Prohibition might be over but the spirit of the ’20s is alive and well in these hidden bars throughout Southern California. An enduring American tradition, going to a speakeasy makes for an exciting, group-friendly event in Los Angeles or San Diego. So, put on your wingtips, warm up the Studebaker, and get ready to be transported back to the Roaring Twenties at these top-rated (and very secret) speakeasies.
Blind Barber, Culver City
It’s all business in the front with an old-fashioned, full-service barbershop on display. Stop in for a shave and haircut, then head to the back where it’s a full-on party, twenties style as you sip on an Old Fashioned at the bar. The Blind Barber is easy to find. Just keep walking towards the back of the shop and there it is.
Exhibition Room, Long Beach
For the whiskey connoisseur, this speakeasy is a real treat, especially with their collection of vintage spirits that are extremely rare and no longer in production. Located at the back of Roxanne’s Lounge, getting to The Exhibition Room will require you to follow the trail of flappers and gangsters through a 1940s-era phone booth, say the correct password, and get ready to sip craft cocktails like it’s 1927.
Prohibition Lounge, San Diego
A fun start to group friendly events in San Diego is a handcrafted, old fashioned man soda at the Prohibition Lounge, a legendary speakeasy establishment that caters to the whiskey drinking crowd.
Old Lightning, Venice
Tucked away in the back of Scopa Italian Roots restaurant is a tiny Prohibition-era bar with a cozy layout that makes you feel like you’re sipping cocktails in someone’s swanky bachelor pad. Made with exotic liquors from around the world, the drinks are old fashioned and straight up, just like back in the day. But not everyone can handle the authenticity, especially the no cell phone rule and strict dress code (no shorts or flip-flops). To get in, ask your server at Scopa or send an email for the password.
Noble Experiment, San Diego
Staying in line with the secretive tradition of the speakeasy, this Prohibition-style bar is hidden behind a wall of boutique eateries and can only be accessed by patrons that know where the entrance is located. Once you step inside the swanky establishment, it takes you out of the present and into a time machine that takes you back to the Roaring Twenties.
Sunset & Vinyl, Hollywood
You won’t find a sign advertising this hidden hotspot, which makes it one of the most secret spots in Los Angeles. It’s hard to believe a speakeasy exists above the 800 Degrees Pizza, but if you walk past the restrooms and up the stairs, you’ll know you’ve arrived when you see the groovy 60s and 70s décor of this vinyl-themed bar.
The Slipper Clutch, Downtown Los Angeles
Standing out in the speakeasy scene with its strong punk vibe, this rock-theme speakeasy is hidden inside Bar Clacson. It’s a cozy hideout where you can get the best highballs in Southern California. The menu only has eight cocktails, which includes classic drinks like Jack & Ginger or an Old Fashioned. Look for the “Highball” sign and follow the arrows. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see the vintage Pac-Man and pinball machines.
Black Rabbit Rose, Hollywood
With nightly performances by Magic Castle magicians and décor inspired by famous illusionists like Houdini, the Black Rabbit Rose stays in line with its theme by serving magical cocktails—some drinks are even made on your table out of smoke plumes. Another trick up their sleeve is the legendary jazz club hosted by Fred Durst. Every Thursday, the top musicians in Los Angeles gather for a night of music and magic.La Descarga, Koreatown
With a rum-soaked cocktail menu, a designated cigar lounge, and lots of salsa dancing, this ultra-secret speakeasy is a celebration of 1950s Havana. You can always hop on a flight to Cuba, but in the meantime, La Descarga is the next best thing. Getting in is pretty standard—make a reservation, then look for a plain door on Western Ave. If you know the password, the host will take you to an office and then to a closet, which is where this tiny bar is situated.
Seventy7 Lounge, Culver City
To find this Parisian-themed speakeasy, you’ll have to wander down a back alley, but on nights featuring live jazz and burlesque dancers, it’s totally worth it. The vintage décor, including antique chandeliers, crushed velvet walls, and an absinthe fountain, gives it a classy Old World vibe. When you see a neon sign that says “Cocktails,” you’ll know you’ve come to the right place.
Jackalope, Downtown Los Angeles
Situated inside Seven Grand, this exclusive bar takes whiskey tasting to a whole new level of refinement and sophistication. You’ll get to sample rare, hard-to-find whiskey that you can’t find anywhere else. If you call ahead for reservations, it’s easy to get in. Just look for an unmarked door in the back and ring the doorbell. If you become a member, you can even secure your own whiskey locker.
How to get there?
If you’re in the mood for a late night cocktail on the down low, put on your 20s garb, gather your entourage, and feel like the cat’s pajamas in the best (and most secretive) speakeasies in SoCal.
Whichever speakeasy you choose to visit (or visit them all!), here’s the rub: When it comes to alcohol, don’t take any chances with your family, friends, or colleagues. The simplest way to enjoy yourselves and avoid problems is to get someone else to do the driving for you. So, party like a responsible bootlegger and book a minibus rental to act as your Designated Driver. They might not be dressed in 1920s garb, but they’ll get your group safely to and from your destinations.
