wonderful!  But got back around 9:00 pm which was the time luggage was due to be outside of your hotel room.  Which brings me to another tip, make sure you plan to have travel-sized toiletries, hair products and a toothbrush that you can take in your carry-on (plus anything else you might need before you can access your luggage onboard Octantis around 2:00 pm the next day).  And yes, it is weird to leave luggage outside of your very public hotel door but that is what they do.

Other Helpful Info

The biggest inconvenience we encountered was access to cash (Buenos Aires pesos).  We shouldn’t have needed any except for tips – and most will take US dollars if that is all you have.  Credit cards are widely accepted but for whatever reason, the card readers do not read our metal cards (AMEX Platinum, Capital One Venture X, etc.).  I assume normal plastic cards are fine.  I would normally not recommend the airport currency exchange offices but in this case, just getting a few dollars might be peace of mind.

Ushuaia

Charter Flight

That 3:00 am wake-up call comes early!  When you arrive downstairs, there will be coffee/tea and a light breakfast available while you wait for your bus group to be called.  It is a fairly short drive to the airport, and they will hand out boarding passes at this time.  We were disappointed to see that we were in row 40!

Since it is a domestic flight, the security is easy, and it seems you are allowed to take larger liquids (water bottles).

Our charter flight on JetSmart was fairly full and as we made our way back to row 40.  Our initial disappointment at being so far back soon turned, because those last 3 rows were the only ones not full.  It was nice to be able to spread out a little and have the middle seat open.  They served a boxed breakfast/lunch.

Onboard Experience

Now this is where we had to laugh…you know the average age of the Viking guest is not young…and this is not to be disrespectful of our elders, but…the line for the restrooms!!  From the moment the seatbelt sign went off, there was a line at the front and back restroom for the whole flight (depending on where the flight attendant service cart was).  Sometimes it was 7 or 8 people deep, just standing in the aisles.  It was truly comical.

This went on longer than it should have, we were on our final approach and past the point where the US FAA rules would have required everyone to be in their seats with seatbelts fastened, and the last few people were still standing!

The lady across from us kept looking at us and throwing up her hands like, “what the hell is going on here?”.  We were cracking up!  The flight attendants did finally make the last man sit down in the back row where he was waiting.  It was crazy!

Ushuaia Arrival

Flying into Ushuaia was gorgeous!  The mountains and islands of Tierra del Fuego were so picturesque.  Everything at the airport was super easy, just pick up your luggage and you will be directed onto a bus which will take you through town to the docks.

Ushuaia was much bigger than I was anticipating.  I expected a small port town of a few streets, but it is a decent sized city of over 82,000 people!  There are hotels and resorts, restaurants, breweries, and shopping.

Embarkation

Upon arrival at the ship, you will check in with passports and boarding passes and receive your key cards.  You will immediately be directed to the safety briefing, complete with champagne (or juice).  You will likely not be able to go to your cabin yet, but lunch will be open in the World Café or take the time to look around the ship (many people left their backpacks/carry-ons in the Guest Services area) or go into Ushuaia for some shopping and sightseeing.  There are plenty of Antarctica souvenirs and crafts. Apparently, you can stop at the Tourist Information Office and get your passport stamped, which is fun!

When the rooms are available there will be an announcement – I think they told us it would be 2:00 and it was closer to 1:00.  We arrived in our room to start unpacking and our room steward, Yoshua, stopped by to introduce himself and give us the rundown of the room and amenities.  You’ll learn how to work the warming closet and the Nordic “balcony” window.  He was wonderful throughout the entire voyage!  Also, already hanging in the room were the pre-ordered Viking-provided waterproof pants and expedition parkas plus our life jackets.  We had the chance to try those on to make sure they fit – Yoshua would exchange anything that did not.

Drake Passage

One of the most frequently asked questions: Did you get the Drake Lake (calm waters) or the Drake Shake (rough waters)?  We got the Drake Lake in both directions!  Luckily.  This doesn’t mean that it is perfectly calm sailing, you will still stagger around a little bit so be sure to always “keep one hand for yourself and one for the ship”. It is helpful to note that on the sailing down to Antarctica, the a good part of the Passage is overnight – so nice! On the way back to Ushuaia, it is during the day, which makes for a long day onboard.

I am highly susceptible to motion sickness, and I did perfectly with the ear patches (prescription).  But over the counter meds seemed to work just fine for most.  They do have some meds available onboard if needed.  They also have ginger chews which help quite a bit!

Onboard Restaurants and Bars

Pre-voyage, you were given the opportunity to book a limited number of reservations at the alternative restaurants (The Restaurant and Manfredi’s) – the number was dependent on your cabin class.  Once on board, you will be able to book more if there is availability.  We were able to eat at The Restaurant twice and Manfredi’s three times.  Of the two, we really preferred Manfredi’s – the steak and the chicken parm were both delicious and Kelli loved the Spaghetti Bolognese.  The Restaurant was hit or miss, honestly.  Some dishes were fantastic and some were just ok.  On my previous Viking Ocean voyage, the Restaurant was outstanding, so I was a little surprised by this.

World Cafe

The World Café is excellent for such a large and diverse buffet.  It really is hard to believe they pull that together for 3 meals a day, every day.  There are standards at every meal plus rotating, themed specialties by night.  At dinner, the sushi and fresh seafood bar are always good!  Another favorite is the grill – everything from Tomahawk steaks to filets and lobster tails with Caesar salad to burgers.  And there is always a line for Gelato!  Breakfast and lunch were consistently good – there is just so much variety that you can always find something that hits the spot.

My standout dishes were Tom Kha Gai soup and Carrot soup!  There are limited snacks available during off-meal times and coffee/tea is always available.  Just an observation, the fountain Coke is flatter than we are used to (everywhere in Argentina, not just onboard), so stick to cans if you have a preference.

Aquavit Terrace

The Aquavit Terrace is the bright, pretty bar at the back of the World Café.  There are some dining tables, but it also overlooks the small pool and pool deck with lounge chairs.  We spent one sunny afternoon out on deck with mimosas, just watching the icebergs float by.  In fact, our mimosa-in-hand, fully bundled sunbathing started quite a trend.  Soon the deck chairs were full, and you’d swear it was the tropics!

Mamsen’s

If you miss breakfast in the World Café and need a little something, next door is Mamsen’s.  Mamsen’s is a Norwegian themed buffet with pastries and a few savory dishes.  Breakfast is open until 10:30 am.

The Living Room

The Living Room is located between Mamsen’s and the Explorer’s Lounge on Deck 5.  This small bar is a great place to grab a drink or a coffee and hang around – lots of seating along the windows, and a lot of games and books.

The Explorer’s Lounge

The Explorer’s Lounge is THE gathering place.  The seating (on levels 4 and 5) primarily faces gorgeous views and are the best places on the ship to just sit and watch out the bow (front).  The bar staff is so friendly, they remember everyone and it is a great atmosphere.  The drinks are fantastic.  The nightly entertainment is truly impressive – so much talent.  We did purchase the Silver Spirits package; the price is just so reasonable.

