Boston’s speakeasy scene, rich with history and allure, offers an exciting array of clandestine bars that transport patrons back to the Prohibition era. If you’re looking to discover some of the city’s most elusive and enchanting drinking spots, you’ve come to the right place. From glamorous cocktail lounges to hidden retreats with unique themes, Boston’s speakeasies are not just places to grab a drink—they are experiences in themselves. Here’s an in-depth look at the best Boston speakeasies you should visit.
Backbar
Nestled in Somerville, Backbar is a celebrated gem in Boston’s speakeasy landscape. Hidden behind a seemingly unassuming façade, this spot is renowned for its inventive cocktails and cozy, intimate atmosphere. The menu features a variety of craft cocktails, each meticulously prepared using fresh ingredients and creative techniques. The ambiance is enhanced by a vintage decor that complements its secretive nature. For an exclusive experience, visit on a quieter weekday when you can truly appreciate the bar’s hidden charm and excellent service.
Bodega Canal
Bodega Canal is a sophisticated speakeasy that combines the elegance of a bygone era with modern flair. Accessed through a discreet entrance, this speakeasy is known for its refined cocktails and plush interiors. The venue boasts a selection of classic and contemporary drinks, expertly crafted by skilled mixologists. The dim lighting and opulent decor create a luxurious setting, making it an ideal spot for a special night out or a quiet conversation away from the bustling city.
Brick & Mortar
Brick & Mortar offers a blend of rustic charm and urban sophistication. Located in the heart of Boston, this speakeasy prides itself on its laid-back yet stylish atmosphere. The menu features a variety of handcrafted cocktails and a selection of small bites that perfectly complement the drinks. The exposed brick walls and vintage furnishings create a warm, inviting environment where patrons can relax and enjoy expertly crafted beverages.
Butcher Shop
The Butcher Shop is a unique speakeasy that combines the charm of a traditional butcher shop with the allure of a hidden bar. This venue stands out for its creative approach to cocktails and its unique concept. The bar offers a range of innovative drinks, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and bold flavors. The atmosphere is both casual and sophisticated, making it a great spot for both relaxed gatherings and special celebrations.
Carrie Nation Cocktail Club
Named after the famous Prohibition-era temperance advocate, the Carrie Nation Cocktail Club is a tribute to the era’s rebellious spirit. This speakeasy is known for its classic cocktails and vintage ambiance. The bar’s interior reflects the grandeur of the Roaring Twenties, with elegant furnishings and a refined atmosphere. The menu includes a range of traditional and contemporary cocktails, all prepared with precision and flair.
Drink
Drink is a renowned speakeasy that has gained acclaim for its artisanal approach to cocktails. The bar’s emphasis on craft and creativity makes it a standout destination in Boston’s speakeasy scene. Patrons can enjoy a wide range of cocktails, each made with carefully selected ingredients and innovative techniques. The minimalist decor and open layout create a welcoming environment, allowing guests to fully appreciate the artistry of the drinks.
Hecate
Hecate offers a mysterious and enchanting experience for those seeking a taste of Boston’s speakeasy culture. The bar’s dark, atmospheric interior is designed to evoke the mystique of the Prohibition era. With a menu featuring a selection of imaginative cocktails and a focus on unique flavor profiles, Hecate is a destination for adventurous drinkers. The attentive staff and immersive setting ensure a memorable visit.
Ivory Pearl
Ivory Pearl stands out for its luxurious decor and sophisticated cocktail offerings. This speakeasy combines elegance with a touch of glamour, creating a refined environment for its patrons. The menu features an array of high-end cocktails, each crafted with precision and creativity. The opulent furnishings and ambient lighting contribute to the bar’s upscale vibe, making it a perfect choice for a special evening out.
Lion’s Tail
Lion’s Tail offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular choice among Boston’s speakeasy enthusiasts. The bar’s warm, rustic decor and friendly staff create a relaxed environment where patrons can enjoy a variety of expertly crafted cocktails. The menu features both classic and contemporary drinks, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or simply looking for a comfortable spot to unwind, Lion’s Tail delivers a satisfying experience.
Mariel Underground
Mariel Underground is a hidden oasis that blends elegance with a touch of intrigue. Accessed through a discreet entrance, this speakeasy offers a range of expertly crafted cocktails and a chic, sophisticated ambiance. The bar’s menu includes both classic and inventive drinks, each prepared with high-quality ingredients. The stylish decor and attentive service make Mariel Underground a top choice for those seeking a refined drinking experience.
Offsuit
Offsuit combines a laid-back vibe with a creative approach to cocktails. This speakeasy is known for its casual atmosphere and inventive drink menu. The bar’s relaxed setting and friendly staff create a welcoming environment, while the cocktails are crafted with skill and originality. Whether you’re looking for a casual night out or a place to enjoy unique beverages, Offsuit offers a satisfying experience.
