Hidden speakeasies offer some of the most unique bar experiences. Here’s how to find and enjoy these secret venues like an insider.
What Makes a Speakeasy?
Modern speakeasies draw inspiration from Prohibition-era secret bars, featuring:
- Hidden or disguised entrances
- Prohibition-era aesthetics
- Craft cocktail focus
- Intimate, exclusive atmosphere
- Reservation systems or entry codes
Common Hiding Spots
Behind False Fronts
Look for bars hidden behind:
- Phone booths
- Bookcase doors
- Restaurant kitchens
- Laundromats
- Coffee shops
- Tailor shops
In Plain Sight
Sometimes the entrance is obvious but unmarked:
- Nondescript doors
- Alleyway entrances
- Basement stairs
- Rooftop access
- Back of existing bars
Signs You’ve Found One
Telltale Clues
What to look for:
- No signage or minimal marking
- Velvet ropes or door host
- Password requirements
- Reservation-only policy
- Vintage or themed decor visible through windows
- Word-of-mouth reputation
How to Gain Entry
Research First
Do your homework:
- Google “speakeasy bars near me”
- Check Instagram location tags
- Read local blog recommendations
- Ask bartenders at other venues
- Use Hopfly to discover hidden gems
Making Reservations
Many require advance booking:
- Book 1-2 weeks ahead for weekends
- Call directly, don’t rely on apps
- Arrive exactly on time
- Dress appropriately
- Follow any specific instructions
Password Culture
Some venues require passwords:
- Usually found on their website or social media
- Changes regularly (daily or weekly)
- Part of the experience and exclusivity
- Don’t be intimidated, it’s meant to be fun
Speakeasy Etiquette
Dress the Part
Appropriate attire:
- Business casual minimum
- Vintage-inspired encouraged
- No athletic wear or shorts
- Nice shoes required
- Check specific venue dress codes
Behavior Expectations
Respect the atmosphere:
- Keep voices at conversational level
- No rowdy behavior
- Appreciate the craft
- Don’t take flash photography without permission
- Tip generously (20%+)
What to Expect Inside
Ambiance
Common features:
- Dim, moody lighting
- Period-appropriate decor (1920s)
- Jazz or swing music
- Intimate seating arrangements
- Antique furnishings
The Menu
Craft cocktail focus:
- Classic prohibition-era drinks
- Seasonal specials
- House specialties
- Limited beer/wine selection
- Premium spirits only
Ordering Like a Pro
Understanding the Menu
Cocktail categories:
- Spirit-forward (Manhattans, Old Fashioneds)
- Sours (Whiskey Sour, Margarita)
- Long drinks (Gin & Tonic, Mojito)
- Hot cocktails (Hot Toddy, Irish Coffee)
Communicating Preferences
Talk to your bartender:
- “I like/don’t like…”
- Mention flavors you enjoy
- Indicate spirit preferences
- Ask about house specialties
- Be open to recommendations
Price Considerations
What to Budget
Expect to pay:
- $15-25 per cocktail
- $50-100+ per person total
- Cover charges at some venues
- Premium pricing justified by quality
Worth the Cost?
You’re paying for:
- Exceptional ingredients
- Skilled mixology
- Unique atmosphere
- Intimate experience
- Exclusivity
Famous Speakeasies by City
New York
- PDT (Please Don’t Tell) - Behind hot dog shop
- Employees Only - Classic West Village spot
- The Back Room - Actual Prohibition-era location
- Attaboy - Unmarked Lower East Side gem
Los Angeles
- The Varnish - Hidden in Cole’s
- No Vacancy - Victorian mansion aesthetic
- The Walker Inn - Inside the Normandie Club
- Good Times at Davey Wayne’s - ‘70s-themed secret bar
Chicago
- The Violet Hour - Behind wooden doors
- The Drifter - Under the Green Door Tavern
- Lost Lake - Tiki speakeasy
- The Office - Inside the Aviary
San Francisco
- Bourbon & Branch - Reservation and password required
- Wilson & Wilson - Hidden in the Bourbon & Branch
- Tradition - Unmarked door in Chinatown
- PCH - Behind Onsen spa
Using Technology to Find Them
Hopfly Benefits
Track your discoveries:
- Mark speakeasies you’ve visited
- Share secret spots with friends
- Earn special badges
- Rate your experiences
- Build your collection
Other Resources
- Instagram hashtags (#hiddenbars)
- Atlas Obscura
- Eater city guides
- Reddit city subreddits
- Local food blogs
Making the Most of Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Best times to go:
- Weekday evenings less crowded
- Early arrival (6-7 PM) easier entry
- Late night (after 11 PM) more atmospheric
- Avoid peak Friday/Saturday without reservations
What to Try
Don’t miss:
- House specialty cocktail
- Classic done their way
- Bartender’s choice
- Seasonal offerings
Creating Your Own Speakeasy Tour
Planning a Route
Build an adventure:
- Research 3-4 venues
- Book reservations at all
- Plan timing (2 hours per venue)
- Arrange transportation
- Have backup options
Group Considerations
Best group size:
- 2-4 people ideal
- Maximum often 6-8
- Some venues have minimums
- Call ahead for large groups
Speakeasy-Hopping Tips
Be Flexible
Stay adaptable:
- Have backup venues
- Don’t overbook your night
- Accept wait times gracefully
- Be ready to explore
Document Respectfully
Photography etiquette:
- Ask before taking photos
- No flash photography
- Respect other patrons’ privacy
- Focus on drinks, not people
- Share responsibly on social media
Red Flags
Fake Speakeasies
Watch out for:
- Overly commercialized
- Poor cocktail quality
- Inattentive service
- Gimmicky atmosphere
- Bad reviews about authenticity
The Future of Speakeasies
Modern Innovations
New trends:
- Virtual reality elements
- Rotating themes
- Pop-up locations
- App-based reservations
- Hybrid restaurant-speakeasies
Making Your Night Special
Special Occasions
Perfect for:
- Date nights
- Anniversaries
- Bachelor/bachelorette parties
- Birthday celebrations
- Impressing out-of-town guests
Anniversary Visits
Build tradition:
- Return to favorites annually
- Try seasonal menus
- Bring different friends
- Track your cocktail favorites
Becoming a Regular
Building Relationships
Get recognized:
- Visit regularly
- Tip well
- Be respectful
- Learn staff names
- Recommend to others
Beyond the Big Cities
Small Town Speakeasies
Don’t overlook:
- College towns often have gems
- Tourist destinations hide treasures
- Unexpected cities have scenes
- Use Hopfly to discover anywhere
Finding and experiencing speakeasies is one of bar hopping’s greatest pleasures. Use Hopfly to track your hidden bar discoveries, collect exclusive badges, and share your favorite secret spots with fellow adventurers. Start your speakeasy journey today!