What is a Speakeasy?
A speakeasy is fundamentally a venue designed for clandestine operation. Originally, during the U.S. Prohibition era (1920–1933), the term referred to illicit bars where patrons had to "speak easy" (quietly) to avoid detection by authorities.
Today, speakeasies are fully legal, but they keep the thrilling sense of mystery! They are known for their hidden entrances—like a phone booth, a coffee shop, or a laundry room and their intimate, dim-lit, vintage atmosphere. They maintain the aura of exclusivity and usually specialize in elevated cocktail service.
Please Don't Tell
113 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009
Mon-Thu: 5PM-2AM | Fri-Sun: 4PM-2AM
Located in the East Village, the entrance to this legendary spot is through a vintage phone booth inside Crif Dogs, a popular hot dog joint.
Bathtub Gin
132 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Sun-Thu: 5PM-2AM | Fri-Sat: 5PM-3AM
Positioned behind a modest coffee shop facade in Chelsea, Bathtub Gin evokes the authentic Prohibition aesthetic. The venue offers a dimly-lit, romantic setting.
The Back Room
132 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Sun-Mon: 6PM-1AM | Tue-Thu: 6PM-2AM | Fri-Sat: 6PM-3AM
Distinguished as one of the few speakeasies that genuinely operated during the 1920s, The Back Room upholds tradition by serving beverages in teacups and paper bags.
Patent Pending
49 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
Sun-Wed: 5PM-12AM | Thu-Sat: 5PM-3AM
Disguised as Patent Coffee near the Flatiron District, this bar occupies a former radio factory. After hours, a concealed door leads guests into a stylish, subterranean space.
Attaboy
134 Eldridge St, New York, NY 10002
Mon-Sun: 5PM-3AM
This Lower East Side bar is extremely discreet, featuring no signage and an unmarked metal door. Attaboy’s talented bartenders craft truly bespoke cocktails tailored specifically to each guest.