The Hide

The Hide is the “hidden” space in the bow on level 1.  It is absolutely beautiful, easily one of our favorite spots.  It does not have a bar but in the evenings the crew does Expedition Diaries from here and there is a drink cart.  This activity was one of our most enjoyable of the trip – we loved the intimate feel of the room and the stories told by the expedition crew.  The Hide is also where (if you are not feeling too motion sick) you might want to be while crossing the Drake – you get the full effect of the waves including the dramatic crashing over the windows.

The Excursions

Sign up in advance for everything you possibly can!  But then don’t stress about what you cannot get!  We could not get a kayak excursion in advance but were able to sign up once on board.  Just check in with Guest Services early and often to get put on waiting lists.  You should have no problem getting a second SOB, additional zodiac cruises, or kayaks.

The landings are amazing.  All of them.  How often do you get to walk amongst the penguins?  Antarctica has many rules to follow but nothing was strenuous.  Getting in and out of the zodiac might seem intimidating the first time but it is quite easy and the expedition crew is fantastic; they are there to help.  The landings require your waterproof boots to be hosed down (sanitized) and then you step through the boot wash (like a car wash for boots) upon return to the ship,

Zodiac Cruises

The zodiac cruises themselves are wonderful.  The benefit to these is the visibility in all directions and the ability to get very close to icebergs, bergy bits (that is the official term!) and other formations.  The expedition guides are so knowledgeable and tell the best stories! You will also take the zodiacs to landing locations and to transfer to kayaks and the submarine.

Special Ops Boats (SOBs)

The SOBs are fast and fun.  Due to the size and speed, you will be listening to the guide through the QuietVox headset.  This activity is definitely the easiest to board for those with mobility limitations.  It is also the coldest due to the speed and the ability to go further from the ship.

Kayaks

The kayaking was fun and a beautiful way to see some interesting sights.  You transfer in and out of the kayaks from a zodiac, so you are on the water.  The kayaks are definitely challenging to get out of and back in the zodiac.  If you want to kayak, there is training and a physical test that you must attend.  For the kayak, you are provided with a dry suit, you will not wear the Viking-provided pants/jackets/boots.  This is the only time you will show up to Deck A without being fully dressed out.

Submersible/Submarine

We did not do this but spoke to many who did. It is $500 per person and after seeing the photos and hearing the experiences, I have no regrets for NOT doing it. I just don’t think there was a whole lot to see. However, the people that did it really enjoyed it and I did not hear of anyone that wishes they would not have.

Dressing for Excursions

You will be getting fully dressed out in your room before heading down to Deck A for most excursions (the SOB leaves from the Aula lobby on Deck 2).  The first few times that you have to put on all of those layers, it is hot, awkward, and a bit frustrating.  So this is what we recommend. 

Bottoms – base layer, then one other layer (if you choose to, we did not), wool socks, waterproof pants, then boots. The boots are awkward at first but really not that hard to walk in.

Tops – base layer, one other layer (optional, like a t-shirt/thermal), gaiter, puffer jacket (zipped over gaiter), sunglasses on lanyard, phone (if on lanyard), Viking parka, life jacket, hat.  Carry gloves.

Antarctica Destinations & Excursion Recommendations

From what I have seen the itinerary is very flexible and changes often due to weather or the extremely strict policies of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IATTO) that only allow a certain number of cruise ships in an area each day.  But here are our recommendations for which activity to do at each location (should you have a choice).

Fort Point

Our excursions this day were canceled due to wind, but we did have our first whale and penguin sightings so I imagine the zodiac or SOB cruises would be good options.  This was the least snow-covered scenery of our destinations.

Mikkelsen

Absolutely gorgeous!!  Zodiac landing to see whale bones and an old whaling ship. Lots of penguins and a few seals.  We also did our first SOB which took us to see many icebergs and formations.

Fournier

Kayaking was interesting here, we saw some rock formations with small waterfalls.  We also did a zodiac cruise where we got to pick up the ice (you can’t do that on land!) – and of course we licked it!

Lemaire Channel

Also known as Kodak Gap, the most scenic corridor in Antarctica.  No excursions here but the most breathtaking place in the world! We had the most glorious sunny day with water like glass. Spectacular!

Goudier Island/Port Lockroy/Penguin Post office

Do the landing for sure!  At the time of our cruise, Port Lockroy was not yet open for the season.  Make sure you buy your Antarctica postcards and stamps on the Octantis (in the gift shop) so they can be sent from the Penguin Post Office with official postmarks! 

Recess Cove

Do a zodiac landing since this is the first stop on the actual Continent of Antarctica (until this point we had been on the islands).  We had our own personal flag made but the crew had plenty for people to take pictures with.  The cove had beautiful glaciers & bergy bits.  Kayaking here would be incredible; there are steep ice walls and interesting formations.  Quite a bit of calving (ice breaking away and falling from the cliffs).

Brown Station/Paradise Cove

Zodiac landing – beautiful & snowy!  Brown station was also not yet open for the season.  This location had one of the highest densities of penguins, we even got into a penguin standoff because if they cross your path, you have to stop or back up!  They really do smell (as you’ll be warned many times).

Leaving Paradise Cove, we encountered what our expedition leader, Olivia, called Whale Soup.  So many whales surrounding us (like a bowl of soup!) on our way out of the channel.  Both zodiac and SOB excursions here had great success spotting whales.

Then, as we were enjoying the hot tub, Captain took a sharp turn, so we knew something was up.  We hurried out and got dressed because he did a detour for us to see Orcas!  A pod of about 30 of them!  It was truly the most incredible thing that we got to experience on the entire cruise!!  At the daily briefing, the crew was giddy – they said it was one of the best sightings ever.

Danco Island

Zodiac landing – lots & lots of penguins.

Other Activities and Education

Education

Too numerous to name but Viking does an impressive job at giving you the opportunity to be busy as much or as little as you want.  In addition to the daily excursions, there are Citizen Science Experiments, Weather Balloon launches, movies, lectures, and other activities in the Expedition center and the laboratory.

There are tours of the ship, the galley, and the bridge during the crossing of the Drake Passage on the way back to Ushuaia.

Entertainment and Social Events

There are special presentations, events like the Explorers Society social, a BBQ Lunch, and more.

I’ve mentioned Explorer Diaries and Lounge musical entertainment.  Both are fantastic.  One of the most fun activities was a dance party – such a hoot!  Also, I don’t believe our sailing had a Liar’s Club event, but I have seen others talk about it and it sounds like a blast!

There is a wine tasting, a whiskey tasting, and other special events that you can sign up for in Guest Services.

Ship Amenities

There are presentations on future Viking cruises.  I would say that the vast majority of people we talked to signed up for a future cruise (or multiple future cruises)!

Enjoy the Spa and all of its amenities.  But it does get crowded on sailing days.  We loved the open-air hot tub, so relaxing! We also took advantage of a hair treatment during the Drake Passage and it was wonderful! There seemed to be plenty of massage and body treatment appointment slots available and this is a great way to use onboard credit that you might have received. People actually did use the gym but even with the minimal ship movement, that did not appeal to me!

Stay In the Know

We found it is important to attend the daily briefings to keep up with all the activities that are available.  If you cannot attend, the briefings, along with lectures, are available on your cabin television. And the printed Viking Daily is valuable for all information and itineraries. The television also has your personal activity schedule – which is subject to change – so keep an eye on that for added or changed excursions! Flexibility is key!

