New York City was the epicenter of speakeasy culture during the Prohibition era, and those old basements and back rooms aren’t going to waste even today. Despite the law changing almost 100 years ago, the appeal of secret, hidden bars hasn’t waned. New York is home to an impressive number of speakeasies, ranging from pretty well known to borderline urban legend. Step back in time with these eight luxurious speakeasies in NYC that you won’t want to miss.

 

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Just behind a fully functioning, albeit suspiciously clean, bodega, The Little Shop is a chic cocktail den with floral wallpaper and comfortable sofas throughout. The space almost feels like your friend’s living room, where you can relax, enjoy a drink, and nibble off of a nice charcuterie board. Certainly one of the most unexpected and charming speakeasies in NYC.

The Back Room might be the most authentic speakeasy in the city, as it was open during the Prohibition era. You really have to be in-the-know to get inside, since there’s no signage, but it involves a few back alleys and hidden staircases to keep things interesting. With historically accurate vintage decor, you’ll feel transported to the 1920s right down to the cocktails in teacups and beer bottles in brown paper bags.

Please Don’t Tell (often shortened to PDT) is accessed through a vintage phone booth inside Crif Dogs hotdog shop. Often referred to as the bar that originated the modern-speakeasy trend, PDT has made significant impact within the mixology industry across the globe. The bar itself is contemporary with a funky twist, and all of the classic cocktails are on offer. Do note that reservations are recommended since space is limited.

Hidden behind a secret door within Stone Street Coffee Company lies Bathtub Gin, a Roaring Twenties inspired speakeasy. Mondays are jazz nights and Tuesdays feature free burlesque shows, but every night is a party here. There’s a magnificent clawfoot copper bathtub right when you walk in, perfect for an end of the night photo op. The menu is full of gin-centered cocktail classics and plates to share, including delightful desserts like build-your-own smores.

Located in the cellar of the Radio Wave building where Nikola Tesla once lived, Patent Pending is one of the rare and hidden cocktail speakeasies in NYC that function as a coffee shop during the day. Once the sun begins to set, the cafe closes, and you have to hit the buzzer by the door to be let in. Take a walk through the dark and empty shop, step through a fake wall, and voilà – you’re in Patent Pending. The menu is creative, the drinks are seasonal, and the vibes are immaculate.

Thyme Bar is housed in a pre-war cellar that operates as one of the popular speakeasies in NYC, throwing back to the 1920s. Frequent clients refer to the drinks here as “sippable art,” since the presentation is impressive, and ingredients are unique (anything from orange shaved ice to wasabi.) These creative specialty cocktails come in two categories: Floriography (complex) and Le Jardin (simpler, at a lower price point).

Coby Club is a literal underground cocktail lounge à la 1960s San Francisco, located beneath the restaurant Elmo. There are velvet and silk accents throughout, creating a sensual atmosphere conducive to the nightly live burlesque performances. The menu consists of unique craft cocktails and delicious small bites to pair with the drinks.

Hidden down in the mystery of New York City’s subway station, La Noxe one of the smaller though authentic speakeasies in NYC, particularly whispering from Chelsea. With a 1970s retro style, the bar’s entrance is located right by the staircase to the local 1 train, for those who struggle to find the main door. Here’s a popular gem created by Jey Perie, who moved to the city after growing up in France. Cocktails, natural wines, and tapas are served at La Noxe, among dim lighting and velvet sofas.