What is a Speakeasy and Where Can You Find One in Chicago?

Speakeasies are bars, clubs and nightclubs that originated during the era of Prohibition in the United States. These establishments were dedicated to providing customers with banned beverages such as alcohol, allowing them to enjoy drinks without breaking the law. Speakeasies are often operated illegally, as they do not comply with food, beverage, and alcohol laws that are in place in the United States.

Speakeasies have always been popular in major cities across the United States, and many exist in the city of Chicago. There is a thriving underground bar scene in the Windy City, with plenty of speakeasies that give visitors the opportunity to enjoy some fantastic drinks within a unique atmosphere.

In this article, we will explore what a speakeasy is, give an overview of some of the best speakeasies in Chicago and provide advice on how to visit them. We will also provide details on a fantastic 3-hour private Speakeasy Cocktail VIP Tour that gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy an array of speakeasy drinks in multiple venues across the city.

What Is a Speakeasy?

A speakeasy is an illegal bar or nightclub that originated during the period of Prohibition in the United States between 1919 and 1933. These establishments served banned alcoholic beverages such as liquor, beer and wine to customers, even though that was illegal under the law at the time.

To keep their businesses running, speakeasy operators used to implement a variety of clever tactics to avoid detection by the authorities. A popular approach was to covertly operate out of a seemingly innocuous location, such as a cafe or a butcher’s store. Some venues were situated underground, using tunnels or cellars for storage and to keep their operations difficult for law enforcement officers to find.

Entry to speakeasies was often conducted using secret passwords and symbols, catering to only specific customers in an attempt to conceal their activities from the authorities. This gave speakeasies an air of exclusivity and romance.

Some of the Best Speakeasies in Chicago

In the present day, speakeasies are no longer illegal, but they have retained their unique atmosphere and character. The city of Chicago has a thriving underground bar scene that includes some fantastic speakeasies that make for a great night out.

The Violet Hour

The Violet Hour is regarded as one of the best bars in Chicago offering unique cocktails and an intimate atmosphere. This North side venue has a 1920s vibe with velvet drapes, low lighting and artwork adorning the walls. The bar staff are highly knowledgeable and passionate about what they do and their concoctions are incredibly tasty and imaginative. The Violet Hour also provides a food menu so that you can nibble as you sip away. Learn more about The Violet Hour at theviolethour.com.

The Drifter

The Drifter is a lounge that contains different rooms, each with its own atmosphere and decor. There is the “Jungle Room’ equipped with red velvet and plants that exude a tropical vibe, as well as the “Motherland Room’ with its fun black-and-white motif and wooden tables. You will be able to choose from tiki drinks, craft beer or wine when you visit The Drifter. Find out more at thedrifterchicago.com.

Lost Lake

Lost Lake is definitely worth checking out if you appreciate tiki cocktails. This small venue located in Logan Square has some fun decor featuring tiki heads painted on the wall and bar stools in the shape of small boats that suspend from the ceiling! You will be able to enjoy drinks inspired by Polynesian flavors as you take in your surroundings. Head over to lostlaketiki.com for more details on Lost Lake.

The Office

The Office evokes a traditional 1920s office environment with typewriters, vintage telephones and mahogany furniture which helps the venue stay true to its roots and makes for an interesting backdrop for your evening’s festivities. Drink options include Daiquiris and Margaritas, plus there is an array of shots available such as Tequila Bohemio and Tiger Tail—both of which pack a punch! To find out more about this spot, go to rosetheplaybar.com/the-office.

Enjoy Speakeasy Drinks Across Multiple Venues with the 3-Hour Private Speakeasy Cocktail Tour

If you would like to experience all of these amazing speakeasy drinks across multiple venues while learning more about their origins, then the 3-Hour Private Speakeasy Cocktail VIP Tour is perfect for you.

This tour will give you access to three speakeasies throughout Chicago via a vehicle with a professional driver and guide who will provide commentary along the journey about the historical context during Prohibition when these venues would have been functioning as illegal bars. Once at each location you will be provided with two signature cocktails for two rounds of drinks each during your visit, allowing you to sample all of the delicious offerings from each bar without having to worry about getting from place to place yourself!

Additionally you will get exclusive access to parts of the venues which are usually kept private for regular customers, giving you added value when booking this tour. To top it off you will also get together an amazing group of people who share your same interests, broadening your network while also gaining insight into these historic bars thanks to your tour guide who knows all about Speakeasies inside out!

So why not book Chicago’s 3-Hour Private Speakeasy Cocktail VIP Tour and enjoy an authentic experience while tasting beautiful cocktails at some of Chicago’s best speakeasies?

As we have seen, speakeasies have deep roots in American culture; these underground venues have been giving drinkers access to banned beverages since 1919! In spite Chicago no longer being under Prohibition laws, there remains a vibrant culture of speakeasies throughout the city which provide innovative drinks alongside an elegant atmosphere making them great places for any evening out!

Whether you are looking for something unique while also staying safe during this pandemic period or simply exploring Chicago’s wild drinking habits from decades ago, visiting some of its best speakeasies will provide you with entertainment, exciting drinks and more importantly get you back in touch with history!