Speakeasies are the direct result of the Prohibition Era which made it illegal to sell, manufacture, or transport liquor. During the Prohibition Era, it was easier for individuals to get their hands on gin, whiskey, and moonshine. This is the very reason you see many gin and whiskey-based drinks at speakeasy bars. Some aspects of such as the element of secrecy continued to appeal to bar patrons and liquor connoisseurs, therefore, the popularity of speakeasies. Check out 5 speakeasies in NYC you need to add to your list!

Blind Barber

Past the barber chair will lead you to a spacious bar with an attentive mixologist. Blind Barber does take reservations for groups of 8 or more so your whole crew can meet up for a good time. My personal favorite cocktail is Strawberry Fields #2, and they have a variety of pizzas to order from.

339 East 10th Street, New York NY 10009 (East Village)

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A post shared by Blind Barber (@blindbarber) on Nov 16, 2018 at 5:25pm PST

The Basement

Located in the basement of Cha Chang Tang and beyond the Coco-Cola door is where you will find this NEW speakeasy with a game room theme.

45 Mott Street, New York NY 10013 (Chinatown)

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A post shared by #Basement (@b.s.m.n.t) on Oct 21, 2018 at 4:37pm PDT

Patent Pending

Hidden behind a coffee-shop Patent Pending is getting ready to celebrate their first year in business. You can expect a wait for a table as this speakeasy in high demand seeing that it is a new and popular establishment. Once you grab a seat I would recommend Strange Music, Radio Waves, or Currents & Coils.

49 West 27th Street, New York 10001 (Flatiron)

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A post shared by Patent Pending (@patentpendingnyc) on Oct 25, 2018 at 1:25pm PDT

Sugar East

Located in the basement of Treadmill Park you will find Sugar East and one of the few speakeasies that take reservations.

1125 1st Avenue, New York 10065 (Upper East Side)

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Nothing Really Matters

Hidden subway bars have been the concept that has piqued many New Yorkers’ interest for their next watering hole. Opening in early 2022, Nothing Really Matter, has received write-ups from multiple large digital publications. This bar is great for large groups and does not offer reservations.

50th Street Subway for the 1 Train (Hells Kitchen)

La Noxe

This 600 square foot speakeasy is located steps away from the 1 train at 28th street. Reservations via RESY are strongly recommended by clicking here, and large parties are not recommended.

28th Street Subway for the 1 Train (Chelsea)

Do you have a favorite speakeasy you recommend? Share it in the comment section below!