Known for their timeless and enchanting ambience, speakeasy bars used to be nothing less than secret havens for merrymaking purposes. A bar culture that is often considered synonymous with a rebellious spirit and forbidden affairs, speakeasy used to be a secret back in the day. Hidden behind a concealed environment, these bars gave out a charm and appeal like none other. Known for their enigmatic ambience, these hidden bars are not so hidden anymore. Having developed anew in the recent years, speakeasy bars have now become symbols of status, with unique aesthetics and meticulously crafted menus that offer a high end drinking experience. Boasting of themed decors and extravagant lighting, the best speakeasy bars in the world evoke a vintage atmosphere. Bars that have become quite the staples in the recent years, here are some of the best speakeasy in the world that you should definitely be aware of.
What are speakeasies?
A speakeasy simply refers to a hidden or a secret bar, situated in covert establishments and concealed from the mainstream.
The origin of speakeasy bars goes back to the American Prohibition era, when alcohol production, distribution and consumption were banned. As a result the speakeasy establishments began to be created in various locations, and were camouflaged since they sold alcohol illegally back in the time. These were hidden establishments, which often required secret passcodes to enter. Areas that captivated and fascinated the people, a speakeasy gradually became a place of entertainment and relaxation for many, where they could enjoy alcohol and music away from all the restrictions of the outside world.
Today, the speakeasy bars across the world replicate the same style, operating legally and openly where people can have a good time.
Here are some of the best speakeasy bars across the world that offer a unique experience to their guests
Handshake- Mexico City
Tucked away in the town of Colonia Juarez in Mexico City, Handshake is a well known speakeasy that is two level bar, portraying a chic and futuristic ambience. Among the best speakeasy bars in the world, Handshake has a glossy black decor, with shiny and elegant surfaces made of brass and marble, owing its influence to the mid 20th century. With R&B music playing throughout the night, this speakeasy also features a false wall that is completely immersed in graffiti. Their Mushroom Old Fashioned and Mexi-Thai are among the top suggestions that are a must try from their creatively crafted drinks menu.
Deep Dive- Washington
Located in Downtown Seattle, Deep Dive is a speakeasy that is a vintage style lounge inspired by the marquee hotel bars from around the world. Among the best speakeasy in the world that features some truly unique artwork, vignettes and other eye-catching objects created by a local artist named Curtis Steiner, this speakeasy is low lit and also displays several sculptural floral arrangements which only adds to the intrigue of this place. Featuring a menu that is known for their wine and cocktail pairings, the Sloe and Sour, Low and Ramon’s Margarita are among the popular items from the drinks menu here.
BackDoor 43- Italy
Situated in Milan, Italy, the BackDoor 43 is a unique speakeasy that claims to be the smallest bar in the world. Covering an area of only 13 square feet, this speakeasy bar almost feels like entering a walk-in closet. Offering an intimate setting that only holds up to four guests at a time, you would ideally need to make a reservation with the help of a key and a secret password to be here. Even if you don't have a reservation, don’t worry and simply knock on the door to place yourself a to-go order.
28 HongKong Street- Singapore
An establishment that was crowned to be one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2016, 28 HongKong Street is surely among the best speakeasy bars in the world. A sophisticated space that is tucked away behind an unmarked door, this speakeasy is situated in a tiny street in Chinatown. A speakeasy bar that has now become a well known space mainly through word of mouth, reservations are an essential if you intend to spend time here. Offering high quality cocktails, their Five Foot Assassin is among the popular drinks here.
Blue Room- Los Angeles
A speakeasy that definitely remains true to its name, the Blue Room lies hidden behind a sliding bookcase in the Los Angeles Athletic Club. A popular speakeasy bar, this place has catered to a number of Hollywood personalities such as Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford and Rudolph Valentino after it first opened. Among the best speakeasy in the world that holds a rich history and heritage, there are a number of antique books, violins, canes, hockey sticks and old photographs which are a part of the members only joint here.
Callooh Callay- London
A speakeasy bar that offers an award winning cocktail menu, the Callooh Callay is a quirky and fascinating place. Featuring a throne and unique artworks, this speakeasy consists of three separate spaces. A speakeasy that is truly one of a kind, their Oolong infused Havana is the most popular drink here.
Disclaimer: The details mentioned throughout this blog are sourced from publicly accessible platforms. At Zeezest, we intend to share factual and verified information. Should there be any inconsistencies or variances in the information provided, please understand that these are entirely unintentional and not meant to mislead.