20+ Best Speakeasies in NYC (As Loved by Locals)

Concealed behind an unassuming storefront on Eldridge Street, Attaboy is the ultimate speakeasy experience in New York.

Marked only by an old "M&H Tailors Alterations" sign, this intimate bar keeps the spirit of its legendary predecessor, Milk & Honey, alive with a commitment to craft cocktails and a welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere.

Unlike most cocktail bars, Attaboy operates without a menu. Instead, the expert bartenders engage with guests to create custom drinks based on their preferences.

In the mood for something zesty and refreshing, bold, or smoky? Let these guys know and they’ll whip up a one-of-a-kind concoction tailored to your taste.

However, some classics have earned a permanent place in Attaboy’s lore, including the Penicillin—a mix of Scotch, honey-ginger syrup, and lemon—and the Paper Plane, an irresistible blend of bourbon, amaro, and Aperol.

P.S. Given its reputation as one of the best speakeasies in NYC, Attaboy fills up quickly. The bar operates on a first-come, first-served basis for groups of six or fewer, so arriving early is key.

Address: 134 Eldridge Street, New York, NY 10002

Opening Hours: Daily | 5:00 pm–3:00 am

If you're looking for a speakeasy with a contemporary edge, Sincerely, Ophelia is a must-visit. Tucked away beneath the sign for its sister establishment, The Chicken & The Egg, this East Village hideaway is a fusion of vibrant art, millennial energy, and innovative cocktails.

The venue’s décor is as much a conversation starter as the drinks—Basquiat-inspired artwork, neon lights, and glow-in-the-dark bathrooms. Unlike traditional speakeasies, which lean into moody and vintage aesthetics, Sincerely, Ophelia embraces modernity, making it a hotspot for young New Yorkers.

Sincerely, Ophelia is best known for its homemade flavored hard seltzers and inventive cocktails. The Moscow Mule hard seltzer delivers a perfect balance of spice and fizz, while the Earth, Wind & Fire combines mezcal or tequila with passionfruit and jalapeño for a bold, smoky kick.

With a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, this speakeasy is perfect for both group outings and solo explorations of NYC’s nightlife.

What to order: Moscow Mule hard seltzer, Earth, Wind & Fire, Chaco Taco’s Revenge Address: 221 2nd Avenue, New York, NY 10003

The Ragtrader & Bo Peep is a speakeasy that pays homage to the tailor shop that once occupied its space. Beneath The Ragtrader restaurant, Bo Peep Cocktail & Highball Store is a stylish piano bar.

Inside, rich red velvet seating, dim lighting, and a handcrafted wooden bar set the stage for an unforgettable night. Live music provides the perfect backdrop for sipping expertly crafted cocktails.

Bo Peep’s cocktail list consists of The Foxy Lady, a zesty blend of lime, raspberry, and rose water—it's a crowd favorite! If you’re after something tropical, Havana Nights—a mix of pineapple rum, Chartreuse Verte, lime, pineapple, and vanilla coconut cream—will transport you straight to paradise.

Pssst! Unlike many speakeasies, Bo Peep also offers a solid food menu. Their Fried Chicken Sliders, served with a tangy sriracha aioli, and the House-Made Sausage Pizza are not to be missed. You can see why it’s one of the best speakeasies in NYC!

What to order: Foxy Lady, Havana Nights, Fried Chicken Sliders, House-Made Sausage Pizza

Address: 70 W 36th Street, New York, NY 10018

One of NYC’s most unique speakeasies is The Hidden Pearl, which is a bright and airy Japanese-inspired speakeasy in the heart of Greenpoint. Located at the back of Wanpaku Ramen, this space delivers creative cocktails with a distinctly Asian twist.

Drinks here are infused with unique ingredients like yuzu, miso, and lemongrass, creating flavor profiles you won’t find anywhere else. The Last Samurai is a standout, blending gin, yuzu, lemongrass, shochu, aloe, lime, Chartreuse, maraschino, cucumber, and egg white into a silky, refreshing drink with a hidden punch.

