A speakeasy bar concept is a type of establishment that is styled after the clandestine drinking establishments of the Prohibition era. These bars focus heavily on creating a unique atmosphere through the combination of special decor and an exclusive element.
While they may offer a unique, timeless vibe, they also need to be able to provide the same experience as a typical bar.
The core elements of a speakeasy experience include the need for a secret pass code, hidden entryways, and a prohibition-era atmosphere. The decor might feature dim lighting, antique furniture, and vintage accents throughout.
Specialty drinks are typically served with a twist — think classic cocktails with custom ingredients and a modern spin. The drinks may also be served in non-conventional vessels such as ornate teacups and mason jars.
Speakeasy establishments also strive to provide a unique entertainment aspect, usually with live music and dancing.
The idea of a speakeasy bar concept revolves around the act of providing a more private and luxurious experience to the clientele. It creates a sense of mystery and exclusivity that sets speakeasy establishments apart from traditional bars.
This type of establishment is growing in popularity in various cities, so it is important that speakeasies maintain their unique features while also satisfying the needs of their customers.
What is the difference between a speakeasy and a bar?
The term “speakeasy” is used to refer to an illicit bar or nightclub that operates during periods of alcohol prohibition. This would include bars during the period of Prohibition (1920-1933) in the United States, and more recently, speakeasies that operate in certain states and countries with laws against public drunkenness.
In contrast, a bar is a licensed establishment that serves alcoholic beverages.
The main difference between a speakeasy and a bar is their legal status. Speakeasies are not legally recognized and thus do not have to comply with local alcohol laws, while bars are under the regulation of their local government and must adhere to particular laws and regulations.
In addition, speakeasies often provide a more exclusive atmosphere than traditional bars. This is due to their underground or hidden locations, which helps to keep them out of the public eye. This can make it difficult for the authorities to track and shut them down.
By contrast, most bars are located in visible areas that are easily accessible.
Finally, speakeasies typically offer classic cocktails from the era of Prohibition. The drinks on offer are often limited to classic favorites, such as the old-fashioned, Manhattan, and martini. Whereas bars are likely to offer their patrons a much wider range of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and mixed drinks.
What is a modern day speakeasy?
A modern day speakeasy is an establishment that gives customers an exclusive and clandestine dining and drinking experience. These establishments generally reflect the tradition of speakeasies during Prohibition in 1920s America – which were places that served alcoholic drinks illegally.
They often resemble a bar or lounge, but may also range from a unique and upscale private dining room to a secret garden or courtyard. In order to gain access, patrons may have to gain access through a booth, display a secret password or text a phone number to a host.
Once inside, customers enjoy thoughtful food and beverage options that are inspired by an era gone by. Beverages have typically have original and classic cocktails, craft beer and wine options, while food offerings often have elevated examples of American classics or interpretations of old-world dishes.
Despite the secretive nature of the speakeasy, these places can now be found in big cities all over the world – reflecting the resurgence of a timeless, hidden bar culture.
When did speakeasies become a thing?
Speakeasies became a thing in the United States during the 1920s, when Prohibition was in effect. Prohibition, enacted with the 18th Amendment, banned the production, sale, transport, import, and export of alcoholic beverages across America.
The forced lawlessness of this time period gave rise to speakeasies, illicit clubs or bars where people could go to purchase and consume beer, wine, and hard liquor.
These establishments were often referred to as “blind” pigs or “blind” tigers, and they came in a range of sizes, from hidden basements to full-size restaurants. Patrons would enter through secret doors and staircases, typically saying the password “Joe sent me,” to gain access.
Inside, there would be a bar, seating for those drinking and non-drinkers. Speakeasies also often featured live jazz music and dancing.
While speakeasies served as a way for people to flout the law and enjoy their drinks, they were also a place for criminal activity. Those who ran speakeasies typically bribed police officers and could also sell bootleg alcohol (alcohol manufactured without government-issued permits).
Ultimately, speakeasies operated until the end of Prohibition in 1933. In the years since, the romanticism of speakeasies has endured, creating a model for modern cocktail bars that focus on craft drinks, quality spirits, and an immersive experience.
How did speakeasies start?
Speakeasies started during the Prohibition Era of the United States – from 1920-1933. The purpose of the speakeasy was to provide a place for people to drink alcohol during a time when it was illegal to do so.
They were designed to be discreet and often only those in the know would know the location and gain access.
Speakeasies usually were located underground, in basements, and even on rooftops. They were decorated to be extravagant and fashionable but still accommodate guests efficiently. The drinks were inexpensive, but the prices were often negotiable.
The speakeasies were popular places to gather and they featured entertainment such as live jazz bands or performers. It wasn’t uncommon to find celebrities among the regular patrons, as well as politicians, mobsters, and other interesting characters.
Speakeasies were able to operate by bribing law enforcement officials and other influential people. Many of the speakeasy owners had to have deep pockets to bribe government officials and to pay the legal fines often associated with running such establishments.
As it was illegal to serve alcohol, the drinks were often served in teacups or coffee cups. People would sometimes use code words to alert the bartender that they wanted an alcoholic beverage. Today, speakeasies remain popular in certain cities, although now it is legal to drink alcohol in most states.
How much was a drink in a speakeasy?
The cost of drinks in speakeasies during the Prohibition era of the 1920s varied greatly, depending on the establishment and the quality of its liquor. Generally, the drinks were cheaper than those in the saloons and bars that existed before Prohibition.
Popular cocktails such as a Manhattan or a gin rickey were typically about 25 cents. A mug of beer might have been as low as a nickel. But, since bootleg and home-distilled liquor was often used in speakeasies, the quality and price could vary significantly.