Antarctica Expedition Conclusion

Overall, I cannot recommend the Antarctic Explorer enough.  It was truly life changing and Viking does it so well!  The Expedition Crew, especially leader Olivia, is exceptional.  I cannot imagine a better staff of professionals.

Antarctica was breathtaking, the wildlife was incredible, and the whole trip was beyond expectations. So do it all, take advantage of everything that the cruise has to offer OR just relax and enjoy the spectacular wildlife and endless views. You cannot go wrong.

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Viking Christmas on the Rhine

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 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, and 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 youngers 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, and 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. 

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
• Chicago
• Austin
• Kansas City
• Seattle
• Paris
• Bali

Please enjoy our annual travel awards and highlights in our Best of 2025 year end wrap-up. Looking forward to more sisbehaving in 2026!

Best Moments

Most Sisbehaving Moment

Best View

Little Sister – My Son Getting Married and Our First Grandchild

Originally, I was going to do the dinosaur footprints embedded in rock we stopped to see in Colorado.  Then I got sappy and realized my best views of the year were far more personal – the marriage of my son to his high school sweetheart, and also the birth of our first grandchild (thanks to our daughter).  Watching my son, so young and so nervous, but so happy will warm my cold heart forever.  But nothing compares to your first grandchild. However, if we are talking non-personally, I’m definitely going with the coolness of the dino prints for the year.

Big Sister – Lemaire Channel, Antarctica

Without hesitation, my best view was the Lemaire Channel in Antarctica. This might be the most beautiful sight I have ever witnessed. Breathtaking is an understatement, it literally brought tears to my eyes (and it wasn’t the cold air).

This channel is nicknamed “Kodak Gap” for its photogenic beauty. We had a sunny, bright day with mirror-like water – it was incredible.

Best Food & Drink

Best Bite

Little Sister – Aux Merveilleux de Fred, Belgium

365 days ago, I never would have guessed my best bite of the year would have been a sweet one.  But here we are. I saw pictures of Merveilleux one morning in Ghent as I was looking for a bakery for morning coffee and pastries. Aux Merveilleux de Fred looked good, and sweet, and I was low-key obsessed (if you know my obsession are usually loud and hyper-focused, this was more, ooooohhhh, I really want one of these).

A few days later I noticed that same bakery had a Brussels location.  We saw them through the window as they were making them, it is basically a disc of meringue topped with flavored whipped cream (chocolate, coffee, vanilla, cherry) then rolled in shaved chocolate.  And O.M.G.  – OMG!  They’re light and sweet without being too sugary, and they are just absolute perfection!  And I drug Peggy into my obsession – we had to go back the next day for more (ps, they also come in large size).  Exquisite is barely the tip of the iceberg in describing Merveilleux.

ssn – she’s right on this one. I was sooo not interested. We were in Belgium and it wasn’t chocolate so I was not into it, it looked like it was all show. I should never have tried it because damn!!! It was insanely delicious. Obsessed – I would fly there tomorrow for another one.

Big Sister – Golden Roosters, Seattle

When we were prepping for our Seattle Speakeasy tour, we were jotting down recommendations from all the foodie creators on IG and came across the Korean Fried Chicken from Golden Roosters in Pioneer Square. Bonus, it was like a speakeasy, it has an unmarked back alley entrance to the bar!

We ordered our chicken but were intrigued with the Bulgogi Creamy Udon menu item. We ordered it and were left staring wide-eyed at each other with how good it was. Just that look we give each other and, “shut your whore mouth”. That is the ultimate compliment.

Even today, 11 months later, when I crave comfort food, it is these noodles! Patti tried to go back and have these before a Mariners or Seahawks game but they aren’t on the game day menu. We just didn’t have time when we were downtown this past fall either. But hopefully soon…

ssn – these creamy udon noodles were the best thing on the menu, and I need to go get some more. But everything else was great there too, and you should definitely go try the chicken that they bill themselves for serving.

Best Brunch

Little Sister – Woo Bar & Kitchen, Seattle

The weekend after my son’s wedding we stayed in Seattle for a baseball game (Go M’s).  I was feeling yucky after something I ate (not drank, shockingly), but I found an Asian fusion spot that had congee.  One thing I love about our trips to SE Asia is congee for breakfast.  So, feeling poopy, this was the one thing that sounded good and we were off in an Uber.  Back behind the Seattle Center, just at the base of Queen Anne neighborhood is where we found the Woo Bar & Kitchen.  A beautiful, open, Asian upscale restaurant that had just started serving brunch.  Gorgeous room, our server was super friendly and informative, and our food was amazing.

I felt so much better after a warm bowl of chicken congee, Peggy had this amazing crab (fresh crab, naturally) omelet and Pat had the steak and eggs.  We did NOT drink, but they did have breakfast cocktails.

Side Note:  we didn’t have a lot of brunches this year, which seems weird as it’s the best meal of the week, but we were focused on building our speakeasy brand.

Honorable Mention

And I really want to give an honorable mention to the Marriott Grand Brussels.  It’s a breakfast buffet included with our room, but like most European buffets it was so much better than anything you get included with a hotel in the US.  The reason they are getting an honorable mention is these amazing scrambled eggs they had.  They were like crack!  I consider scrambled eggs the perfect comfort food, and I do not know what they did to theirs, but it still lingers in my memory of the best scrambled eggs I have ever had.  AND IT WAS AT A BUFFET!!!

P.S. Gordon Ramsey, if you would like to challenge this assessment and make me some of YOUR scrambled eggs, I would gladly take you up on the offer.

Big Sister – Suerte, Austin

If you are going to Austin, everyone will tell you to go to Suerte. And those people will tell you to order the wagyu brisket tacos. Those people will be right.

We were only able to fit Suerte into our schedule for brunch but thankfully, they serve these popular tacos on all menus! My friend Roger was gracious enough to meet us for brunch and with three of us, we really ordered up the menu! We had the Suadero tacos (the confit wagyu), a cold salmon tostada, chilaquiles, and the surprise hit of the meal – refried lentils y crema! And let’s talk about the brunch cocktails…Nitro Carajillos! So good!

Best Sip                                          

Little Sister – Phocific Standard Time, Seattle

The Khoa Was here from Phocific Standard Time (PST) in Seattle.  PST is a speakeasy above a ramen restaurant.  It was late, we were “slightly” intoxicated (interpret your own sisbehaving image of slightly, I admit to nothing).  We decided that we were going to finish off the night with a shot and head for bed.  We were unprepared.  Completely unprepared for what we had done with our Khoa order.

It is a pho-fat washed Jameson shot, served with a pho broth back.  And Pho-ck me!!!  It was amazing!  Absolutely amazing.  That broth, I still drool thinking of the warmth, the earthiness, the clarity. Our lust for it was not subtle, and the warm broth was a great pre-bedtime shot.  And I need to go back for another one.  It was the perfect ending of a fantastic night.

ssn – I second this…I’m sure people got tired of hearing about how good this shot was. And I hope we didn’t let the secret out because we told EVERYONE.

Read our Seattle Speakeasy blog!

Big Sister – Jupiter Supper Club, Austin

We ended up with some time to kill before reservations at Here Nor There in Austin and had been wanting to try Jupiter Supper Club but thought we wouldn’t have time. Happily for us, we made it work. This is a gorgeous space! And you know I love the tagline, Timeless Maximalist Luxury. Two floors of unique decor and vibey elegance. I chose the Osaka Seagrass – a little risky but right in my wheelhouse – sesame vodka, Meletti, nori seaweed, ginger, blood orange and lemon. It was perfection – so savory and umami.

