Speakeasy Etiquette: Then and Now

Finding a speakeasy can be really cool as there’s a certain thrill of finding a hidden entrance or knowing the code or password to get in. Once there it’s the charm of ordering a craft cocktail or experiencing the intimate atmosphere. In some cases, speakeasies have a way of transporting us to another time. Part of the allure lies in the secrecy and unspoken rules. This includes speakeasy etiquette. Things have changed from historical speakeasies to modern speakeasies, but etiquette still applies. 

Speakeasy etiquette first emerged during Prohibition in the 1920s. Drinking forbidden alcohol was an outlet for those opposed to new laws of banning alcohol. So discretion was the most important rule. Patrons had to be mindful of where they were and follow a strict code of secrecy. 

Imagine what patrons had to go through to actually enter a speakeasy. You have to know where they are, you have to know how to get in and you have to know how to do so without letting others know. This might include finding an unmarked door, giving the secret knock and whispering the password through an open slot. It wasn’t just for effect, it was literally a matter of survival for each establishment. If you were one of the few who was actually lucky enough to gain entry, you’d experience what very few people did. You’d walk inside and find yourself in a small and intimate, smoke filled room with jazz music, dim lighting and the bar.

Before entering the speakeasy, the unspoken rules included no discussing the location with outsiders and no sharing of inside information. 

Once inside, the unspoken rules continued. This included no loud conversations and no drawing attention to yourself. People went to a speakeasy to blend in, enjoy the music, and order forbidden drinks without making a scene. Even then, respect for the bartenders was paramount. They were not only mixing your drinks, but the bartenders were often the ones running the show.

It’s fascinating to think about how etiquette shaped the speakeasy culture back then. It wasn’t just about secrecy. It was about being part of an exclusive experience, where shared trust and respect were everything.

Today the stakes are lower, mainly because there are no raids and in most cases alcohol is not illegal. Modern speakeasies still honor many of these traditions and a  sense of nostalgia. It’s what makes visiting a speakeasy so special. While the rules may have changed, the spirit remains the same.

One of the things you’ll notice about a modern speakeasy is the effort it takes to find it. Keep in mind, many speakeasy themed establishments, create an experience and gamify how to get inside. Most hidden bars aren’t trying to prevent people from entering, but they want to keep alive the secrecy to gain entry. They thrive on secrecy. Whether the entrance is behind a bookshelf, inside a phone booth, or hidden in plain sight. I’ve had the pleasure of hunting down several speakeasies in cities like Austin, New York City, Salt Lake City, Seattle, Lisbon, and more and finding the entrance is half the fun.

Once inside, it’s important to respect the speakeasy etiquette. Most speakeasies are intentionally small and intimate with dim lighting and vintage decor. Loud conversations or rowdy behavior are big no-gos. These places are designed for quiet enjoyment and not for shouting over a crowd. 

Showing respect for bartenders is another key aspect of modern speakeasy etiquette. Most of them are skilled mixologists who take pride in their craft. They’re not just making drinks, they’re making experiences and creating art in a glass. The server or bartender will often share more on the drinks, so take time to appreciate their work. If you have the opportunity to have a conversation, ask questions and don’t be afraid to try something new. Some of my favorite craft cocktails were by simply asking the bartender to surprise me.

Phones also play a key part in speakeasy etiquette. While most speakeasies don’t necessarily ban phone use, it’s generally understood you shouldn’t use it there and if you do, keep it to a minimum. Take a quick picture without flash if you must, but don’t spend the evening scrolling or live-tweeting your experience. Part of the charm of a speakeasy is being present in the moment.

Here are my recommendations when visiting a speakeasy: 1. Dress nicely, 2. No large groups (keep your table size small and intimate) 3. Keep your conversations quiet (avoid being loud) 4. Enjoy the experience, so put your phone down and be present.  At its core, speakeasy etiquette is about respect. Respect for the space, the people who create it, and the history it represents.