Noir
Noir offers a sophisticated and intimate setting for those seeking a refined speakeasy experience. The bar’s dark, elegant decor and expertly crafted cocktails create a luxurious atmosphere. The menu features a selection of classic and contemporary drinks, each prepared with precision and care. Noir’s attentive service and upscale ambiance make it a standout destination in Boston’s speakeasy scene.
Wink & Nod
Wink & Nod is a hidden gem known for its eclectic decor and creative cocktails. The bar’s unique atmosphere and innovative drink menu make it a popular choice for those seeking a memorable night out. The menu features a variety of inventive cocktails, each crafted with fresh ingredients and a touch of flair. Wink & Nod’s distinctive vibe and excellent service ensure a unique and enjoyable experience.
Yvonne’s
Yvonne’s offers a blend of sophistication and charm, making it a favorite among Boston’s speakeasy enthusiasts. The bar’s elegant decor and refined cocktail menu create a luxurious environment for patrons. The menu includes a range of classic and contemporary drinks, each prepared with skill and attention to detail. Yvonne’s stylish setting and exceptional service make it a top choice for those seeking a high-end speakeasy experience.
The Wig Shop
The Wig Shop is a hidden gem that combines a relaxed atmosphere with a creative approach to cocktails. The bar’s casual decor and inventive drink menu make it a popular choice for those looking for a unique experience. The menu features a variety of cocktails, each crafted with fresh ingredients and a touch of originality. The Wig Shop’s friendly staff and laid-back vibe create a welcoming environment for all.
Bully Boy Distillers
Bully Boy Distillers offers a unique speakeasy experience with a focus on high-quality spirits. The bar’s relaxed setting and excellent selection of cocktails make it a favorite among Boston’s speakeasy scene. The menu features a range of creative drinks, each made with carefully selected ingredients and skillful preparation. Bully Boy Distillers’ distinctive atmosphere and attentive service ensure a memorable visit.
Modern Underground
Modern Underground blends contemporary style with a touch of classic charm. The bar’s sleek decor and innovative cocktail menu create a sophisticated atmosphere for patrons. The menu includes a variety of expertly crafted drinks, each prepared with a focus on fresh ingredients and creative techniques. Modern Underground’s stylish setting and exceptional service make it a standout destination in Boston’s speakeasy scene.
Saloon
Saloon offers a blend of rustic charm and upscale sophistication. The bar’s cozy interior and inventive drink menu create a welcoming environment for patrons. The menu features a selection of creative cocktails, each crafted with high-quality ingredients and attention to detail. Saloon’s relaxed vibe and friendly staff make it a popular choice for a casual night out.
Bogie’s Place
Bogie’s Place combines a vintage atmosphere with a focus on classic cocktails. The bar’s elegant decor and refined drink menu create a sophisticated setting for patrons. The menu includes a range of traditional and contemporary cocktails, each prepared with skill and precision. Bogie’s Place’s stylish ambiance and excellent service make it a top choice for those seeking a high-end speakeasy experience.
Lucky’s Lounge
Lucky’s Lounge offers a lively and vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular choice among Boston’s speakeasy enthusiasts. The bar’s energetic vibe and creative drink menu create an exciting environment for patrons. The menu features a variety of inventive cocktails, each crafted with fresh ingredients and a touch of flair. Lucky’s Lounge’s dynamic setting and friendly service ensure a memorable experience.
Supper Club at Capo
Supper Club at Capo combines a chic atmosphere with a focus on high-quality cocktails. The bar’s stylish decor and refined drink menu create a luxurious environment for patrons. The menu includes a range of classic and contemporary cocktails, each prepared with attention to detail. Supper Club at Capo’s upscale vibe and exceptional service make it a standout destination in Boston’s speakeasy scene.
GrandTen Bar
GrandTen Bar offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere with a focus on craft cocktails. The bar’s casual decor and creative drink menu make it a popular choice for those seeking a unique experience. The menu features a variety of inventive cocktails, each made with high-quality ingredients and skillful preparation. GrandTen Bar’s friendly staff and laid-back vibe create a welcoming environment for all.
A4cade
A4cade blends retro charm with a focus on creative cocktails. The bar’s nostalgic decor and inventive drink menu create a fun and lively environment for patrons. The menu includes a range of unique cocktails, each crafted with fresh ingredients and a touch of originality. A4cade’s playful vibe and excellent service ensure a memorable visit.
Stanza dei Sigari
Stanza dei Sigari offers a refined and exclusive experience, ideal for those seeking a sophisticated speakeasy in the heart of Boston. This cigar bar and lounge is tucked away in the North End, providing a luxurious retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The interior exudes old-world charm with its dark wood paneling, plush seating, and atmospheric lighting. The cocktail menu is extensive, featuring classic drinks as well as innovative concoctions that pair perfectly with their fine selection of cigars. Stanza dei Sigari’s combination of elegance and exclusivity makes it a must-visit for any speakeasy aficionado.