Best Hidden bars and Speakeasies in DC
Speakeasies in DC are hard to find. If you’re looking for the perfect place to experience a taste of the prohibition-era in Washington D.C, look no further. We have rounded up the best hidden bars and speakeasies in DC. If you like great cocktails, amazing atmospheres and an exciting night out then a speakeasy is perfect for you! From Prohibition-style hideaways to modern craft cocktail bars—these top spots offer delightful concoctions and charming vibes that are sure to make your evening memorable. Whether it’s date night or drinks with friends, explore these secret watering holes full of character. Read on for the best speakeasies DC has to offer.
Top Speakeasies DC has to offer
1. Allegory
1201 K St NW Washington, DC 20005
Located in the radical book library of the Eaton hotel DC; Allegory is one of Washington DC’s most special speakeasy bars. Step through their unmarked entrance to find a chic and mysteriously dimly lit bar. This K street bar is decorated with unique artwork from Erik Thor Sandberg. Displayed prominently, it brings the perfect touch of luxury to the environment. Enjoy share small plates of charcuterie & cheese as you sip on your carefully crafted cocktail – a hidden gem worth exploring in the nation’s capital. This is one of the best speakeasies DC has.
2. Denson Liquor Bar
600 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004
If you’re looking for a sophisticated spot to hang out after work or on the weekend. Then Denson Liquor Bar should be on your list. Nestled in Washington DC’s Penn Quarter , Denson Liquor Bar is an art deco-inspired speakeasy offers classic cocktails with modern twists. Their Rosemary’s Rye is made from rye whiskey, rosemary-cinnamon syrup, and angostura bitters or their Black Sails cocktail which combines dark rum with Averna amaro and honey syrup.
Enjoy these upscale libations while sitting among cozy leather banquettes and nibbling on luxe bites like caviar or deviled eggs. Whatever you choose, it’ll make for an unforgettable evening out in DC.
3. The Backroom at Capo Deli
715 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
The Backroom is a secret cocktail club and bar located in U street Corridor. Take an unforgettable trip back to the 1920s. It is decorated with Prohibition-era decor. Enjoy live jazz music while sipping on some classic cocktails like. This hidden gem is the first speakeasy in DC that truly feels like a secret cocktail club. There is also has a lounge area perfect for a late night out. Step into The Backroom at Capo Deli for a night you won’t forget. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with performances from renowned DJs and live bands, as well as modern seating areas in soft shades of silver and gray. Treat yourself to one of their expansive classic and craft cocktails menus.
4. The Gibson
2009 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Hidden in Plain sight, the Gibson is an enchanting speakeasy located in the heart of Washington D.C. With an unmarked door and velvet curtains and dim lighting. It feels like you’ve truly stepped back in time to the Prohibition era. Voted one of Washington’s oldest speakeasies since opening its doors in 2009, The Gibson offers customers a unique opportunity to experience a classic night out with great drinks. From classic drinks featuring dark rum to inventive cocktails made with house-infused syrups and rye whiskey. The Gibson is an unbeatable spot for a gateway experience in vintage glamor!
5. Captain Gregory’s
Not quite located in Washington DC but Alexandria is right across the bridge. Captain Gregory is an impressive secret bar found inside a donut shop. This hidden spot offers guests an escape from reality. Guests can enjoy intimate conversations in the dimly lit establishment. Complete with comfortable leather seating, this Alexandria bar is perfect for an evening of late night frivolity. The unique cocktail menu offers delicious drinks like Tokyo vice and pine smoke old fashioned. It’s the perfect spot to spend the night catching up with friends or family at a cozy underground hideaway!
6. Left Door
1345 S St. 14th street NW, Washington, DC 20009
If you’re looking for something apart from your typical Washington DC nightspot. Left door is an unmarked house turn speakeasy on S street. Hidden in plain sight, the unmarked door can be hard to spot. It is a secret hideaway, that offers a privacy and atmosphere that can’t be found anywhere else. Enjoy classic cocktails in a dimly lit parlor with creative decorations. Get to know the bar’s unique menu. Try their selection of sugar cane-distilled liquors created by expert mixologists. Their bartenders also deliver top-notch service. If you’re after a little extra something special on your night, grab a drinks at the left door.