For an unexpected twist, try the Tom Kha Margarita, which takes inspiration from Thai cuisine with hints of kaffir lime, chili, and coconut. Those looking for something bold should opt for A Screaming Monk, a potent yet smooth cocktail with a sneaky dash of absinthe and strawberry liqueur.

Small plates accompany the drinks. There are bites like steamed clams, fried baby octopus, and crispy rice topped with tuna.

What to order: Last Samurai, A Screaming Monk, Tom Kha Margarita

Address: 621 Manhattan Avenue (inside Wanpaku), Brooklyn, NY 11222

If you love art and cocktails in equal measure, Fig. 19 is your dream NYC speakeasy. This Lower East Side bar is cleverly hidden behind an art gallery, with a simple white door leading to a moody, intimate lounge filled with vintage decor, taxidermy, and candlelight.

The cocktail menu consists of alternative takes on classics, with each drink crafted like a work of art. Expect well-balanced flavors and creative presentations that elevate the entire experience. The bar’s aesthetic is warm and cozy, making it an ideal spot for date nights or a quiet escape from the city’s usually hectic nightlife.

P.S. If you’re a newcomer to NYC’s hidden bar scene then Finding Fig. 19 is going to be half the fun, but once you step inside, you’ll be glad you made the effort.

What to order: Bartender’s choice—trust the experts!

Address: 131 Chrystie Street, New York, NY 10002

Another NYC speakeasy favorite is located beneath Chinatown’s beloved Chinese Tuxedo. Marked by a neon pink sign, the entrance gives way to a space where Gucci’s tiger-patterned wallpaper is illuminated by soft candlelight, and a ceiling covered in cascading peach blossoms.

Peachy’s cocktails are infused with nutrient-dense superfoods like moringa leaves and bok choy. The Buddha’s Belly, a house favorite, is served in a ceramic Buddha-shaped vessel, which is a popular feature of Peachy’s guest’s IG stories.

For those who love fruity cocktails (it can’t just be me!), the Let That Mango delivers ripe mango sweetness with a kick of spicy pepper and aromatic hibiscus tea and the Kiwi Me Softly, has Tanqueray London Dry Gin, kiwi, Green Chartreuse, and lime.

Beyond the cocktails, the bar’s small plates of Pan-Fried Chicken & Mushroom Dumplings and Braised Black Pepper Oxtail Buns deliver bold flavors that perfectly complement the drinks.

An interesting detail about Peachy’s is that it has become a low-key celebrity hotspot, making it an ideal spot for an upscale, lively night out. Just remember the house rules: “No photos. No fighting.”

Address: 5 Doyers Street, New York, NY 10013
What to order: It's ALL delicious!

Disguised behind a refrigerator door at the back of a Mexican grocery store in Brooklyn, Mezcalería La Milagrosa is one of NYC’s more intimate speakeasies dedicated to the art of mezcal.

The dimly lit space, illuminated by a glowing disco ball, sets the stage for an evening of smooth agave spirits and curated music. With a vintage jukebox and live DJs spinning on select nights, the bar combines a relaxed, old-school charm with a vibrant, modern energy.

The cocktail menu at La Milagrosa is an homage to mezcal and tequila, featuring drinks that highlight the smoky, earthy qualities of these spirits. The Mezcal Mule puts a bold twist on the classic Moscow Mule, incorporating mezcal’s signature smokiness and The New Fashioned offers a sophisticated update on the traditional Old Fashioned.

Top Tip: Due to its exclusivity, reservations are recommended to secure a spot in this cozy, NYC speakeasy.

Address: 149 Havemeyer Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211
What to order: Mezcal Mule, New Fashioned, Margarita Jamaica

Located in the East Village, SAINT offers a dual-concept experience: an elegant fine dining restaurant upstairs and a sultry, neon-lit speakeasy known as “SAINT Downstairs” below. Gaining access to the lower level feels like stepping into an exclusive hideaway, where moody lighting, plush seating, and a central disco ball create an effortlessly cool atmosphere.

On the cocktail front, The Gins N Roses is a standout, balancing floral and herbal notes, while the Swan Song, served in a swan-shaped glass, is as much a conversation piece as it is a drink. The bar also hosts DJ sets, turning the space into a lively underground dance venue for those looking to sip and sway into the late hours.

