Speakeasies were secret bars during the Prohibition era in the United States, where alcohol was illegally sold and consumed. Today, they have made a stylish comeback globally, blending mystery, vintage charm, and creative cocktails. Modern speakeasies combine hidden entrances, themed interiors, and exclusive atmospheres, making them favorite destinations for cocktail enthusiasts and curious travelers. Here are ten unique speakeasies around the world that stand out for their design, history, and drinks.
1. PDT (Please Don’t Tell), New York City, USA
Located in Manhattan’s East Village, PDT is accessed through a vintage phone booth inside a hot dog shop. This secret entrance maintains the spirit of the original speakeasy with dim lighting, plush seating, and expertly crafted cocktails. PDT is famous for its inventive drinks and carefully curated menu. Guests must call the phone booth to request entry, adding to the exclusive experience. The bar has won numerous awards for its creative approach to classic cocktails.
2. The Back Room, London, UK
The Back Room in London is a genuine Prohibition-style speakeasy with a secret entrance behind a toy shop facade. The interior features vintage furniture, antique decanters, and hidden compartments. What sets it apart is that drinks are served in teacups, mimicking the need to disguise alcohol during Prohibition. The bartenders specialize in classic American cocktails with a British twist. The atmosphere evokes the 1920s while embracing modern cocktail artistry.
3. Le Syndicat, Paris, France
Le Syndicat reinvents the speakeasy concept in Paris with a focus on French spirits and local ingredients. Hidden behind a graffiti-covered facade, it offers a lively ambiance and inventive cocktails inspired by French culture. The bar supports small distilleries across France, showcasing lesser-known spirits. Le Syndicat combines raw urban style with high-end mixology, providing an authentic and fresh experience for visitors.
4. Bar Benfiddich, Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo’s Bar Benfiddich is a small, intimate speakeasy run by a master bartender who crafts unique herbal cocktails using his own tinctures and infusions. The entrance is unassuming, tucked away in a quiet neighborhood. The bar focuses on creativity and personalized drinks, blending Japanese ingredients with classic techniques. The dark, cozy interior invites guests to relax and enjoy thoughtful conversations over artfully made cocktails.
5. The Violet Hour, Chicago, USA
The Violet Hour in Chicago offers a luxurious take on the speakeasy experience. Its unmarked facade leads to an elegant space with soft lighting, hand-blown glassware, and velvet seating. The cocktail menu changes seasonally, featuring innovative recipes made with fresh, local ingredients. The bar prioritizes craftsmanship and hospitality, making it a top destination for cocktail lovers seeking a refined atmosphere.
6. Operation Dagger, Singapore
Operation Dagger is a minimalist speakeasy hidden in a back alley in Singapore’s Chinatown. Without signage, it relies on word of mouth and secrecy. The bar’s design is sleek and industrial, with an emphasis on technique and flavor. The bartenders use unusual ingredients like fermented fruits and rare spices to create complex cocktails. The intimate setting encourages connection and discovery, perfect for adventurous drinkers.
7. 28 HongKong Street, Singapore
Another gem in Singapore, 28 HongKong Street blends speakeasy style with a modern bar experience. It has no visible signage and is located behind an ordinary door on a quiet street. The interior mixes vintage decor with contemporary touches. The cocktail list pays homage to classic recipes while incorporating Asian flavors. The bar has received multiple international accolades for its quality and atmosphere.
8. La Factoria, San Juan, Puerto Rico
La Factoria is a historic bar in Old San Juan with a lively and eclectic vibe. While not hidden in the traditional sense, its unassuming entrance leads to a maze of rooms and bars. The speakeasy spirit lives on through creative cocktails inspired by Puerto Rican culture and rum heritage. The bar is a social hotspot featuring live music, making it an exciting destination for locals and tourists alike.
9. Hanky Panky, Bangkok, Thailand
Hanky Panky is a speakeasy known for its exclusivity and playful secrecy. To enter, guests must make a reservation and receive a password. The bar’s interior combines vintage charm with modern elegance, offering expertly mixed cocktails with surprising ingredients. Located in a quiet area of Bangkok, Hanky Panky provides a hidden oasis for cocktail aficionados seeking privacy and innovation.
10. 69 Colebrooke Row, London, UK
Located in Islington, 69 Colebrooke Row is one of London’s earliest modern speakeasies. It offers a stylish yet cozy environment with a focus on craftsmanship and storytelling. The cocktail menu highlights bespoke creations with seasonal and rare ingredients. The bar operates on a first-come, first-served basis, maintaining the speakeasy tradition of exclusivity without compromising quality or experience.
