Speakeasy culture and speakeasy clubs are back and booming. Historically enshrouded in secrecy from an age when alcohol was illegal, there is an intrigue that draws the modern era in. Call it a romanticism of youthfulness, vitality, and the height of class, under the backdrop of secrecy. What was once a fascinating time in history is now popular again, making way for a new and flourishing type of fun.

So, put on your flapper dresses and fedoras, grab some friends, and dive into the immersive experience of your nearest speakeasy club. From secret entrances to delicious cocktails, here’s what you can expect.

Prohibition and the Rise of Speakeasies

Speakeasies date back to the 1920s, when the 18^th Amendment to the US Constitution outlawed alcohol and the age of Prohibition was born. Though the manufacture, transfer, and sale of alcohol was prohibited, it was hard to enforce. Bootlegging became rampant as the demand for alcohol continued. People smuggled alcohol across borders, used medicinal alcohols, diverted denatured alcohol, and bottled their own concoctions, which were then sold to establishments illegally selling alcoholic beverages to their customers. The speakeasy club was born.

Thousands of speakeasies of varying natures spread throughout New York City and beyond. At Prohibition’s height, it is believed that there were around 32,000 speakeasies in New York alone. A speakeasy club could be the basement of an apartment building or a swanky nightclub often associated with the Roaring ’20s. In New York and Chicago, jazz permeated the scene and created an underground nightclub culture. In the glamorous speakeasy nightclubs, dancing and jazz paired well with bootlegged alcohol.

Though the origin of the term “speakeasy” is not fully known, it’s said to have derived from having to “speakeasy,” or quietly, while inside these illegal bars. The need for secrecy was paramount to avoid detection and subsequent raids. Secret knocks, passwords, and bribes kept them thriving. Corruption within the government and police force enabled speakeasies to avoid raids. Officials and officers willing to take bribes would look the other way and tip them off to planned raids. When this was not enough, speakeasies had methods of hiding the alcohol and providing escape routes for their patrons.

Impact Through the Years

Though a thrilling chapter in the history of illicit alcohol, colorful parties, and organized crime, speakeasies shifted culture and had a lasting impact on modern society. In many ways, modern nightlife has been shaped by speakeasy culture. Prior to prohibition, society was not accepting of women drinking in public. Certain saloons would not permit women to enter nor were they allowed to drink alongside men in other venues. The speakeasy club was different. Encouraged as patrons, speakeasies catered to women with inclusive amenities such as powder rooms, dancing, and dining.

Speakeasies also contributed to the craft cocktail movement now enjoyed today. Alcoholic mixed drinks using other ingredients such as juices, bitters, syrups, and tonic water was popularized during Prohibition. Liquor quality at speakeasies was inferior, so honey, fruit juices, and other flavorings were used to mask the taste. These sweet cocktails were easier to come by and faster to consume. Today, mixed drinks have become a craft.

Though the 21^st Amendment officially repealed Prohibition in 1933 and speakeasies began to fade, their culture has lasted. For many, modern speakeasies provide a welcome relief from loud and overcrowded bars. Stemming from the need to operate without detection, speakeasies created an atmosphere of secrecy, belonging, and intimacy. You had to know the location, have access to a secret knock or passcode to be granted access, and “speak easy” indoors. Not everyone had access, and when you entered a speakeasy, you belonged to a community of like-minded people.

 

 

Modern Age of Speakeasies

Modern speakeasies are an invitation to an alternative nightlife. Though entirely legal, they still provoke a sense of mystery. Patrons enjoy a more intimate and relaxed environment with an eclectic assortment of cocktails. You can socialize with a smaller gathering rather than fighting your way through large crowds and experience a vibrant nightlife without the drowning noise of bar music so loud you cannot engage in conversation. Immerse yourself in the era of the Roaring 20s, known for its class and style, without the seedy underbelly.

Modern speakeasies still provide allure. They are fun and interactive and create a feeling of secrecy and exclusivity without truly barring anyone from the fun. Some require special knocks or passcodes, while others have secret entrances. This allure extends to the atmosphere: discreet and exclusive. The modern speakeasy is designed to offer something different than the typical bar scene.

With vintage décor, handcrafted cocktails, and curated menus, modern speakeasies pair the craft cocktail movement with an exclusive 1920s vibe. Enter a secret bar within a bar for a special menu, find a hidden location or secret door, and enjoy fine drinks with those that are in the know.

Members Only: A New Trend

The current speakeasy club trend centers around discreet locations and themed environments. Some are hidden within restaurants and other venues or have secret doors hidden in plain sight on busy streets. Learn the secret and enter the speakeasy, and you are instantly transported into a bygone era.

Some speakeasy clubs are paving the way for a new trend with their “members only” access. Become a member and enjoy exclusive benefits. Keep the spirit of speakeasies alive with exclusive access and handcrafted spirits. Most membership clubs only require a one-time fee for a lifetime of perks.

One such speakeasy club is on par with this trend. Join Tipsy Putt and have access to their Trophy Club, Northern California’s premiere members-only speakeasy. This fine drinking establishment offers incredible perks for members—you just need to find the hidden entrance (or ask at the host stand for a hint). Experience your favorite handcrafted cocktails in the intimate atmosphere of the modern speakeasy culture. We promise you: it’s the bee’s knees.