And highly recommend the beet crisps with avocado mousse!

Read our Austin Day Drinking blog!

ssn – she is seriously underselling the beet crisps with avocado mousse; they could have easily been our best bite of the year (and P.S. go to our Seattle Speakeasy blog that is linked to see the video of how much we loved the Khoa Was Here).

Best Speakeasy

We hit a lot of amazing speakeasies this year.  A LOT!  So, this category has some tough competition.  We checked off quite a few 4.5 and 5-shaker venues.  Therefore, we decided the only fair thing to do was divide this category up into Foreign and Domestic (which is kind of a copout for us, but it’s our blog, we do what we want).

Little Sister – Foreign – Cahoots Postal Office, London

My international standout of the year came down to two:  Cahoots Postal in London, and Cloak & Dagger in Canggu, Bali.  Both fantastic concepts:  One post office (obviously) and one serial killer theme.  While the serial killer them speaks to my wheelhouse, I ultimately chose Cahoots Postal for my annual award.

From the first moment to the last, Cahoots sucked us in.  The host peeking out the door asking “have ya seen any coppers lurking around?”, the call for a “package delivery”, full décor with mail slots, and cocktail delivery via postal tubes – all of it, every single thing was done with sheer perfection.  Cahoots is a fully immersive experience and deserves my best speakeasy of the year.

Little Sister – Domestic – Red Headed Stepchild, Austin

If you’ve been following our blog, you already know what I’m going to say (if you aren’t, shame on you, go follow us!!!).  My choice is very obviously Red-Headed Stepchild in Austin. First, they made us work to get the code to the door. The door code is only given to insiders but they are free to share, so you have to find an insider to get the code from to enter this bar (thanks, Paul).

It is horror movie themed.  The extensive cocktail list is all themed into categories.  The bathroom was one of my favorites with a Shining theme, axes for door handles, and there is always a horror movie showing on the tv in the corner.  The service was great.  We met a couple of local industry people that helped make recommendations for us for the rest of our trip, and ran into them later when they were working, which is always fun to be in the know with people when you aren’t a regular. I absolutely loved RHSC.

Read our Austin Speakeasy blog!

Big Sister – Foreign – Spy Bar, London

Like Patti, my choices came down to two – Spy Bar in London and Little Red Door in Paris. This was a really difficult decision and I ultimately went with Spy Bar for the elevated, special experience.

Spy Bar is James Bond themed and is housed in Raffles London at the OWO (Old War Office) – Ian Fleming actually worked in the building. It is a very exclusive experience, with hard-to-acquire reservations required. And not only is it completely hidden, but no photos are allowed – adding to the mystique. I won’t say more other than we were treated like honored guests from the front desk to the Spy Bar door where we were greeted by Eugene (one of our favorite people of the year, see below).

Big Sister – Domestic – Lincolns, Denver

This Denver speakeasy is one of my absolute favorites! So far, I have taken every one of my Denver visitors to it because it is just so enjoyable.

Here is the deal. It is completely hidden, and the people of Denver seem pretty intent on preserving that secrecy. It is rare to see the location outed anywhere. There is no task to get in but the door and entrance are very cool!

Once inside, the theme is…Abe Lincoln. But super cozy and friendly. All drinks are $5, cash only. No frills – there are around 10 liquors, standard mixers, beers on tap, and a barreled old fashioned.

Read our Denver Speakeasy blog!

Best Overall Bar

Little Sister – Connaught, London

One of the classiest places we have ever had cocktails at was the Connaught Bar at the Connaught Hotel in London.  The hotel is gorgeous and high end and I would love to stay here next time (hey, Connaught, give me a call, let’s talk!).

The bar is famous for its martinis.  And you absolutely must get a martini from The Connaught.  It’s prepared tableside, choice of gin or vodka, a choice of bitters, a choice of olive or lemon twist.  It is exquisite! There will be a wait for your martini, because they are ordered by dang near everyone. 

We got super lucky as we got there at opening time, and our server took our order second, so after the guy next to us had his prepared, we were up next.  I heard them tell other tables the wait for a martini was 20-30 minutes, and they walked in minutes after us, but ended up 5 tables back by the time their server took their order.  But it is worth the wait and it is an experience.

Side note – if you are looking for a not so classy recommendation The Nickel Bar in Austin gets a nod, for being the best dive bar of the year if we had that category.

Big Sister – Minturn Whisky Co, Minturn, Colorado

If you have been around me in Colorado this year, you know I have not shut up about Minturn Whisky Company’s Wee Dram and their amazing seasonal speakeasies.

The Wee Dram is an adorable little tasting room is located in Minturn, CO, the cutest town between Vail and Beaver Creek.

Patti and I were seeking out speakeasies around the state this summer and decided to go to the Wee Dram on our way to the Minturn speakeasy in Beaver Creek, mostly because it opens early (noon!!) and we had some time to kill. We fell in love with this place! Plus Kyler was the best and introduced us to their Scottish inspired whisky and their story.

We reluctantly left Minturn and headed to Beaver Creek village to see their seasonal speakeasy. It was so impressive – an 1970s-ish real estate agency. So well done!!

And now, they have just opened a winter season speakeasy – built by hand – that I cannot wait to visit!

Best Experiences

Best Hotel

Little Sister – Sofitel London St. James, London

For this I went with the Sofitel London St. James.  It’s on the higher end of the Accor lines, yes, and it lives up to the Accor standard.  The staff was friendly, the room was beautiful, the lounge, the bar, everything was pretty close to perfect (including its Michelin Star restaurant although we didn’t get to try other than breakfast).  There is a reason people pay the higher prices for these types of hotels.

When we checked in Anna and Jasmine awesomely upgraded our room.  Then out came Jinny to give us a full tour of the hotel, with history and bar and restaurant recommendations – she could be our sister, she should have just moved a rollaway bed into the room with us.

The room was amazing, with tea and turndown service.  All the little personal touches that make you feel like a treasured guest.  The bar at the hotel is fantastic, and the bartenders are all funny and engaging, and apparently Jose is on the list of best bartenders but we never got to meet him (but see our People We Met section about G).

We were settled in like a second home. We discovered GoggleBox on TV when we camped out in bed with a fantastic room service delivery one night. And special shout out for Josue at the bell desk for handling our luggage, getting us taxis, and making sure we were taken care of during our stay.

This place was incredible, but I’m sad we never made it to their afternoon tea, because it looked amazing (and Jinny highly recommended it).

Honorable mention

Honorable mention this year has to go to Populus for their outstanding commitment to sustainability and fabulous staff, AND to Marriott Grand Brussels for those scrambled eggs and also because we checked in the day before my birthday, and the staff noticed, and thought to send up cheesecake for us – it really is the little things that make the biggest difference.

Big Sister – Willow House, Terlingua, Texas

If you have been to Big Bend National Park, or anywhere in West Texas, really, you know it is hot, dry and dusty. But just because it is a National Park doesn’t mean there aren’t some luxury lodging options – there are glamping tents, yurts, star-gazing tents, the coveted cave hotels, and our splurge-find, Willow House.

