Modern Day Speakeasies
In recent years, speakeasies have experienced a resurgence as trendy, upscale hidden bars that mimic the secrecy and exclusivity of their Prohibition-era predecessors. Today’s speakeasies often feature hidden entrances, unmarked doors, or secret passwords, creating a sense of intrigue and adventure.
While these establishments are legal, they evoke a nostalgia for the past and often offer craft cocktails, unique atmospheres, and an emphasis on mixology. Some modern speakeasies aim to recreate the aesthetics of the 1920s speakeasy culture, complete with vintage décor, jazz music, and prohibition-style drinks.
Others take a more contemporary approach, using the speakeasy concept as a way to create an exclusive, intimate environment away from the hustle of typical nightlife. Speakeasies now exist around the world, with major cities like New York, London, and Tokyo offering renowned hidden bars. They’ve become a global phenomenon, combining old-world charm with modern cocktail culture.
Modern speakeasies across different regions
United States
- Heavy emphasis on Prohibition-era aesthetics and cocktail culture
- Often require passwords or hidden entrances (behind bookcases, through phone booths)
- Typically focus on craft cocktails and mixology
- Found primarily in major cities like NYC, Chicago, LA
- Strong emphasis on bourbon and American whiskey
- Often feature jazz music and period-appropriate decor
Europe
- Less focused on Prohibition era themes, more on exclusive/intimate atmosphere
- Often located in historic buildings or cellars
- Strong focus on local spirits (gin in London, absinthe in Paris)
- More likely to incorporate modern design elements to the speakeasy culture
- Many feature molecular mixology and avant-garde techniques
- Notable scenes in London, Paris, Berlin, and Barcelona
Asia
- Ultra-high-end, exclusive establishments, especially in Tokyo and Hong Kong
- Extremely precise attention to craft and technique
- Often very small capacity (some Tokyo bars seat under 10 people)
- Strong focus on whisky, particularly Japanese whisky
- Formal service style with strict etiquette
- Hidden bar locations often in office buildings or apartment complexes
- Notable concentration in Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Seoul
South America
- Often blend local drinking style with a speakeasy culture
- Strong emphasis on pisco, cachaça, and rum-based drinks
- More likely to include food service
- Often feature live music and dancing
- Less rigid about maintaining "secret" hidden bar status
- Popular in cities like Buenos Aires, São Paulo, Lima
- More casual atmosphere compared to other regions
Australia
- Strong presence in major cities like Melbourne and Sydney
- Often incorporate native Australian ingredients in craft cocktails
- Heavy influence from both American and Asian speakeasy culture and styles
- Many located in laneways and basement spaces
- Popular use of repurposed historic buildings
- Notable for indoor/outdoor hybrid spaces due to climate
- Strong emphasis on Australian spirits, particularly gin
Africa
The speakeasy scene varies significantly by region.
North Africa: Limited due to religious and cultural factors - Strong emphasis on non-alcoholic cocktail options
South Africa: Thriving scene in Cape Town and Johannesburg - Many incorporate colonial-era themes and decor
West Africa: Limited but growing scene in cities like Lagos - Strong emphasis on local spirits and ingredients
East Africa: Emerging scene in cities like Nairobi - Fusion of African and international influences - Growing speakeasy culture and craft cocktails