The 1920s was a favorite era of many. The fashion, the jazz, and the art. The prohibition? Not so much. We’ve officially come full circle, and the ’20s are upon us once more. If you’re like me and love an ode to what came out of the prohibition era: speakeasies, get ready to add a few of these to your cocktail list.
Bathtub Gin
Did you ever think you’d enter a bar with a bathtub? Hidden behind a coffee shop, Bathtub Gin is a great spot to grab drinks one night after work. As gin was one of the major spirits of choice of the time, there are several fantastic gin cocktails at your fingertips. Take your drink over to the bathtub (yes, a real bathtub) and snap a few Insta-worthy pics with the squad or solo!
The Campbell
Grab a drink before jumping on the train after a long day of business meetings. The Campbell, located inside Grand Central is a speakeasy that pays tribute to John W. Campbell. A financier of the Jazz Age, Campbell converted his private office space into a timeless bar. Sip on an Old Fashioned and take in some of the original pieces, such as his steel safe and millwork.
Sugar East
Venture to the Upper East Side for classic drinks, and a great Happy Hour from 5-7 pm. Sugar East is inspired by the Prohibition Era, but with a modern twist. While sipping on a few adult beverages with a group of friends, try out the Mango Volcano Bowl. Serving four, it’s mixed with Barbancourt aged rum, Viva Reposado tequila, allspice, pineapple, mango cordial, tiki tincture, and lime!
Beauty and Essex
Thinking of going on a cute date night? Get away from your typical go-to spots and head over to Beauty and Essex for a nice dinner and cocktail. It’s a pawn shop during the day, but turns into a bar/restaurant in the evening, right behind its walls. It’s the perfect spot to sit, relax and try out some new concoctions.
The Garret
Planning on going out this weekend, but don’t want all the craziness of the Lower East Side? Opt for The Garret, hidden inside of a Five Guys. Head inside, act like you’re walking into the kitchen and then turn to the left for the passage to the concealed bar upstairs. Later, come back down for a burger and fries to top off your night.
Please Don’t Tell
One of Manhattan’s more popular spots, Please Don’t Tell is where you escape for an hour or two with a few friends. Found behind a hotdog joint, the close-knit spot is perfect to grab some grub and a cocktail. If you’re more of a beer-lover, they also have a great selection for that. Make sure, however, you call in advance for a reservation, or you just might have to wait in line for a while.
Peppi’s Cellar
A secret Italian bar located in Little Italy, Peppi’s Cellar is another cute little spot for a sweet date night. Enjoy dinner and a delicious cocktail, while you catch a live Jazz show. We recommend the Sgroppino, mixed with Montenegro, sorbet, vodka, and prosecco.
Employees Only
Another cool West Village go-to, Employees Only is designed with art-deco in mind. Take a friend that’s visiting for a luxe dinner, so they can get a real NYC experience. Afterward, split a dessert and sit back with a cocktail or two, as you both catch up during a much-needed reunion.
Little Branch
This hidden bar is the definition of a secret. With no website and only a black door located at the end of the street as its entrance, Little Branch is the speakeasy you visit when you don’t want to be found. Sip on a martini in the candlelit space, for the true experience of being in a bar during the Prohibition Era.
