4 Hidden Bars in San Diego- Speakeasy Experience
In recent years, speakeasy bars have been making a comeback in many cities throughout the U.S. San Diego is no exception and speakeasies have been popping up all over the city.
What makes speakeasies popular is typically located within a restaurant or bar behind a secret entrance and some even require a secret code to enter. This unique experience began during the prohibition era from 1920 to 1933, when it was illegal to sell alcohol. To get around this law, businesses would sell alcohol in a hidden room, thus the term speakeasy was born.
You are now entering the Realm of The 52 remedies! This speakeasy is located inside Common Theory and near Convoy Street. The inspiration behind this bar is Recipes for Fifty-Two Ailments, an ancient Chinese medical text. When you first arrive, you enter into a small room that mimics a modern herb pharmacy. To enter the bar, you have to wave your hand near the door and then that motion activates the door to open.
Before you go: It's a pretty small space inside, so be sure to make reservations.
What to order: Order one of their featured craft cocktails that are based on different themes. If you are looking to try other drinks, they have an extensive menu so there is something for everyone. They also have a food menu that offers unique small-plate selections
Price: The food price average is $13- $20 per plate. Drink prices vary depending on what you order, but expect to pay at least $15 and up for your drink.
This secret bar is hidden behind a secret keg wall inside Neighborhood, a bar located in the Gaslamp Quarter. If you try to google this speakeasy, all you will find it is a webpage with the letters "NE". The owners keep this place a secret until you arrive.
Before you go: I recommend making reservations. When we went, I didn't make a reservation but we arrived about 15 minutes after they opened and we got a table after a 30-minute wait.
What to order: My favorite thing about this speakeasy is that there is no menu. Yes, you heard right. There is no menu. How do you order a drink then? Well, I'm glad asked. Once you are seated, the bartender will ask you what you want. In my case, she asked me if I wanted something sweet or refreshing. I told her both! I also told her I wanted something with Rum. All I can say is wow! The cocktail was everything! If you are looking to grab a bite to eat, there is no food served here but either before or after you can stop and grab a bite to eat in Neighborhood restaurant.
Price: The price of the drink depends on what you order and because there is no menu, it's hard to give a price range. Our drinks were about $15 each.
This underground speakeasy is serving up specialty cocktails and live music 1920s-style in downtown San Diego. If you are not paying attention you might miss it! Look for the door to the Eddi O'Hare's Law Office.
Location: Downtown San Diego, Gaslamp Quarter
Price: Cocktails start at $18 unless otherwise noted on the menu.
Tips: The dress code is encouraged on Friday and Saturday nights. No reservations, so be sure to get there early.
Photo Credit: San Diego Eater
4. Room 56
This speakeasy requires you to enter through a secret door located in the second-floor library of the Moxy Hotel in downtown San Diego. This is a hidden gem!
Location: Moxy Hotel, Gaslamp Quarter
Tips: Walk-ins are allowed but reservations are recommended. Located inside the Moxy San Diego
Photo Credit: San Diego Eater
Bonus :
This tiki-themed speakeasy is making waves in Pacific Beach. The Grass Skirt is a tiki bar popular for its tropical-inspired cocktails.
Price: Most cocktails start at around $15.
Located in Westfield UTC Mall in La Jolla, this is one of the few speakeasies in the city that is not located in downtown San Diego. The entrance to the bar is located behind a rotating fireplace! Make sure to get your phone ready to record the awesome experience! This place tends to fill up quickly so be sure to make your reservations online.
Price: this is one of the pricier places on this list with drinks starting around $17.
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