12 Hidden Bars and Speakeasies in NYC Worth Seeking Out

One of our favorite things about living in the Big Apple is just how many hidden gems are waiting to be discovered. Case in point: these ultra-cool and oh-so-secret drinking dens (well, secret-ish). For historical context, speakeasies were a big thing in the 1920s when purchasing and consuming alcohol was illegal. Once the Prohibition Era ended, these hush-hush bars no longer had to operate clandestinely but continued to be popular, nonetheless. And these days, these covert spots are downright trendy (because who doesn’t want to sneak into an exclusive locale?). So, if you’re looking to upgrade your drinking experience (and impress your friends), here are 12 speakeasy-themed spots in NYC that are definitely worth checking out.

Finding a bar with good food and drinks is OK, but what about kicking back in an NYC speakeasy with arcade games too? Once you enter through a Coca-Cola door, you’ll find a part bar, part game room. Grab yourself a drink (we like the 5 Spiced Life or HK Milk Punch) and challenge your friends to a beer pong or darts match. Oh, and loser buys a whole round for the winning team.

45 Mott St.; 929-777-1388 or basementchinatown.com

Next stop: A speakeasy hidden inside an NYC subway station. Yup, this Chelsea location is only visible the second you step off the train and head to the south east bound exit. But don’t let the gritty location fool you—step inside and you’ll feel like you’re in a chic Instagram-inspired apartment. While you’re admiring the interior, ask for the Uptown Local (aka dark and pineapple rum combo), Tangiers Sunset (a gin-Aperol mix) or snack on their Mediterranean bites.

315 7th Ave.; 917-477-3103 or lanoxenyc.com

You’re never going to look at your local Five Guys the same way again. The West Village location, in particular, has a hidden bar that you might’ve overlooked. Trick your date by walking them all the way to the back, pass the employees-only door and up the stairs to a fun surprise. The intimate setting is great for small groups and sipping elegant cocktails like The First Lady (gin, matcha green tea and egg white mix) or Champagne Cocktail (Processo and cognac blend).

296 Bleecker St.; thegarretwest.com

Grab yourself a coffee in the morning and head to the back for a drink at night. The NOMAD spot is electrifying...literally. With bright light bulbs illuminating the bar selection in the back of the coffee shop, this speakeasy can’t be missed. Aspiring mixologists will especially appreciate the menu featuring intricate details about each signature cocktail straight from an inventor’s notebook. Check out the Radio Waves (a tequila specialty) or Strange Magic (a vodka, prosecco, seltzer mix) for starters.

49 West 27th St.; 212-689-4002 or patentpendingnyc.com

With a name like Please Don’t Tell, you know what you’re getting yourself into at this clandestine spot. (Even the website doesn’t give away any details.) As soon as you enter Crif Dogs (a hot dog spot), step inside their phone booth for a set of instructions how to get inside this exclusive place. Once inside, order some classic drinks (like a mezcal mule or old fashioned) or specialty cocktails (like Good Thyme, a gin and wine fusion).

113 Marks Pl.; pdtnyc.com

The OG of speakeasies is this Chelsea pick. Go downstairs and ring the bell to step right into the 1920s. And forget about asking for a drink at the bar—at this swish joint you have to ring the bell for service. Whether you need a hot date spot or someplace quiet to catch up with a friend, this spot and their selection of tasty drinks is guaranteed to be a hit.

48 West 17th St.; raineslawroom.com/chelsea

Need a pawn shop? We know just the place. Oh, and it so happens to have a restaurant, lounge and bar roll into one space too. Browse through the vintage gems before heading over for a bite. We recommend gin cocktails like The Pink Panther and Beauty Elixir.

146 Essex St.; 212-614-0146 or taogroup.com/venues/beauty-essex-new-york