The History of Speakeasies: NYC’s Prohibition Era Bars Today

New York City’s Prohibition era (1920-1933) marked a dramatic chapter in American history, when the manufacture and sale of alcohol were banned. This sweeping legislation gave rise to a vibrant underground culture of hidden bars, or speakeasies, that became the beating heart of social life in the city. Today, modern speakeasies pay homage to this rebellious spirit, blending historic charm with contemporary cocktail artistry.

Prohibition and the Rise of Speakeasies

The 18th Amendment, enforced by the Volstead Act, sought to curb alcohol consumption, but it inadvertently spurred a thriving black market. In NYC, speakeasies became clandestine hubs of creativity and defiance. Hidden behind unmarked doors, inside basements, and even disguised as other businesses, these venues hosted live jazz, daring fashion, and innovative cocktails crafted from whatever spirits were available.

Icons like the 21 Club and the Cotton Club epitomized this era, where glamour and secrecy collided. Women, newly liberated by the suffragist movement, joined men in these spaces, reshaping nightlife into a more inclusive, modern scene.

Modern Speakeasies in NYC

New York’s contemporary speakeasies preserve the allure of the past, combining historic aesthetics with inventive drinks and discreet locations. Here are a few that honor this legacy:

1. Please Don’t Tell (PDT)

Hidden behind a phone booth in a hot dog joint, PDT channels the thrill of discovery. Its inventive cocktails and cozy ambiance make it a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts.

2. The Back Room

One of the few surviving Prohibition-era speakeasies, The Back Room serves cocktails in teacups, a clever nod to the secretive drinking methods of the 1920s. Its vintage decor evokes the glamour of the era.

3. Bathtub Gin

Located behind a coffee shop, Bathtub Gin recalls the infamous homemade spirits of the time. Its lush, art deco interior and gin-centric menu celebrate the period’s creativity in cocktails.

4. Attaboy

This Lower East Side gem is the modern iteration of Milk & Honey, the original speakeasy revival bar. There’s no menu—bartenders craft bespoke drinks based on your preferences.

Crafting Prohibition-Era Cocktails

If you’re inspired to recreate the speakeasy vibe at home, here are a few classic Prohibition-era cocktails to try:

The Bee’s Knees

• 2 oz gin

• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice

• 3/4 oz honey syrup (1 part honey, 1 part water)
  Shake with ice and strain into a coupe glass.

Southside

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz lime juice

• 1 oz simple syrup

• Fresh mint
  Muddle mint with simple syrup, then add the other ingredients. Shake with ice and strain into a chilled glass.

Sidecar

• 2 oz cognac

• 1 oz orange liqueur

• 3/4 oz lemon juice
  Shake with ice and strain into a sugar-rimmed coupe glass.

Where to Experience More

For an authentic mixology journey, the Art of the Cocktail classes in NYC delve into both classic and modern recipes. Led by expert mixologists, these classes provide hands-on instruction to help you perfect the art of cocktail crafting​​.

Additionally, consider celebrating the legacy of speakeasies at Roof at Park South, known for its spirit-forward cocktails and stylish yet welcoming ambiance, or at Sweetbriar NYC, where timeless charm meets contemporary flair​​.

From secret entrances to meticulously crafted drinks, NYC’s modern speakeasies carry forward the rebellious spirit of Prohibition, offering a taste of history in every sip. Step into these hidden gems to experience a bygone era reimagined for today.