This little concrete sanctuary in the middle of the Texas desert was heaven at the end of a long, dirty day exploring the area. Absolutely comfort and tranquility.

The Willow House consists of 12 casitas and an absolutely beautiful main house. Each casita has a concrete patio and a sunrise view of the Chisos Mountain Range. The main house has group seating areas, tables, a well-appointed kitchen with storage for each casita, complimentary coffee, espresso, water filling stations. Outside there are a couple of outdoor kitchens, a large firepit area with plenty of seating, and a large pool area with showers and seating but a small pool.

Best Cultural Site

Little Sister – Catacombs of Paris, France

Absolutely amazing!  This was something I always wanted to see but was never a bucket list from me.  It just appeals to my dark and disturbing side.  Our two quick days in Paris was sure to include this tour.  It was everything I wanted, except for the other people there.  Centuries ago, they moved Parisian bodies from the cemeteries into one central location.  And they are now all stacked up in the catacombs.  Tunnel after tunnel, bones stacked along the walls – skulls, femurs, all of it, wall to wall stacks of bones.  It was cool, and completely creepy.  And the horror on Peggy’s face was just a bonus.

ssn – I, too, have always wanted to visit the Catacombs but was not prepared for the unending, vast quantity. It was shocking!

Big Sister – Palace of Versailles, France

A visit to Versailles is something I’ve been trying to do for multiple visits to France, and it was finally happening. Unfortunately, Patti wasn’t feeling well and wasn’t able to come with me so I didn’t get to share the experience with her.

The Palace and grounds were so impressive, as expected. I’m not sure you can be fully prepared for the scale, the grandeur and the opulence. That said, the Hall of Mirrors was everything. And I enjoyed the guided tour very much – super interesting history!

However, even in this shoulder season, the crowds were unbearable. I now understand the appeal of the private stay that includes early/late access to the Palace. I’m so glad to have seen it and it was worthy of my Best of 2025, but will not be returning!

Best Bucket List Checkoff

Little Sister – Swimming with Dolphins, Bali

I did not know this was on my bucket list, but here we are.  I tend to shy away from interacting with animals, I don’t believe it’s our part. But here we were, swimming with the Dolphins in Bali.  I started out hating it.  There were about 20 boats, and I felt like we were interfering with their world, the world we don’t belong in.

Then I was in the water, on a pull rope, when I looked down and thought I saw a school of those silver fish.  Then as they started to swim up, I realized they were all dolphins, and they rose up and jumped out of the water all around me. And it was majestic, and amazing, and I felt this sense of euphoria.  I was surrounded by the beautiful creatures just jumping all around me and playing, and for moment I was one of them.  It was breathtaking.

I will still avoid animal interactions when traveling (especially to those who have never looked into it:  do not ever hold sloths or visit interactive experiences that are not ethically treating the animals – yes, you can google this)

Big Sister – Eric Church at Red Rocks, Colorado

I have been trying to see Erich Church for YEARS! For some reason, each time, something comes up. Four times now, I have had tickets and not been able to go. So when he announced three nights at Red Rocks in July, I set alarms, had my browser ready to go and was ready! I mean, Red Rocks is iconic so this HAD to happen.

I got tickets to night 3 (each night at a different musical style) – Eric Church vs The Guitar. Just him, alone on stage.

And it happened! It was amazing. Even with torrential rains, and delays…the show went on. Hands down, one of the best concerts I have ever seen.

Best Overall

Best Overall Destination

Little Sister – Belgium

This year for me, it was Belgium.  I have always wanted to visit Belgium.  Not only do they make my favorite beer, there was always this draw for me to a smaller country, with a medieval feel, old buildings, culture, and cobblestones.  And Belgium did not disappoint. I was very worried when we boarded a train to Ghent that took us through the seedier side of Brussels and I was skeptical of my dreams.  BUT, it got better, so very much better.

I wish we had time to do Antwerp and Bruges, but just Ghent and Brussels made me happy.  And I loved them.  Belgium is so underrated as a destination, and I am glad this trip got to happen (even if it turns out you can’t brew beer with the Monks or tour inside the brewery inside the monastery, which is bullshit, I want to do that!).

Read our Ghent blog!

Big Sister – Antarctica

My favorite destination is a no-brainer, Antarctica. This was a bucket list, once in a lifetime trip for me and one month after returning, I am still in awe.

I traveled with Viking Octantis and everything about the trip was top tier. The ship, the amenities, the staff and excursions. We had fantastic weather, Drake Lake for both crossings, ate delicious food, and of course, saw amazing wildlife. We saw humpbacks and penguins everyday and a huge pod of about 30 orcas one afternoon. Life changing!

I say once in a lifetime, but I would go back! Is anyone interested??

Best People We Met

This was a great year for meeting people, and we certainly don’t want to play favorites, so we decided to include all of our standout people, and try to do it in order we met them.

Abby – Rich Rich, Seattle

So cute!  We got to Rich Rich as she was opening. So she chatted with us while she was setting up and followed us on socials.  And she was fun (and hungover) and we loved her.

JP – {Unlisted}, Seattle

JP responded to our social media post that we would be there that evening.  When we got there, he had a table set up for us, with a welcome drink.  He was awesome and spent some time chatting with us about the theme and décor (and the fact the elephant moved), he made me one of my best drinks of the year which was a purple lavender vanilla vodka-y drink which I failed to get a picture of.  But we talked about his background and concept, and it was a great visit with him.

Jeff – Blind Big Horn Bar Salida, CO

This was one of our big surprises of the year.  We saw a sign that said cocktails outside of the Rocky Mountain Mercantile in Salida, Colorado. At the back of this upscale Colorado western shop was a beautiful bar.  So naturally we asked if the bar was open.  Jeff is happy to pour a drink, and share with us some infused cocktails a friend of his had made (cherry soaked vodka is my favorite!).

Then we talked about how they came to add a bar to their shop (they were drinking there anyway, might as well put a bar in), their desire to make this a true, hidden speakeasy, and we shared with them our favorite speakeasies and why they stood out, gave them some tips, and shared our backgrounds. We are rooting for Blind Big Horn to become the best new speakeasy in the US and hope to be invited to the grand re-opening party!

David – Eden Room, Austin

David started out by telling us he didn’t have a favorite cocktail on the menu; they were all his babies.  But after we ordered and got to chatting he admitted to having four favorites, and we ordered two of them (hello, round two for the other ones).  The bar was almost empty that night so we had great conversations about our speakeasy experiences, and his life and journey to speakeasies (including having worked at the Franklin Mortgage in Philadelphia, our #1 anticipated speakeasy).

Monica – Watertrade, Austin

Monica doesn’t work for Watertrade, she just happened to be there for a Sake tasting.  Her company, Kome Collective, was in charge of organizing and executing a tour for a group of sake brewers from Japan.  She was amazing, so fun and friendly, and so knowledgeable.  We cannot wait for our New York Speakeasy adventure to reconnect with her (and oh, yes, we will be reaching out to her when we are there).

Paul – Powder Room, Austin

One of our big standouts (and we aren’t playing favorites, but if we were Paul would be at the top) of the year, but especially for Austin.  It’s rare that you meet someone so nice, helpful, funny, so knowledgeable, and still so good looking (yes, Paul, I said it, you are a good looking man).  Please go read our Austin speakeasy blog.