7. The Mirror
1413 K St NW, Washington, DC 20005
The Mirror is an unassuming, intimate bar located three blocks away from the White House. Tucked away in Washington DC lies one of the most secretive with great drinks. Through the looking glass, Mirror takes you back to a time almost 100 years ago. A time when Washington DC was alive with bootleggers, flappers, and speakeasies.
In order to get in, you’ll have to go down some stairs located near an abandoned storefront before finally being greeted by a secret full length mirror door. The beverages are just as exciting as the entrance. Their menu offers tasty cocktails such as the Tom Collins made with old tom gin, lemon, sugar and bubbles. One of my favorite drinks is their Ward 8 served with rye, bourbon, lemon, orange and grenadine. The Mirror is one of the best speakeasies in Washington DC.
8. Morris American Bar
1020 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Morris Bar is Located just a street corridor two doors north of Capitol Hill in Union Market DC. This is one of the best speakeasies dc has! Morris American Bar is all about good vibes. Think exposed brick walls decorated with art from local artists. The plant filled bar creates a rustic yet vibrant atmosphere.
Drinks range from classic Manhattan variations to innovative creations such classic drinks such as pineapple-habanero margaritas. There’s even boozy ice cream available if you want something sweet after dinner. But don’t forget about their food menu either. Their Shareable menu snacks include tempura avocado tacos & burgers topped off with spicy kimchi mayo.
9. Never Looked Better
130 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001
Welcome to Never Looked Better – Washington DC’s premier speakeasy. There is an ambiance of from the hidden hideaways of the r twenties and thirties. Their craft cocktails have with a modern twist and flare . Check out the extensive cocktail menu includes clever takes on Dirty Vodka Martinis, Cosmopolitans and Espresso Martini. This Dc speakeasy bar creates some of the one of the best vodka fueled cocktails. They use fresh ingredients, like olives and blue cheese stuffed daily by hand and homemade brine. Try the Cosmopolitan, made with Old Tom Collins gin top shelf liqueur. They can be found found at 130 Blagden Alley. To find this speakeasy, look for the hidden door with the stickers and red glow!
10. The Alex Craft Cocktail Cellar & Speakeasy
1075 Thomas Jefferson St NW, Washington, DC 20007
When you walk past and hear the term “speakeasy” the thoughts you have are relived in Alex Craft Cocktail Cellar & Speakeasy. The downstairs cocktail bar in the the Graham hotel Georgetown. It reflects strongly a prohibition 1920s speakeasy with several new and contemporary touches throughout the space.
Step back in time to the Victorian era with a visit to Alexander Graham Bell’s speakeasy, tucked away in the basement of the Graham Hotel. Delight your senses with unique craft cocktails and snacks as you take in the bar’s steampunk-inspired decor.
Get all dressed up and use the special code from the lobby guards and head downstairs. Don’t forget to indulge in their signature mini bathtub gin & tonic, which is served an actual mini tub! This is undoubtedly one of the best hotel bars in Washington dc.
11. O.K.P.B
3165 Mt Pleasant St NW, Washington, DC 20010
If you’re looking for drinks and a unique bar experience, O.K.P.B. is the place to be! The OKPB Cocktail Lounge is located on Mt. Pleasant at 14th Street NW above a dentist’s office.
Tis bar has a warm speakeasy vibe with rustic furniture, exposed brick walls and cozy seating that makes for a perfect evening out any day of the week.
The bartenders at O.K.P.B. are friendly and knowledgeable, crafting drinks according to each customer’s preference while providing relaxing conversation in the process.
As if that wasn’t enough, they have an extensive selection of spirits, wines and beers behind hidden doors in the secret bar that allows you to explore without ever having to leave your seat!
Your night out at O.K.P.B won’t be complete without trying one of their signature cocktails. Their popular Thirsty Thursday special ‘Manhattan’ is a must try. Go for an after-work drink or a weekend adventure, either way this speakeasy wont disappoint.
