3 Speakeasies in NYC to Take You Back in Time

Sometimes the Big City experiences you’re looking for aren’t above ground - but they are on a totally different timeline. Sure, modern NYC life is fun, but these speakeasies are sure to transport you out of the 2020s hustle and back to the nouveau aesthetics of the 1920s.

NOT a Speakeasy

I know what you’re thinking - “the name clearly states that it is absolutely NOT a speakeasy.” But try to keep up.

Really though, this place is a super cool and new Upper East Side gem. Just walk down the stairs on 84th & 2nd and open the door with an NYC map on in. They opened a few months ago, and the ambiance is something between 1920s New York and Alice in Wonderland. There’s fabulous, colorful Victorian chairs reaching for the ceiling, a mural of 20th century NYC icons, and not to mention insane drink options. I opted for “Pills and Potions” which comes in a crystal coupe glass with a fake pill bottle that’s filled with sour skittles. My friend got some drink in a giant Lego. Someone had a fake Oscar Award as a drink.

There’s a small dance floor with a disco ball, and I have to say, the DJ was hitting the right vibe with the early 2000s throwbacks the night we were there.

The Backroom

I usually don’t tell people to go down random stairs and into a creepy alleyway, but when I do, it’s to find this spot that feels the most like an authentic prohibition speakeasy. Adorned with sultry flapper paintings, antique furniture, and drinks served in teacups, you’re sure to be transported back in time by 100 years.

While there is plenty of floor space, people aren’t dancing a lot (unless they’re already drunk). But it is a good spot for music, talking to your friends, and meeting new friends. If you check this spot out, I suggest the Pink Slipper cocktail.

Find this shindig between The Poetry Brothel and La Contenenta, right above the east side of Delancey Street. You’re just gonna have to find a random metal gate and walk into the alleyway - trust me. Or don’t. You don’t know me, to be fair.

Fig19

I love a place with cute chandeliers. This place in particular also has a fireplace and zebra seats, so I’m not really sure what the theme is, but I do know that they have great drinks, loud music, and lots of dancing!

To get to this location, head to the gallery at 131 Chrystie Street and head up a small staircase (don’t go downstairs or you’ll stumble into the sweatiest armpit of a bar that you’ve ever encountered). Walk to the back of the gallery, open the door, and get figgy with it. Then forgive my terrible pun.