Speakeasies in Connecticut
A century ago, a series of hidden and underground bars called ‘speakeasies’ started a historic movement pushing back against Prohibition and the illegalities of serving alcohol. Since then, speakeasies have remained an integral part of bar culture, with creative and secretive ways to locate them and get in.
Connecticut has a whole bunch of speakeasies for your vibe! Use our guide as a starting point, but it’s up to you to find the way inside…
True Speakeasies
Find the side door. Crack the code. Take the hidden staircase. There’s a special way to get into each of these hidden bars.
Conspiracy, Middletown
The feel of an exclusive club doesn’t have to be exclusive! Conspiracy takes you under the marquee and into an ambience of excellence, highlighted by carefully made cocktails and food.
The Franklin Lounge, Torrington
The Franklin is more than a lounge- it's an experience. Where sophistication meets elegance. Enjoy unique cocktails and indulgent food.
The Den at Hush, Southington
The Den at Hush is a speakeasy hidden behind - are you ready for this? – Hush: a Del Soul Spa, in Southington’s Factory Square. Find a secret door behind a bookcase that opens to the lounge area, and enjoy classic and seasonal drinks in the cool covert space. The bar specializes in small batch cocktails, with a wide variety of selection of bourbons, whiskey and tequilas, and is becoming known for its Old Fashioned and espresso martinis, says co-owner Katie Kiss.
The Guest Room at Founder’s House, Milford
Your server. Your bartender. Even your own bathroom. Entering the side entrance is way cooler when it’s only you and the squad. You’re literally the main character.
I Know You Know, New Britain
With a passcode required for entry, cracking the code treats you with a vast selection of craft cocktails as the state’s newest, innovative speakeasy. We know this is a place you need to try.
Beauty & Essex, Mohegan Sun
Unique shareable dishes and classic cocktails with a twist are one secret passage away. This restaurant, lounge, and pawn shop has an innovative design that starts in the shop area, complete with vintage treasures and curated contemporary pieces. The host greets you and takes you past upholstered walls into the Pearl lounge and bar, with two other dining rooms separated by a screen wall of antique frames.
The 196 Club, Hartford
The candy shop façade of Emrey’s Specialty Sweets is just the beginning. There’s no sweeter feeling than finding the hidden bar tucked inside: The 196 Club. Kids can feel like kids in the candy store, while you’re adulting right.
The Bunker, West Hartford
It’s literally an underground bunker, believed to have been a past shelter. You don’t need captain or colonel status to relax here. Indulge in small bites and draft beer while challenging your friends to table games.
The Gilded Curtain, Wallingford
It looks like a classic 90s video rental store from the outside, but behind the wall displays of old VHS tapes, you’ll find a Hollywood-themed speakeasy and lounge with classic cocktails. The owners also operate Bones & Botanicals in Wallingford, a tea shop that transitions to a speakeasy at night “where plants, potions, and spirits intertwine.”
1928 Cocktail Club, Branford
Begin your rebel era in this faithful adaptation of the Roaring ‘20s. Whether you live neat or on the rocks, there’s a classic drink ready for everyone. The accompanying music and décor bring it all together.
Speakeasy-Inspired Spots
Not traditional speakeasies, these spots have the same cozy vibe. Immerse yourself in bars that aren’t traditionally hidden, but hidden gems instead!
Ordinary, New Haven
There’s nothing ordinary about it (besides the name). Ordinary specializes in high-class hospitality and New Haven history. Whiskey lovers will appreciate the vast selection of bourbon, rye and scotch. For the less old-fashioned, try carefully selected rum, gin, mezcal and more!
The Goose American Bistro & Bar, Darien
While not a traditional speakeasy, The Goose is an atmospheric reinterpretation of one. Wood panels and warm lighting introduce you to an era of the past. You won’t want to go back to the present.
TK’s American Café, Danbury
Rumored to be an operating speakeasy during the Prohibition era, TK’s is now one of Connecticut’s prime wing destinations. Pair with a craft beer and catch the game.
The Manhattan, Southington
This speakeasy-style restaurant and lounge naturally has a full lineup of variations on its eponymous drink, as well as twists on other classics like a Cosmopolitan. The Manhattan features an extensive tapas selection (lamb empanadas, tuna tartare, chicken spring rolls, sauteed octopus) alongside heartier steaks and fish entrees and traditional paellas.
The Port of Call / Dive, Mystic
Go below deck to Dive, an extension of The Port of Call. Inspired by deep-sea exploration, you’ll find even more nautical cocktails in the belly of the beast. Try your hand at shuffleboard and table games for bragging rights!
The Hidden Still, Ellington
It makes sense to have a moonshine inspired speakeasy, considering the spirit’s years of heavy regulation eventually turned legal. Craft cocktails are revolutionized with moonshine inspired creations that cater to all. Sweet and strong thrives here.
The Library Wine Bar & Bistro, Wallingford
Let your night’s story unfold at The Library Wine Bar & Bistro. Turn the menu’s page for a fine selection of wines and food options. Reading not required, but welcome!
Firehouse 12, New Haven
Don’t expect to hear sirens coming from Firehouse 12. More likely are laughs, chill convo, live music and maybe even beats from the recording studio. Located in the Ninth Square District, sit back and relax with classic cocktails and bites synonymous with the city.
Elm City Social, New Haven
Elm City Social evokes the spirit of the 1920's, bringing back to life the craftwork of cocktails that has been lost until now. Chef John Brennan draws you in with seasonally inspired menus that can only be described as comfort food with a flavorful twist. Elm City is located inside the historic building that once housed Kasey's Restaurant in the the early 1900's.
The Owl Shop, New Haven
Some things just go together perfectly, like whiskey and cigars. Grab a spot at the lounge for the full experience. Good taste lives in Connecticut, for the perfect gentlemen.
The Lady, Hartford
If vodka’s your thing, The Lady is next on your bucket list. Russian atmosphere all around, frequent live music, and an ideal location in Hartford checks all the boxes.
The Whiskey Barrel, Stratford
That around the campfire feeling is present at The Whiskey Barrel. Dark liquor lovers will find all the bourbon, rye, and scotch one could imagine.
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