Speakeasy bars are cloaked in mystique. This veil of mystery is baked into the word itself, which means to speak softly so as to not draw attention. They were a mushrooming concept of the Prohibition era in the United States around 1920-1933, when getting one’s hands on hooch or a tipple of any sort was out of the question. This led to some clandestine drinking in forbidden haunts, adding to the mantle of secrecy.
Some bars have taken this tradition forward by creating dimly-lit, nondescript entrances which lead one to a watering hole that recreates that same, sepia-tinted ambience. Here are some speakeasy bars around the world that have preserved this air of exclusivity by having disguised doors or password-only entrances.
These speakeasy bars have taken the hidden bar theme to imaginative, new heights. And, while these drinking establishments thrive without any overt signage or advertising, they have aced that one potent marketing vehicle, the trusted word of mouth communication, always works in their advantage. Mixed, of course, with a sense of mystery and an air of drama.
Paradiso is a speakeasy hidden behind a fridge door in Barcelona. In reality, this not-so-secret bar is beloved for its over-the-top, theatrical cocktails. There are many cocktails that are noteworthy, but the Paradiso Revival Negroni is unique, earthy, and umami-rich. Inspired by mushrooms, the drink looks like a giant, shimmering red mushroom with a wide head. Served in a glowing mushroom-shaped glass, this cocktail is inspired by bioluminescent fungi. The Mediterranean Treasure, served inside a conch shell cozied inside a treasure chest, is the definitive showstopper. Imbibing sea-breeze and terra firma all at once, this drink has fino sherry, elderflower liquor, cilantro leaf, honey, egg white, oyster leaf, lemon, all in the crisp base of Ketel one Vodka. Sweet, salty, tart and umami in every sip.
28 Hong Kong Street, Singapore, is one of the most-awarded bars in Asia. It has a discreet entrance via a nondescript, 1960s shopfront façade, with no visible signage. Going strong for 14 years now, this bar was the pioneer of speakeasy bars in Asia, and certainly the first one in Singapore to set new standards with their ‘nice ice’ programme that showcases uncompromising focus on ingredients, preparation, and craft.
On my visit, I loved the expertly crafted drinks and a no-fuss but stylish setting. My favourite cocktail has to be the martini-style Femme Fatality cocktail with gin, chrysanthemum, absinthe, Benedictine and honey vermouth, which is both, complex and elegant.
Handshake Speakeasy is a celebrated cocktail bar in Mexico City, located in the Juarez neighbourhood. This feted drinking destination was crowned The World's Best Bar, as well as the best bar in North America, by The World's 50 Best Bars in 2024. The décor draws inspiration from The Great Gatsby with its dim lighting and moody tones. Expect a '90s nostalgia meets creative cocktails vibe. Try the clarified piña colada or the Three Sips Martini, designed to be relished in three distinct sips that morph in flavour profile.
The Blind Barber is hip and happening, but hardly seems like a bar at all! Because it truly is a barber shop—booths and all! Located in Culver City, Los Angeles, the bar transforms from a barber shop during the day into a lively cocktail spot at night. Try their signature Good Boy cocktail with whiskey, strawberries, sage, lemon, amber agave, and orange zest. They have a grilled cheese menu, so go-ahead and pair the cocktail with one that has Spanish chorizo, manchego and smoked bacon.
Please Don't Tell is an iconic bar in Manhattan's iconic East Village. Located behind a phone booth, this bar is known for winning the James Beard Award for its bar programme, as well as hot dog collaborations with chefs from New York City. Try the cocktail named Calypso, which is a delicious rum cocktail with banana-infused cachaça, coconut water, and falernum. And, if you’re looking for one of the golden oldies, it has to be their Shark cocktail, a spirit-forward, complex drink that was part of the original menu, two decades ago. People describe this butter-infused rum as a nuanced drink, with layers—rather waves—of flavour.
Moonshiner, Paris takes you back 100 years. Once you find the metal door of the walk-in fridge inside Pizza da Vito restaurant, you will step into a cosy space straight out of old storybooks. Art deco vibes add to the moody dimness. They have a special menu with ingredients from the French terroir. A signature cocktail from Moonshiner is Petite Planète, a bright yellow coloured libation with herbal notes and a hint of mint and celery.
Panda & Sons is a well-known, globally recognised speakeasy cocktail bar located on Rose Street in Edinburgh, Scotland. Famous for its innovative drinks and signature freezing techniques, this place has been on every cocktail connoisseur’s radar since they opened in 2013.
Everyone knows that the world of mixology abounds with elements from the mad scientist’s lab. The folks at Panda have taken it up a notch. The new menu, Transcend, is divided into sections called Switching, Sous Pression, Freeze Drying, and Cryo-Concentration, exploring and traversing the rocky terrain of sub-zero freezing. Their potent Coconut Daiquiri with rum, Thai coconut milk and lime, is clarified and delicious.
Lavomatic, Paris, is a secret bar hidden behind a laundromat, accessed via a button and staircase. Extremely well disguised, at first glance one can only see washing machines and tumble dryers. But, those in the know will find a small button that reveals a staircase leading to the first floor. Upon entering, a cosy little apartment with cheery colours greets you, and the ace mixologists do a fine job in mixing up inventive cocktails, though it could get a tad cramped. Try their Parisian Sunset, a layered and sensorial cocktail featuring Aperol, sparkling wine, and a splash of orange liqueur.