What Is a Speakeasy?

Originally a secret hangout where people could grab a strong drink or a glass of beer during the Prohibition era in the United States, modern speakeasies have become a popular vintage bar experience. What exactly is a speakeasy, and how do modern ones keep the original speakeasy culture alive? Let’s get into it.

The speakeasy gained popularity in the United States during the Prohibition era (1920-1933) because it offered a secret way for people to enjoy outlawed drinks. The Prohibition bar fell out of popularity once alcohol became legal to sell, making the secret bar less necessary.

Often hidden in plain sight, the speakeasy entrance was typically hidden behind objects in common spaces like laundromats or barbershops. Speakeasy rooms were dimly lit small, crowded spaces that made it difficult to identify patrons as live music and entertainment played. Elaborate cocktails were also a speakeasy staple.

Other sources believe the term came from the customers who were often instructed to “speakeasy” or “whisper” when discussing the bar or in the establishment to avoid alerting suspicious eyes (alcohol.org). Speakeasies were only discovered through word-of-mouth, meaning everyone had to be careful when talking about the establishment in public.

With a large number of speakeasies across the country, it is not surprising that there was a wide range of themes. From the modest setups that served moonshine in basement speakeasies to glamorous nightclubs that embodied the Roaring Twenties, the speakeasy theme always promised a fun night out.

The 21 Club in New York, originally named the Red Head, was notable for its secretary. A system of levers was used to tip the shelves of the bar, sweep the liquor bottles through a chute, break the bottles, and allow the alcohol to flow into the city’s sewers (via 21 Club History).

Before Prohibition, it was highly uncommon for women to drink alcohol in public. According to Lip Magazine, women who did appear drunk in public were labeled as immoral or sex workers. Speakeasies catered to female patrons with restaurants, dancing, and bathrooms to check their hair and makeup. These changes continued after the end of Prohibition.

The quality of alcohol during Prohibition was often poor due to the rush of production. Speakeasy cocktails allowed the bartenders to mask the harsh taste of bootleg liquor.

Speakeasies are also one of the few elements of the decade that still lives on in the modern era. Trends are temporary, but martinis are forever.

Unlike the secret bar hidden away from the unknowing public, speakeasies operate as hidden bars or pop-up events that use secrecy and exclusivity to attract customers. With a secret entrance that requires passwords or reservations, these modern speakeasies keep the characteristics of the speakeasy alive and well.

Speakeasies are known for their creative and innovative cocktails, which means that the bartenders are often skilled mixologists. Their use of high-quality ingredients leads to unique and flavorful cocktails that customers won’t be able to find anywhere else.

Since speakeasies are not a secret anymore, you can find these exclusive bars online or by asking locals in your area. Chances are there is a speakeasy closer to you than you would have thought.