Though SAINT has quickly become one of the hardest-to-access speakeasies in NYC, the introduction of a reservation system has made securing entry slightly easier.

Address: 136 2nd Ave, New York, NY
What to order: Gins N Roses, Swan Song

Apotheke has two locations: its original Chinatown outpost and a NoMad location offering a similarly refined experience. The one in Chinatown is an opulent speakeasy in NYC that takes inspiration from old European apothecaries.

Housed in a former opium den, the bartenders don pharmacist coats while crafting cocktails designed to “cure” your ailments. For example, the cocktail menu is divided into categories like “Pain Killers,” “Aphrodisiacs,” and “Stress Relievers”.

Gaining entry can be tricky, as the bar enforces a sophisticated dress code and an air of mystery, but for those who make it inside, the reward is one of the most unique speakeasy experiences in NYC.

Addresses: Chinatown – 9 Doyers St | NoMad – 9 W 26th St
What to order: Dead Poet, Pink Panther

Hidden behind the neon-lit sign: "PSYCHIC", Employees Only is the kind of NYC speakeasy where mystery and mastery meet—it's giving secret society, with bartenders in crisp white jackets and locals sipping glamorous cocky-ts.

Their Manhattan Cocktail—given a twist with Grand Marnier—is a must-try, while the Amelia, with Haku Vodka and fresh blackberry purée, offers a floral yet fruity delight.

Feeling bold? The Lazy Lover, with jalapeño-infused green chartreuse, brings a fiery kick. With a no-reservations policy for cocktails, be ready to wait—but trust us, it’s worth it.

If you need a snack, the Bone Marrow Poppers are legendary.

Address: 510 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014

What to order: Amelia, Manhattan Cocktail, The Lazy Lover

What’s cooler than a speakeasy? A speakeasy inside a subway station. Hidden in plain sight at the 28th Street stop, La Noxe is one of NYC’s most exclusive cocktail dens. Finding it is half the adventure—descend the staircase, stop before the turnstiles, and knock twice on the black door to unlock your subterranean sanctuary.

The drinks here are as creative as their location. Try the Secret Garden (mezcal, kale, chili salt) for a smoky, savory experience, or the playfully named More Passion More Problems, which delivers a tropical punch with vodka and passionfruit liqueur.

Heads Up: With space for only 30 guests, getting in is no easy feat, but those who manage it are in for an unforgettable night!

Address: 315 7th Avenue, Subway Staircase to Train 1 Local

What to order: Secret Garden, More Passion More Problems

Ever walked into an ice cream shop only to find one of the best speakeasies in NYC? Welcome to The UES, a secret bar masquerading as a dessert spot.

To enter, head to the ice cream counter and utter the magic words: “I’d like to visit the storage room.” Behind the freezer door lies a sophisticated hideaway with Prohibition-era decor and an ultra-fun cocktail menu.

Drinks here are ultra delicious. The Next Stop Is Hunter College comes served in a cone-shaped glass, packed with spiced rum, chocolate stout, and cookie spread. If you’re in the mood for something elegant, UES is Happy to Serve You mixes bourbon, maraschino liqueur, and chocolate wine for a rich, indulgent sip.

Oh, and you can order ice cream with your drinks—what’s not to love?

Address: 1707 2nd Avenue, New York, NY 10128

What to order: The Next Stop Is Hunter College and UES is Happy to Serve You are the dessert cocktails you didn’t know you needed!

By day, it’s a quiet coffee shop. By night, it’s one of New York’s most electrifying speakeasies—both in theme and execution. Located in the historic Radio Wave Building, where Nikola Tesla once worked, Patent Pending takes inspiration from the mad genius himself with candlelit tables and science-inspired decor.

The menu is divided into four categories: Energy, Frequency, Vibration, and Descent. The Light Me Up cocktail, with bourbon and absinthe, lives up to its name, while Currents and Coils brings together tequila, watermelon, and Thai chili for a shocking twist.