He couldn’t get us into The Powder Room until after the private party, but made sure to get us on the guest list for later, but he did make sure we got the door code to Red Headed Stepchild, such a winner.  The Powder Room is fantastic, and Paul treated us to a VIP experience that was a highlight of our long and extensive bar hop of Austin.

Gianmarco (G) – The Sofitel London St. James Bar

G makes an amazing cocktail.  We visited him multiple times during our London stay.  He was shocked the first time we came back when we said we would.  G recommended a couple places for us and loved our feedback.  He also shared his experience as an Italian immigrant in London, and his desire to travel.  So hopefully, he will reach out to us when he does get stateside, we would love to see him again.

Eugene – Spy Bar, London

You walk into the unmarked door of Spy Bar and you’ve basically walked into someone’s office, only it’s a very old school looking office with a classic typewriter and décor.  This is where you find Eugene.  Who will look surprised that you have found his office.  And if you have a reservation, he will grant you access to The Spy Bar.  He came back a little later to check on us, how our experience was going, and to chat with us about our blog.  He gave us his card, so naturally I gave him ours, and he made a great impact on our visit and our entire experience was enhanced because of him.

Roger – Big Bend NP & Austin

Do you ever meet those people on vacation that you immediately connect with? That was Roger! My friends and I met Roger over breakfast burritos in Marfa, TX! We got to chatting with him and his son and he was delightful! Then we ran into him in the liquor store (bonus!). Then in Big Bend NP, twice! It was fate that we were supposed to be friends! So naturally when Patti and I were in Austin, I reached out to see if he wanted to have brunch. He did and we had such a great visit. He is just an incredible human – warm, funny, engaging, entertaining…I’m not sure he’s ever met a stranger!

Bonus – Favorite Picture (of each other)

ssn – the horrified look on Peggy’s face at the Catacombs! It kills me every time! And my picture OBVIOUSLY needs no explanation.

A recent work trip took me to Brussels, Belgium for the week. There would be plenty of free evenings for exploring the drinking scene of Brussels. But first we decided to spend the weekend prior to my conference in Ghent. This blog was dedicated to drinking, but we also want to give a couple of our favorite finds in Ghent because it was a great weekend and a beautiful city.

Why Should I Go to Ghent?

Well, I’m glad you asked. We debated between Ghent and Brugges. It was a struggle of a decision, but we ultimately decided that Ghent was easier and we could take the train on a day trip to Brugges if we wanted to see it. Side Bar:  the train system in Belgium is super easy to navigate and pretty cheap – make sure you get the Train+ pass, our $3 pass for the month ended up saving us almost $40 by the time we left Belgium.

But I didn’t answer your question, did I? Ghent is a super cute little town, with a fairy tale/medieval feel to it. We stayed right downtown at the Novotel Ghent Centrum, and could walk our way through all the cobblestones, cathedrals, and around the canal system. Yes, I said canals. It’s like mini-medieval Venice.

But Let’s Talk Ghent Drinking

Jiggers

The one everyone says to go to is Jiggers. It WAS a speakeasy, so we were excited to try it. It is no longer considered a speakeasy, although they do have a slightly hidden basement bar. We do not rank or rate this as a speakeasy since it is not hidden and there is no challenge. But the drinks were fantastic, and the service from Gianni was awesome (and he and Eduardo provided us with new ideas for Brussels). We recommend Jiggers as a place you must find for a cocktail in Ghent.

Galgenhuis

On our canal tour we were informed of the smallest bar in Ghent – which used to be the smallest bar in Belgium until they put in a patio. In reliving our theme from Austin at The Smallest Bar in Texas, we decided The Hangman Bar had to happen. Technically called ‘T Galgenhuis, inside is definitely tiny. We loved the small, welcoming atmosphere.

We were not down for the patio, it seemed too common (and chilly), we wanted inside. The inside was full, but then we noticed the second-floor windows from the outside. Up a set of very steep, curved stairs was a loft with seating for 8 people. Bonus was that it overlooked the main floor, so we could people watch. Then our new friends arrived, two couples had taken the train in from their own small town to simply spend the afternoon day drinking. We were friends immediately! The service was great, and everyone was so friendly.

The Alchemist

Crossing the bridge to the other side of the canal, we happened by the cutest sign reading “Forgive me father for I have ginned” and that seemed a good sign that we needed to be there. Turns out it was a bar called The Alchemist. We have a history of finding some amazing bars called The Alchemist (London, Washington DC, Glasgow – The Alchemist is a pretty common bar name). Specializing in Gin and Tonics, it’s a small little hole in the wall, with a great wood-clad, homey feel. A little loud, a serious after work with the co-workers you like kind of place. The bartenders would all know my name and gin preferences if we lived in Ghent, it is definitely a place I would want to be often.

Bar Bonnie

During our walk exploring the city we passed Bar Bonnie. Assuming it was named after our mother, we popped by for a quick espresso martini. We ended up having to have their signature Bonnie cocktail, which was a peach and vodka based spritzer and and fit perfectly into our wheelhouse. Their warm Camembert with rosemary and thyme was amazing with warm sourdough bread as our snack time approached.

Jaggers

Not to be confused with Jiggers, we next found ourselves at Jaggers. Jaggers came highly recommended for a traditional Belgian mussel and frites. They have a great outside heated patio. Inside is a warm ambiance with an upscale, but slightly rock and roll feel (as in, great artwork, subtle colors, but famous artist pictures and guitars on the walls) The service was great, and they were lovely to engage two Americans and their need to speak English. Peggy found her usual Porn Star martini hit the spot, and we then figured out how awesome shrimp croquets are in Belgium – and yes, we snuck in a few more of these around Ghent that weekend.

Pui Piu

We stopped into Piu Piu, which came highly recommended. But it was packed and we didn’t love being cramped, it was the end of our night, we were tired and had quite a few cocktails by this point. However, they do have private karaoke rooms. Then we remembered that we didn’t need privacy to sing. It was a pretty bar, with a great cocktail list. So we recommend it, even though we didn’t have the best experience. But that night there was a big loud table, and we were crowded into a corner. However, it is a cool bar and worthy of you making your own decision.

But then there was ONE Speakeasy

And Peggy was so ready for 1898. We really wanted to stay at 1898 The Post. It looks so amazing. It also looks so fancy. But, as much as we love a luxury hotel, 1898 The Post was a little out of our budget considering the length of this trip. However, The Post is home to The Cobbler.

We are giving this speakeasy credit, as it is tucked away and not obvious. It does not have any task to get in, but reservations are recommended. Hidden behind a curtain, just down the hall from The Post check-in desk, The Cobbler is dark and moody, with couches and barrel chairs, wood, and fantastic old décor.

Our server was adorable, and we happily overlooked the fact he forgot us for a good 20 minutes. But he was an almost exact replica of my youngest child, mannerism, and all, and treated us to a sample of some great Belgian liquor. When I mentioned how much he resembled my son he smiled and said he loved Americans because we are so friendly and willing to share our lives so openly- and he manged to sound genuine about it! We scored a great candlelit table by the window where the server told us we had really scored the best seats in the house. It was a bit of a waste as it was very romantic for two sisters.