Unreliably-manufactured alcohol might cost as little as a dime, but it could also be more expensive than legitimate drinks were in pre-Prohibition times. Some speakeasies even charged a fee to get into the establishment, thus inflating the cost of each drink.
Did they serve food in speakeasies?
Yes, speakeasies often served food. During Prohibition, when it was illegal to sell alcoholic beverages, speakeasies served food as a cover for their true purpose. For example, a speakeasy might serve sandwiches as a way to appear to be a legitimate restaurant.
However, most of these sandwiches were served with alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, and liquor. Aside from sandwiches, some speakeasies served steaks, crab, or fish. Diners often had the option of ordering a full meal or simply a beer or alcoholic drink.
Overall, speakeasies served food, but the primary purpose was to provide a hidden place to drink alcohol.
How do you decorate like a speakeasy?
Decorating like a speakeasy requires a balance between old-fashioned and modern touches to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Start by choosing a color palette that lingers in the old-fashioned style – dark, muted tones like navy, grey, deep red, and black.
With a base color like this, you can add contrast and pops of color with brighter tones like blush, brown, and rust. Incorporate vintage pieces and antiques to really bring the speakeasy vibe to life.
Barrels, old suitcases, jukeboxes – throwing in tangible elements to serve as props and conversation pieces is key. Get creative with your lighting, too – wall sconces, hanging lights, and tea lights can help set the inviting tone.
A few classic touches that can help complete the vintage look are an exposed brick wall, wall paneling, and tufted curtains. To sum it up, when it comes to decorating like a speakeasy, think comfy and cozy, with a hint of vintage charm.
What did people eat at speakeasies?
Speakeasies were illicit bars that popped up during Prohibition in the United States, so the food available at these establishments varied drastically depending on the individual proprietors. Since these establishments were illegal, food was often in limited supply and people typically ate small savory appetizers, snacks, and finger foods.
Popular options included classic dishes such as deviled eggs, olives, pickles, pretzels, and cheese.
In many speakeasies, the drinks were the main event, so the menu of food was often quite limited. However, in more elaborate establishments there were often entire meals available. Popular dishes included macaroni and cheese, chips and dip, sandwiches, and even hamburgers.
Formal dining was often not an option in speakeasies due to the clandestine nature of these establishments; so food was often served in take-out containers and eaten quickly. The most popular snacks could be found in groups at communal tables, while more substantial meals were made to order.
Overall, the food served in speakeasies during Prohibition was minimal and the offerings highly dependent on the proprietors of the establishment. Yet, despite the scarcity of goods, people managed to make due and still enjoy a good meal at their local speakeasy.
What can you do at a 1920s party?
At a 1920s party you can experience a fun, fun filled evening! Dress in your best gowns, suits, and accessories to truly bring the era to life. Then, get ready to dance the night away to the roaring sounds of jazz and light up the room with energy! During the evening, you can enjoy themed games like charades, scavenger hunts, and/or period appropriate card or board games.
Additionally, you could compete in costume competitions or organize a dance contest. If you’re looking to take a break from dancing, grab a mocktail, have a chat, or enjoy a few salon activities like a cigar bar, live music, magic show, or a movie screening.
To top off the night, enjoy a dinner with delicious, traditional dishes like a Gatsby punch, oysters Rockefeller, and an ice sculpture.
How do I get the speakeasy entrance?
In order to gain entry to a speakeasy, you will need to locate it first. Many speakeasies are located in the backroom of existing establishments, or in basements. Additionally, they may be disguised as something else, like a bookstore.
To locate one, you may wish to ask around or do some research online. Some people also refer to speakeasies as “blind pigs” or “blind tigers”. Once you locate one, you will typically need to give a password or phrase before entering.
The password or phrase may be given directly or by way of a riddle. Once you have gained entry, you may be asked to sign a membership ledger, or present some form of identification to gain entrance.
What are the characteristics of a speakeasy?
Speakeasies were bars that operated illegally during the Prohibition era (1920-1933) in the United States. They were typically located in underground locations or other secret areas that could not be easily detected by police or other government officials.
In general, speakeasies were characterized by their dark, discreet atmosphere, as well as their private, exclusive nature. Patrons had to be granted entry through certain doors and back rooms, and they often had to go through the process of knowing a certain password or handshake in order to gain access.
Speakeasies typically served alcoholic beverages, like moonshine and bootleg whiskey, as well as other types of illegal beverages. Since they catered to the underground and illicit culture, they often also served recreational drugs, like marijuana and cocaine.
They typically featured jazz music, as well as other forms of live entertainment. The surrounding vibes in these establishments often had a distinct atmosphere of freedom, rebelliousness, and secrecy.
Speakeasies still exist in some parts of the world today, although they are much less common than during the Prohibition era.
What kind of food was served in speakeasies?
Speakeasies were illegally operated establishments that ran during the period of Prohibition in the United States, 1920-1933. Speakeasies allowed people to enjoy the social atmosphere of bars and pubs despite the ban on alcohol.
With alcohol still being illegally consumed, many of the establishments also served food to satisfy their clientele. Food served in speakeasies ranged from simple snacks like chips and sandwiches to more hearty dishes.
Small hamburgers and sausages were popular choices, as well as larger meals such as steak and potatoes. Many speakeasies served a variety of appetizers such as cheese, olives and pickles. Sandwiches, salads, soups and desserts were also on the menu.
To enhance the dining experience, some speakeasies even served fine wines, champagne and imported beers from abroad.