To enter, punch "4-9-2-7-#" into the keypad at the back of the café.

Address: 49 West 27th St, New York, NY 10001

What to order: Light Me Up, Currents and Coils

Named after the 1896 Raines Law, which was meant to curb alcohol consumption but instead gave rise to sneaky drinking establishments, Raines Law Room channels old-school elegance with a side of mischief. Enter via an unmarked door, ring the bell, and hope the host deems you worthy of entry into this plush, dimly lit retreat.

With velvet sofas, candlelight, and call buttons at each table to summon your server, the atmosphere is pure speakeasy magic. Drinks lean classic but with a modern flair—the Brown Derby, featuring bourbon, grapefruit, and honey, is a smooth and citrusy favorite.

Tip: Arrive early or be prepared to wait, because this spot fills up fast.

Address: 48 West 17th St, New York, NY 10011

What to order: Brown Derby

If you want a true Prohibition-era experience, The Back Room is the real deal. One of New York’s few remaining speakeasies from the 1920s, this place still serves drinks in teacups—just as they did during the days of bootlegging.

The decor is all chandeliers, velvet armchairs, and secret passageways (yes, really), while the drinks are expertly crafted. Their take on the classic Old Fashioned is a must-try, and if you’re feeling fancy, the Speakeasy Spritz blends Aperol, prosecco, and a hint of elderflower.

Just so you know… finding The Back Room isn’t straightforward; after locating a nondescript gate on Norfolk Street, head down a dark alley, up a set of stairs, and step into a vintage time capsule.

P.S. Once inside, look for the hidden bookshelf door leading to an even more secret VIP room!

Address: 102 Norfolk St, New York, NY 10002

What to order: Speakeasy Spritz

At first glance, The Garret West is just another Five Guys on Bleecker Street, churning out glorious, greasy burgers. But venture through the burger joint and head up a discreet staircase, and you’ll stumble upon one of New York’s best-kept speakeasy secrets.

Unlike the usual dimly lit speakeasy vibe, The Garret West bathes in natural light, thanks to its skylights and large windows. It’s cozy, yet vibrant—perfect for an intimate date or a laid-back catch-up with friends. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a fireplace and plush seating.

Sip on the Spikey Westchester (tequila, lime, pineapple, habanero, and mint) for a fiery kick, or try The First Lady (gin, matcha green tea, lemon, egg white, and fresh basil) if you’re in the mood for something smooth and refined.

Do as the locals do and grab a Five Guys burger downstairs and pair it with your drink of choice for the ultimate indulgence.

Address: 296 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014-3425
What to order: Spikey Westchester, The First Lady

Beneath a patisserie on 23rd Street lies Thyme Bar, an underground speakeasy—literally! Once a gambling den, this subterranean bar is decorated with exposed brick, moody lighting, and vintage décor. Today, it is one of the most atmospheric spots in New York for a sophisticated night out.

The bartenders here don’t just make drinks—they’re making edible art. From the Flower Bomb to the Primrose & Rye, the cocktails at Thyme Bar are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Some even come with unexpected surprises, like the alcoholic iced tea served in a golden genie lamp.

Address: 20 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10010

What to order: Flower Bomb, Primrose & Rye

Step right up! Basement is a carnival-themed speakeasy in Chinatown that adds a playful energy to the speakeasy scene, with games, a laid-back vibe, and cocktails that pack a serious punch.

On the menu, the Chinatown Old Fashioned features popcorn-infused Hibiki Japanese whisky, creating an unexpected yet delightful salty twist. If you’re a bubble tea fan, the HK Milk Punch is your dream drink, packing rich, creamy sweetness with a touch of spice. And for those who love a zesty, refreshing kick, the Shanghai Mule reinvents the classic Moscow Mule with vodka, goji berry, house ginger, lime, and sparkling water.

Between sips, challenge your friends to a game (inspired by Hong Kong game bars). It’s a speakeasy that doesn’t take itself too seriously—just seriously fun.

Address: 45 Mott St, New York, NY 10013

What to order: HK Milk Punch, Shanghai Mule

New York City’s subway system is full of surprises, but Nothing Really Matters might just be the best one yet. Tucked away in a Midtown subway station, this moody, neon-lit speakeasy is a world away from the chaos above ground.