Books and Booze, Oh My

Last stop of the night was just across from our hotel. Books and Booze is a bookshop with cocktails. Kind of a mini paradise, actually. It’s set up amazingly so that the booze reflects the book topics. Hard to explain, but see the pictures, shelves of books, with bottles interspersed, and yes, you can get a shopping cocktail. We defaulted to a Gin and Tonic with a local brand called Dada Chapel. The owner was fantastic and fun to converse with. It was one of my favorite stops in Ghent, and I bought a book on the History of Drunkenness.

And all the other cool things in Ghent

So many cool things: street art, canal boat rides, statues, and gothic chapels. The city is very walkable. Let’s talk about some things other than the internet famous stops, like Frites Atelier, which provides fries with plenty of toppings (we will talk about Belgian frites in our Brussels blog).

The Castle of the Count

It’s a great central part of the city. Turns out the count who built it wanted it to be impressive, which it is, but it ended up being too cold to live in or host events in. The highlight: there is a dungeon room!!

Street Art        

One of our favorites was the giant Neptune over what used to be the entrance of the fish market. It was impressive. But then I found my Ghent obsession. . . because you know there had to be one. This was a little bit of a walk, but also creepy AF. It’s simply called Jonas. It is in a local neighborhood, and it is a seriously creepy statue of a little boy hanging on a wall. And I had to see it. Turns out, it was completely unsettling.

Apparently, there are a couple more statues we missed, most specifically The Little Girl with the Knitting Needles was just too far for our tired feet to walk (but too close to respectably Uber). However, we did find the diving lady, but neglected to get a picture, but she was cool in her own right (a simple statue of a naked woman about to dive off a balcony).

Celebrating Brand New Belgians

We also loved the cute little square outside the old fish market entrance called Sint-Veerleplein. It’s also across from Castle of the Count, but the cool thing is that the streetlights in the square connect to the maternity hospitals, and the lights will flash when a baby is born.

A Good Sister Giggle

As long as we are talking fun facts to see, the Marriott runs right along the canal that you should check out. There are two geese inlayed in gold high up on the wall. And they face away from each other. For those not educated on the sleezy side of history, when geese face each other, it’s a sign of romance and love. HOWEVER, when two geese face away from each other it is a sign of a brothel! Yes, we giggled. A Lot.

See all the Cathedrals

Grab a map and go on a walk-about. Saint Bavos, Saint Nicholas, St. Michaels. They are tall and gothic and amazing. Between St. Bavos and St. Nicholas there is a belfry that you can climb for an amazing view of the city. But no worries, there is also an elevator to get you to the top. Also, in this space between Bavos and Nicholas is Sint Baafsplein square and the Stadshal Pavillion, we loved that around the pavilion and down the street towards the square is a tourist route known as the Golden Circle of Ghent there are little gold circles engraved with city scenes depicting the trade route of the middles ages.

And speaking of metal spots in the street, keep your eyes out for some bronze squares. These bronze squares memorialize individuals who were victims of the Nazis. The squares were placed on the last known freely chosen residence of Jewish people before they were deported or killed. They are called Stolpersteine or stumbling stones.

And Finally. . .

Graffiti Alley – an alley down a side street about two blocks off the touristy area. The alley is top to bottom, start to finish, graffiti. It is a very cool street art exhibition (more covered than Freak Alley in Boise, Idaho, if you know it). Oh, and find it, take the walk, and find the chocolate shop smack dab in the middle. Get some chocolate made in house, and a cup of coffee that they import, roast and grind on property.

A Few Post Thoughts

We loved Ghent. It was perfect for a two or three-day addition to a trip to Belgium. Get a waffle, get the frites, get the mussels, get the croquets. Take a canal tour and walk everywhere. It is a great, beautiful, historic, marvelous place. It was borderline dreamy. We never did make it to Brugges, but we also don’t feel like we missed out by focusing our time in Ghent.

Other Posts

• Paris Speakeasy Guide
• Salzburg
• Munich Oktoberfest

I recently was lucky enough to be scheduled for a work trip to Belgium. And you do not go spend a weekend in Belgium without taking the train over to Paris for the weekend, I mean, as long as you have come that far. Naturally, Peggy was not going to pass up this opportunity.

First off, I want to give a fantastic nod to Eliza Dumais for her fantastic 2019 article on drinking culture on Thrillist:  French Drinking Culture, Explained: Are the French Better at Drinking? – Thrillist

I found her humor amazing in researching the French drinking culture and experience. But don’t leave my story yet to go read her experience. We did our research, we loved the French way of wine with meals, and the societal views of bars and pubs. Drinking and the Parisian nightlife are cultural experiences.

In our research there were a couple of speakeasies that came up time and time again. So, we started off with just a short list, which grew once we arrived. We will start with the one of the most popular social media locations:

Lavomatic

The Entrance

Looking for a laundromat? Do not go to Lavomatic. Looking for a cute little hidden cocktail experience, absolutely seek this out. A man sitting out front looking a little sketchy, but no, really more like there to check an ID. Inside the door are some washer and dryers. One of the dryer fronts is fake, find that, push the start button, and open the door front to find the stairs.

The Experience

For our first stop, this was a great way to kick off Paris. Enter up a very dark stairway with neon paintings lead up the curved stairs (France loves their spiral staircases), to a two room second floor. Not a big space, not dark, definitely fun and inviting. Small tables with benches and laundry soap label-covered stools.

The service was friendly, they defaulted to English for us, which was appreciated. We were so happy there, it was a great, upbeat atmosphere. But this was stop number one, so off we had to go. 5 Shakers is a strong start in a new city. Creative entry/challenge and the great service. We were happy we chose well for our first stop in Paris.

Sister Side Note (ssn) – we clearly look like Americans because almost everyone, everywhere, spoke to us in English. We are not proficient in French, but we did study up on the basics. We just never really got the chance to use it.

L’Epicier

The Entrance

You are looking for small middle eastern spice shop. More like a quickie mart than a true spice shop but look for a small space with a shelf in the back full of non-perishable goods. Pulling one of those foods from the shelf is your key to the L’Epicier entrance.

The Experience

Through the hidden door and entry way and then a tall bar in a small-ish room with some booths and short stools, the tables were old stop signs in Arabic looking writing. Yes, these old ladies kept finding tiny stools to sit on, and our knees will thank us for it later. The room was pretty fantastic in a close, intimate way (we had to borrow the pic from their website, below). Lots of glass lanterns hanging from the ceiling gave it a back alley, middle eastern bar feel – which you know we are here for.

ssn – more tiny milk crate stools (see pic below)! What is up with this?

I opted for the tiki bar feel of the Rhum Erection. Yes, partly for the name, but also because it came in a ceramic skull. Having just visited the Paris Catacombs that day, I was feeling the day of the dead vibe. Peggy had the Basilic De Ma Teta, a basic gin and Saint Germain lovely and bright drink. It was Halloween, so the servers were feeling the festive vibe, and they were loving the night, which added to our love of them. This is getting a 5-shaker rating, as they checked every box that we like to see.

Candelaria

The Entrance

Look for the small taco shop on a side street, how American of the French Speakeasy scene. But it’s not quite that simple.

We walked up to a line out the door and thought our chances of getting in were slim. But the cute lady out in front and her Day of the Dead face paint asked us “tacos or cocktails”? We said “cocktails”, she walked us straight back along the taco counter to the plain door at the back, and in we went. Yes, the big line out front was people waiting on food. And that is impressive in a food city like Paris.