12. Silver lyan
900 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Silver Lyan is truly one of the best speakeasies in Washington DC. The lounge, located in the basement of the Riggs Hotel, was brought to life by acclaimed bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana, (a.k.a. Mr Lyan). The chic decoration puts a modern twist with a great speakeasy vibe. Surrounded by a historic bank vault, surrounded by lounge chairs you will be impressed.
Silver Lyan’s cocktail menu is uniquely with crafted with top quality spirits. Don’t miss out on the specialty cocktail selection. Head downstairs and try the Half-Smoke Rickey – Fennel seed Ford’s gin, lime juice, flat top shrub, and soda. Silver Lyan is one-of-a-kind DC speakeasy experience! Check out their website to make reservations.
13. Chicken and whiskey
1738 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Chicken and Whiskey is one of the best speakeasy in DC. Located in the heart of this bustling city, this culinary gem features an incredible Rotisserie chicken and authentic South American style comfort food by Enrique Limardo. To find the speakeasy, Head towards the back where a hidden walk-in fake freezer door reveals a Whiskey Bar! This speakeasy bar has 99 whiskies from around the world. Their menu also has local favorites with handcrafted, scratch cocktails and local craft beers ready for your enjoyment. There is another location in Navy Yard.
Conclusion
DC is known for its unique and exciting speakeasies that will make your next drink or night out one to remember. From Denson Liquor Bar to The Backroom at Capo Deli, all the way back bar and up to The Mirror, there is a speakeasy-style bar in DC suited for everyone’s taste.
Whether you’re looking for a place to buy a craft cocktail or a whiskey bar with an extensive whiskey selection, these speakeasies in DC are sure not to disappoint. Live just outside of the city limits? No need to worry – Captain Gregory’s is just outside in Alexandria, Va.
So why not liven up your next night out a bit? Make it more interesting and discover one of these hidden gems. Have you tried any of these speakeasies? Comment below and follow our newsletter for more amazing tips about DC’s best attractions and DC restaurants!
FAQ. Everything You Need to Know About Speakeasies
Speakeasies are hidden bars that offer a unique way to enjoy a night out. From the Prohibition era to modern day, speakeasies have been used as places to socialize, relax and escape the everyday hustle and bustle of life. Here is everything you need to know about speakeasies:
What is a Speakeasy?
A speakeasy is an underground bar or club that operates outside of normal licensing laws. Speakeasies typically offer various drinks, craft cocktails and live entertainment, but they also often have no regular business hours or phone numbers listed publicly. This creates an exclusive atmosphere where patrons can enjoy a drink and an intimate experience far from prying eyes.
What are the Best Speakeasies in DC?
DC is home to some of the best speakeasies in the country! Some top spots include The Gibson, Never looked better, The Mirror, Allegory, Denis Liquor Bar, Alex Craft Cocktail Cellar & Speakeasy. Each of these venues offers unique vibes and experiences, so it’s worth checking them all out!
How do I Find a Speakeasy?
Finding a good speakeasy can be tricky as they aren’t always easy to locate! Usually you’ll need an inside connection or word-of-mouth tip in order to find one. It’s also important to remember that some speakeasies require reservations ahead of time or specific passwords in order gain entry.
What Should I Expect When I Visit a Speakeasy?
Expect great cocktails with exceptional service when visiting a speakeasy bar! These bars usually offer more than just drinks – some even feature live music or other forms of entertainment. Since each establishment has its own vibe, it’s best to call ahead or check online for information on dress codes and special events beforehand.
How Should I Dress for a Speakeasy?
Dress codes vary depending on the venue; generally speaking though, most speakeasies adhere to smart casual attire (i.e., collared shirts with dress shoes). It’s always best to err on the side of caution when deciding what to wear – better too dressed up than too casual!
What is the Difference Between a Speakeasy and a Bar?
The main difference between a speakeasy and a bar is their approach towards customer service; while bars tend
