Sssh! 10 Sultry Speakeasy Bars in Los Angeles

The modern speakeasy pays homage to the 1920s when alcohol was illegal. Liquid demand drove underground services and discrete, hidden bars and lounges were born. And why speakeasy? Because it is what bartenders used to politely tell their clients to do, “Speak Easy” aka shut up.

Almost like a sequel to the times bygone, the speakeasy scene is now as strong as ever, owing to the crowded scene-to-be-scene spots that flock every metropolis. To gain entrance and avoid unwarranted suspicion, make sure to know your favorite speakeasy spots before they become the next big date spot or tourist escape, plunging their entire nature. A shortlist in Los Angeles.


Adults Only
@adultsonlybar
As the name suggests, it isn't for the faint hearted. Going through a throwback video store's X-rated section with a sign “ADULTS ONLY” is a full bar with DJ sets, a pool table and a divey vibe that is chill on the early side and clubby on the later side.


Black Rabbit Rose
@blackrabbitrose
Literally, follow the rabbit. Tucked beneath a rabbit sign is a magic-themed bar featuring surprises at every turn. There are leather booths, red curtains, magic shows, theatrics, and even more, including spirited cocktails.



Blind Barber
@blindbarber
With a plain entrance to a barbershop, the back of this storefront transforms into a dark and active bar. Unique drinks are juxtaposed with black and white theatre style tiles on a worn floor, speaking of character from the 20s.


Del Monte Speakeasy at TownHouse
@townhousevenice
Funny thing here is that Townhouse is already a bar in Venice’s hipster town. However, in the basement is yet another bar in a bar! One of the oldest bars in Venice, this was a real speakeasy in 1915. For that alone, it merits a visit.


La Descarga
@ladescargala
A rum based speakeasy in Hollywood, this one makes things swanky. With vintage dressed patrons and a focus on rums, the literal translation of The Discharge will be sure to knock you out of your timezone. Founders of Guatamala have earthen flavors and hints of sugarcane to remind your of the Dominican, with a secret cigar bar further in the dark depths of the back.


The Edison
@theedisondtla
A converted electric plant in the basement of the Higgins Building, this one is complete with vintage hardware that is in juxtaposition with the beyond formal dress code. With its 1920s industrialism décor, this is one big space, with the option to gaze at vintage black and white films projected onto construction walls as you sip a strong cocktail.


Employees Only
@employeesonlyla
A fake storefront that leads to a psychic business on one side and a lounge bar on the other, deco-inspired with wood paneled dining rooms, strong cocktails, home made syrups, rare liquors, and a 20s inspired dinner menu... plus a speakeasy inside a speakeasy called Henry's Room.


No Vacancy
@novacancyla
Tucked into an Old Hollywood hotel, on to room 1902, past the girl on the bed and into a charming bar labeled “ALL YOUR PLEASURES.” Strong cocktails, burlesque acts and live music await in the back.


The Roger Room
@therogeroom
Tucked behind a tarot card signage on a dicey street between WeHo and Beverly Hills is the Roger Room, Roger being Yes! For you say yes to anything that the charming bartenders pour, including a signature drink with Japanese liquor and frothy egg whites on which they craft cinnamon shapes, signs and gestures. Make sure to check out the bathroom signage behind the revolver shaped bar.


The Varnish
@thevarnishbar
Behind the guarded door of Cole’s you’ll find a discrete, dark spot with a swooping chandelier and the musky scent of cologne clad influential folks. Strong cocktails are on point, because if alcohol was illegal, you need that drink to be strong.

LA Speakeasy
Pin Me!


No comments: