Top 11 Speakeasy Bars In New York City

Posted by Scott Hamlin
Top 11 Speakeasy Bars In New York City - an inside of a speakeasy bar with people drinking

Stepping into the intoxicating allure of the Big Apple nightlife, there’s an era of decades ago that’s remarkably preserved within its famed Speakeasy Bars. These New York City gems capture the allure of the Prohibition Era, serving their congenial cocktails with a side of historical charm. From secret doors to coded passwords, these establishments transport you to a time where something as simple as sipping spirits was viewed as rebelliously thrilling.

Every nook and cranny of these speakeasy bars is encapsulated in a heady blend of vintage ambiance, classic mixology, and clandestine allure. In this guide, we will traverse the streets of New York City, unearthing the top 11 speakeasy bars where you can unravel the clandestine vibe of the 1920s. Cinematic aesthetics, exotic concoctions, and a hint of nostalgia await you in these bars hidden in plain sight, offering you an intimate and unhurried drink experience.

Speakeasy Bars In New York City

1. Please Don’t Tell

Please Don’t Tell (PDT) is an intimate, exclusive bar hidden behind a vintage phone booth within a bustling hot dog shop. Guests enter through the secret door to find a cozy, dimly lit space where bartenders create innovative and artistic cocktails. Renowned for its eclectic mix of patrons and speakeasy vibe, PDT offers a memorable experience for those in the know.

2. Attaboy

Attaboy represents the pinnacle of personalized cocktail culture in New York City. With no menu in sight, patrons engage directly with bartenders to create tailor-made drinks suited to their tastes, ensuring each cocktail is as unique as the individual ordering it. This innovative approach provides a deeply personal and unforgettable bar-going experience.

3. Bathtub Gin

Nestled behind an unassuming coffee shop facade, Bathtub Gin offers a spirited escape into a time of illicit libations and Prohibition-era excitement. The bar’s interior, featuring a striking bathtub centerpiece, sets the stage for an evening of high-energy socializing, complemented by expertly crafted cocktails and live music events.

4. The Back Room

The Back Room transports its guests to the clandestine world of Prohibition New York, where hidden speakeasies flourished under the radar. Maintaining its historical integrity with original decor and a secret entrance, this bar serves up classic cocktails and a sense of nostalgia, offering a glimpse into the city’s intriguing past.

5. Angel’s Share

Tucked away inside a Japanese restaurant, Angel’s Share stands as an oasis of calm in the bustling city. This intimate space is dedicated to the art of mixology, offering a serene setting and a meticulous selection of cocktails that showcase the bartenders’ expertise in balancing flavors and creating harmony in each glass.

6. Death & Co

As a vanguard of the contemporary cocktail movement, Death & Co is a sanctuary for connoisseurs of fine drinking. The bar’s dark, intimate interior fosters an ambiance of sophistication and mystery, where each cocktail served is a testament to the creativity and passion of its makers.

7. Employees Only

Beyond the mystical aura of its psychic storefront, Employees Only reveals a world of spirited revelry and cocktail craftsmanship. This iconic establishment balances the flair of classic mixology with innovative creations, providing a lively, welcoming atmosphere for both regulars and newcomers alike.

8. Little Branch

Descend into the cozy, subterranean world of Little Branch, where the timeless charm of live jazz blends with the craft of cocktail making. In this intimate setting, patrons can unwind and indulge in bespoke drinks, tailored to their tastes by some of the city’s most skilled bartenders.

9. The Raines Law Room

Echoing the opulence of the 1920s, The Raines Law Room offers an elegant retreat with plush seating and discreet service. Guests can enjoy meticulously crafted cocktails served directly at their tables, providing a personalized and luxurious experience reminiscent of a bygone era.

10. Apotheke

Apotheke reimagines the cocktail bar as a modern-day apothecary, where each drink is designed for both pleasure and health. Drawing inspiration from European traditions, this unique spot categorizes its concoctions by their purported benefits, blending the lines between pharmacy and bar in an intriguing and chic setting.

11. Le Boudoir

Inspired by the lavish court of Marie Antoinette, Le Boudoir immerses guests in the decadence of Versailles with its opulent decor and regal cocktails. This luxurious bar invites patrons to indulge in an evening of extravagance and escape, offering a taste of French royalty in the heart of Brooklyn.

Conclusion

New York City boasts an eclectic mix of captivating speakeasy bars that offer much more than just great drinks. From hidden entrances to enchanting decor, these secret gems perfectly encapsulate the clandestine allure of the Prohibition era. Their unique cocktails, infused with creativity and craftsmanship, complement their ambiances, making each visit an unforgettable experience. Therefore, these top 11 speakeasy bars dramatically enhance NYC’s nightlife, and are the must-visit destinations for any cocktail enthusiasts or history buffs.

Scott Hamlin
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Scott is the editor-in-chief of Spice Market New York. He is also an author and publisher of his own craft.