The Experience

The plain white door leads to a short hallway and into a dark, smokey feel bar (a lot like I felt at Trona in Austin, only darker). We scored two bar seats, sorted through the tequila and mezcal selections but settled on a gin cocktail with little peach oil float on top. I’d love to tell you all about it, except Peggy agreed that we needed some chips and guacamole. And that was the end of all reason. Who knew Paris could do guacamole. But I am telling you, it was among the best guac I have ever had! And now we figure out why there is a line outside for food.

Loved our bartender. We really started to discover the Paris server vibe. First off, English is their second language, and they try hard to accommodate us – but also, they are friendly and pleasant but not chit-chatty like in the USA. They seem to want to honor your experience and leave you alone to enjoy your evening. They were friendly when we engaged, but they never engaged on their own. So, our scoring on service is a little less strict than we judge our domestic bars. But still, Candelaria is yet another 5-shaker rating for Paris.

The Little Red Door

This was a fun last-minute find. While Peggy was touring the Palace of Versailles, I was lazing about a hotel room struggling to stay awake when I found The Little Red Door on a Google search and was instantly annoyed that we had been a mere two blocks away from this doorway when we hit up Candelaria.  But do you know what that means? A chance to go get tacos after a cocktail!

ssn – Yes! We did go back to Candelaria for tacos and more guacamole. It was fantastic!

The Entrance

We walked right by it. We had to turn around and walk back. There is a little alcove painted with blue and white stripes set back with a (duh) red door. True to its name, stepping up to the red door, it is, in fact, little. As in barely even 5 foot tall (1.5 meters). There was no sign identifying what it was, which we love. There was a printed sign on the left wall that said there was limited space and someone would be with you shortly.

The Experience

There had been a group of three men lingering when we arrived, but they seemed a little confused and walked away moments later. But we waited to see what would happen. The red door has a decorative window that you really couldn’t see through. We assumed someone was keeping an eye out to see when someone showed up. And then! AND THEN, the panel wall to the left of the little red door opened and we were welcomed in.

Surprise! We entered a dimly lit room – romantic mood lighting more than dark and gloomy. We scored a table on the second-floor balcony overlooking the speakeasy. Great place for people watching, including the snooty couple next to us, unattached couple at the end table, and the fun-loving French couple across the aisle from us.

It’s a little too dark to read the cool menu at the table center – but it’s super cute. Almost like a floral arrangement where each leaf is a drink with descriptors. The server was super friendly. I had to ask why Little Red Door had suddenly dropped off the 50 Best Bars list two years ago. He was so nice about it and said they had changed directions and were rebuilding, and that it was his first day, so I was overly impressed he handled my question so well.

Each drink comes with a well-conceived accoutrement. My drink came with an amazing, sharp slice of parmesan; Peggy’s came with a confit shitake mushroom (which honestly looked like snot on her glass, but she loved it). Everyone’s drinks looked fantastic.

And Little Red Door is not only getting our 5-shaker rating, but also making our Top 10 Best Speakeasies list, and our vote to return to the 50 Best Bars list!

ssn – I more than loved my drink. It is a strong contender for Sip of the Year. That confit shitake looks gross but it was delicious! Completely unexpected.

Moonshiner

This is a hard one for us. I’ll explain below. But we keep forgetting “what that other bar was”, which is ridiculous, because it was very memorable. I think we are thrown by a very Parisian place having such a low-brow American name, lol.

The Entrance

Find Vito’s pizzeria (Pizza da Vito, en Francais), a working, open pizza restaurant, which smelled absolutely amazing. Enter, give nod to the man making the dough, and continue back to the walk-in refrigerator door at the back. The door opens into what looks like a storage room, but keep going, there is a second door that opens up to Moonshiner.

The Experience

Peggy and I disagree about the décor. I got a very 1920’s Art Deco Vibe, she felt very 1970’s about it. Could the 1970’s be emulating the Art Deco 1920s? Possibly. The staff was in pinstriped dress shirts, ties, and arm garters, very upscale 1920’s garb.

The cocktails were very, what we had discovered, Parisian speakeasy – a prohibition era cocktail menu with some weird ingredients thrown in that we had to ask what they were. They were good, they were strong, we were happy at that bar.

The staff were the real winners. One was from the US, one was Australian, so English was freely spoken, which made us feel more at home in the middle of Paris. And they all seemed to genuinely love their job and each other. The background music was all funky, alternative but pop American hits, and a couple of servers danced and sang along. It felt good in there (hence my earlier comment about not knowing quite why we keep forgetting this place happened, we loved it).

Again, Paris, coming in with another 5-Shaker winner. There are some great speakeasies to be found in this city!

No Entry

No Entry came with great pre-reviews, but it almost didn’t happen due to opening time and location farther away from our other plans. But we pushed through and made it happen. Once again, we showed up and there was a line out the door, one for reservations and one for walk-ins. Luckily, Peggy thought to ask the hostess for entry, and much like Candelaria, the line was for food. If you have not heard of it, Pink Mamma is a pretty well-known must-try spot in Paris.

The Entrance

No Entry is hidden in the basement of Pink Mamma. So, find the curved stairs to the left just as you enter the restaurant. Down the stairs, and down the hall to the freezer door marked with a “No Entry” sign – not like a bar sign, but like a warning sign.

The Experience

Ok, great feel immediately upon walking in. A little bigger than other speakeasies we visited in Paris. Pink lighting, a lighted, mirrored bar to the right and an L-shaped room to your left. Low bench seating with little stools surrounding low tables. They also had these great giant orbs of glass filled with liquid and plant life lit up around the area. Then a server walks by us with a glowing fishbowl. Now, we are ready for No Entry.

We end up at the bar, which we love. Our server is cute, and nice, and there is the hustle and bustle behind the bar. But everyone is nice and greets us. And lots of glowing fishbowls are being made. I love the almost comic book/magazine feel of the drink menu.

The Napolicious was a solid version of the espresso martini with amaretto and limoncello. I loved that it was served with a side of brioche soaked in limoncello that came with it. Peggy, luckily, got the glowing fishbowl and loved it. We did score this only 4.5 Shakers, simply because of a lack of well-developed theme; however, it could also be that we simply could not justify giving yet another 5-shaker in this city and thought maybe we were being too easy on Paris.

Overall

We knew Paris was going to be impressive. It has a great reputation, and we were excited to work our way through the city (yes, work. Drinking is work, lol). Our one hiccup was the traffic, so planning and staying within certain areas will help your adventure. Cabs and Bolts are plentiful, but you will spend way too much time in a car if you try to get across town too often.

But the drinking scene is strong. The speakeasy game is competitive. And we were extremely impressed. We have a few more spots that we weren’t able to hit, I guess that means we have to go back for more, and soon!!!

Other Paris Speakeasies

Here is a list of other speakeasies on our radar that we did not have time to get to. If you have been or have other recommendations, drop them in the comments.

• Gentlemen 1919 – we stopped by this one but they were closed for a holiday. The exterior is beautiful and we would love to go back.
• Rehab
• Mobster Bar

Other Speakeasy Guides

• Ultimate Speakeasy Guide – Ratings & Rankings
• Las Vegas
• Chicago
• Austin
• Denver
• Kansas City
• Seattle