Uncovering NYC’s Best Speakeasy Bars: A Journey Back to the Roaring Twenties

Ah, New York City! The city that never sleeps, where the skyline touches the clouds and history whispers down its bustling streets. Among the many treasures hidden within its neighborhoods are speakeasies—those charming, clandestine bars that harken back to the Prohibition era. Here’s your guide to the top speakeasy bars in NYC and surrounding boroughs that are currently operating. Grab your flapper dress or your best fedora, and let’s slip into some nightlife that would make Gatsby proud!

Please Don’t Tell (PDT)

Location: 113 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009
Hours: Sun-Thurs 5 PM - 12 AM, Fri-Sat 5 PM - 2 AM
Cover Charge: No cover, but expect to spend around $20 per cocktail.

Hidden behind a vintage phone booth in Crif Dogs, PDT is the epitome of the speakeasy experience. The intimate space serves inventive cocktails and offers a menu of hot dogs that are equally unique. Pro tip: Call ahead for reservations, or be prepared to cozy up in line—because waiting is half the adventure!

2. The Back Room

Location: 102 Norfolk St, New York, NY 10002
Hours: Wed-Sun 5 PM - 1 AM (closed Mon-Tues)
Cover Charge: No cover charge; cocktails average $14.

Step through a discreet door and prepare to be transported to the 1920s. The Back Room offers an authentic experience complete with cocktails served in teacups—because what could be more delightful than sipping a drink without raising eyebrows? Live jazz on select nights only adds to the allure.

The Flatiron Room

Location: 37 W 26th St, New York, NY 10010
Hours: Daily 5 PM - 2 AM
Cover Charge: $20 for live music events, cocktails around $18.

This sophisticated spot is perfect for those looking to enjoy a night filled with great whiskey and live jazz. With an extensive selection of over 750 whiskeys, you might just find your new favorite pour. The plush decor and lush ambiance make it a romantic setting to unwind.

Apotheke

Location: 9 Doyers St, New York, NY 10013
Hours: Sun-Thurs 5 PM - 1 AM, Fri-Sat 5 PM - 2 AM
Cover Charge: No cover; cocktails range from $14 to $20.

Nestled in Chinatown, Apotheke prides itself on craft cocktails inspired by the elements and botanicals. With its pharmacy-themed decor, each drink is a balanced concoction that could leave you feeling like a chemist in a secret lab. Just follow the whispers of the herbs and spices for a night of delightful experimentation.

The Clover Club

Location: 210 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Hours: Daily 5 PM - 2 AM
Cover Charge: No cover (but enjoy their curated cocktails for around $14).

Located in Cobble Hill, The Clover Club combines a vintage feel with modern cocktail artistry, featuring a beautiful back bar and plush seating. Their inventive drink menu is complemented by a small bites menu that’ll keep your tummy happy while you sip away in style. Live music adds a festive touch to your evening.

Raines Law Room

Location: 48 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011
Hours: Sun-Thurs 5 PM - 1 AM, Fri-Sat 5 PM - 2 AM
Cover Charge: No cover (cocktails start around $18).

Tucked away in a discreet location, Raines Law Room is a cozy hideaway where the waitstaff is trained to avoid disturbances for your intimate gatherings. The luxurious setting, complete with plush chairs and dim lighting, offers a splendid atmosphere to indulge in thoughtfully crafted cocktails.

The Garret

Location: 296 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Hours: Mon-Sun 5 PM - 2 AM
Cover Charge: No cover; cocktails priced around $14.

Situated above a Five Guys (yes, you read that right), The Garret feels like a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. The eclectic decor creates a warm and inviting vibe, perfect for a laid-back evening. Their craft cocktails are as creative as the atmosphere, making for a delightful mingle and jingle kind of night.

In Closing...

Whether you're a local looking to dive deeper into the city’s nightlife or a visitor eager to experience NYC's charm beyond the bright lights, these speakeasy bars are perfect for encapsulating the magic of the Roaring

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