Top 7 Best Speakeasy Bars Around The World

Almost a century ago, America banned the consumption of alcohol. Therefore, hidden bars with counterfeit alcohol became popular in the United States and Canada in the ‘20s. Today, drinking is legal, but people still love these mysterious hidden bars, requiring a secret password to enter and featuring glamorous decor, fine wines and delicious cocktails. Therefore, there are a lot of speakeasy bars around the world and some of them are real gems.

Formerly one of the New York City’s best kept secrets, this hidden speakeasy bar is located inside Crif Dogs, an East Village hot dog restaurant. The only way to access PDT is through an unusual entrance – a vintage phone box. Once inside, you’ll find a small room with a bar at its center, with probably the most talented bartenders in New York and most sophisticated cocktails. And if you also want hot dogs, you can order some.

With an intimate ambiance, amazing cocktails and very knowledgeable staff, Nightjar is one of the greatest speakeasy bars ever. This is the reason why it now operates an online-only booking system and charges your credit card if you don’t show up. Opened in 2010, Nightjar brings a slice of 1920s glamour to East London, serving the best cocktails in London and hosting live jazz performances.

Located in the historic center of Cluj-Napoca, SAX with friends is a wine bar in a true speakeasy style: visitors are required to provide a password in order to gain entry into the place. But the effort is truly worth its weight in gold. Fine wines, the most special delicacies, whether locally crafted or from around the world, works of art (painting, sculpture, installation, fashion design, designer jewelry and others, in permanent and temporary exhibitions), jazz, blues, funk and very friendly people – this hidden bar is the perfect place for you to be spoiled.

Since its opening in 2010, the Jerry Thomas Project has become one of the most coveted speakeasy bars in the world. But it’s not easy to get inside this bar located in the historic center of Rome, right by Piazza Navona. You need to know the answer to a question, and these questions change frequently. Once through, you must follow the bar rules. And the rules are: pay in cash only, smoke in moderation, don’t use flash photography and never ever ask for vodka.

One of the most recent speakeasy bars, this little hotspot can only be accessed via a chic designer-style florist shop. The place is inspired by the immigrants who flocked to Argentina in the last few centuries and the atmosphere is like a continuous party where everyone could know everyone. Floreria Atlantico serves great cocktails, but also great tapas, so do yourself a favour and order some food. You will love it!

This hidden bar located on Rue Frochot is all about delicious absinthe-based cocktails. With a sumptuous Art Deco bar and music ranging from jazz and blues to contemporary folk, Lulu White is extravagant and lush: leather, mirrors, marble and mahogany. Named after a legendary New Orleans madam, this signless spot is a must when you are in Paris. Enjoy! 

A clandestine pop-up cocktail bar with a lot of candles and a strict dress code. The location is secret and revealed by email only to ticket holders two days before the event. So, prepare your finest 1920s outfits and get ready to dance!