The entrance is like something out of a movie—descend into the subway, pass the commuters, and find yourself in a chic cocktail bar with walls lined with illuminated bottles and a disco ball dangling from the ceiling.

Try the Fearless Girl, a pear-and-apple gin concoction with a hint of spice, or their take on an Espresso Martini, made with the rare Patrón Sherry Cask Tequila for an extra layer of vanilla and caramel richness. For something refreshing, go for Time Out, a mix of Jamaican hibiscus, ginger, and soda that balances citrusy tartness with a spicy zing.

If you’re looking for a truly unique speakeasy experience in New York, Nothing Really Matters is the place to be. Just don’t be surprised if you miss your train—you’ll want to stay for just one more drink!

Address: In The Subway, 210 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019

What to order: Fearless Girl, Time Out

By day, it’s just another coffee shop—the kind of place where locals sip lattes and tap away on their laptops. But when night falls, something magical happens at Stone Street Coffee in Chelsea. Step past the counter, push through a discreet door, and you’ll find yourself in a sultry, 1920s-style speakeasy: Bathtub Gin.

True to its name, Bathtub Gin celebrates all things gin, serving up gin and tonics alongside adventurous cocktails with a modern twist. Of course, good drinks deserve good food, and Bathtub Gin delivers. Try their delicate crudo and indulgent beef tartare and don’t even think about skipping dessert—because who can say no to cookies and milk?

And then there’s the entertainment. This isn’t just a place to drink. Most nights, you’ll find live jazz setting the mood, but if you time your visit just right, you might catch a full-blown burlesque performance.

Address: 132 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011

What to order: Banananana Manhattan, Harlem Sunset

At first glance, you might walk right past Little Branch without even realizing it’s there. No flashy sign, no neon lights—just a plain steel door on the corner of Leroy Street and 7th Avenue. But for those in the know, that door is the gateway to one of the coziest and most authentic speakeasies in NYC.

Descend a flight of stairs, and you’ll find yourself in a dimly lit, intimate den where the bartenders wear suspenders, the cocktails are nothing short of perfection, and the atmosphere is as smooth as the jazz piano playing in the background.

The cocktails are made with fresh juices, hand-cut ice, and top-shelf spirits. Want something refreshing? Try the Grapefruit Collins, a citrusy twist on the beloved Tom Collins. Craving something rich? The Pan American Clipper blends applejack, absinthe, and grenadine for a drink that packs a serious punch.

Little Branch keeps things classy with some old-school house rules—no shouting, no fighting, and definitely no loitering by the door. It makes you feel as though you’ve stepped into the golden age of prohibition—minus the actual prohibition.

Be warned: the space is small, and waits can be long, so get there early if you want to snag a seat.

Address: 22 7th Ave S, New York, NY 10014-3917

What to order: Grapefruit Collins, The Bees Knees

Imagine this: You walk into a no-frills hot dog joint, Crif Dogs, order a side of fries, and then—like a scene straight out of a spy movie—step into an old-fashioned phone booth. You pick up the receiver, dial a number, and suddenly, the back wall swings open.

Welcome to Please Don’t Tell, one of NYC’s most famous (and cleverly hidden) speakeasies.

PDT is the perfect blend of casual and upscale, where you can sip a top-tier craft cocktail while sitting amongst taxidermy animals and rustic furniture. The drinks menu has everything from the Hiccup (a refreshing mix of tequila, honey, and ginger) to the Cherry Bomb (a sweet and spicy bourbon concoction).

And here’s the kicker: you can pair your expertly crafted cocktail with a gourmet hot dog from Crif Dogs next door. They’ve got your greasy cravings covered with bacon-wrapped goodness, spicy toppings, and the kind of indulgent comfort food that pairs unexpectedly well with a sophisticated cocktail.

Reservations are highly recommended, as PDT’s limited seating makes it one of the toughest speakeasies to get into!

Address: 113 Saint Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009

What to order: Cherry Bomb, Hiccup