10 Speakeasies In Los Angeles That Are The Citys Best Kept Secrets
People like a good bar. The atmosphere. The people. It’s the perfect place for socializing while downing a few cocktails. Add to that the elusiveness of a speakeasy and you have one of LA’s favorite hangouts. Speakeasies have been around LA since Prohibition, but they have never really gone away. They’ve just gotten a modern makeover and are still worth checking out. Here are 10 speakeasies in Los Angeles that are the city’s best kept secrets. Check them out!
1. Blind Barber
The best part of speakeasies are their secret entrances. The Blind Barber provides one of the best by leading you to the backdoor of a barbershop. Once you make it inside, you can enjoy old school drinks and pub food. You’ll be sure to enjoy your time here and maybe even get a haircut to boot!
2. The Red Door
Located in Toluca Lake, this is a bar you’ll only find if you’re in the know. This is because there is no sign to lead you inside, only a… you guessed it….a red door! (Here’s a hint: you’ll find it in an alley next to a pizzeria!) This lounge plays Latin-themed music and offers a variety of mixed drinks and a full menu for you to enjoy. If you feel like dancing the night away, this speakeasy is for you!
3. Lock and Key
If you’re into puzzles, then this is the place for you! To get into this bar, you’ll be met by a wall filled with knobs and locks and it’s up to you to figure out which one will open the door to this speakeasy. Once you’re inside, you’ll be able to enjoy some sweet concoctions as you sway to some classic R&B and hip-hop joints! Head over to Koreatown to check it out!
4. Good Times at Davey Wayne’s
For a good time call Davey Wayne! This groovy lounge is located in Hollywood. To get in, you’ll have to make your way past a garage sell and open the refrigerator door. Yes, you read that right. A refrigerator door will lead you straight into the 70’s as you dance to disco music and watch people roller skate. And who could say no to a spiked snow cone?
5. Rhythm Room
Take it back to the ‘20’s with this stylish lounge. Walk down a staircase in downtown and follow those jazzy sounds into the Rhythm Room. This spot features a live jazz band and some great cocktails that won’t break the bank. However, be weary of crowds on weekends as this is the hip to the jive in town!
6. The Edison
Talk about going with a theme! The Edison is located inside of Los Angeles first power plant. Get it? Edison and electricity. Anyway, besides the drinks, the host is dressed as a flapper you leads you through the power plant. The details are really what make this such a hip spot. You’ll feel like you’re in a steampunk novel thanks to the industrial detailing contrasting with the glam decor. This is bound to be a fun night! Be sure to make reservations first!
7. R Bar
Located in Koreatown, this is a password only speakeasy. Most of the time you can find the password through social media so it’s not too hard to locate. Once inside, you can enjoy cocktails, friends, and drunk karaoke. Can you think of a better night?
8. Der Wolfskopf
Let’s take a trip to Pasadena for a little meta moment! The Der Wolfskopf is a bar within a bar and the only way to get in is to know the owner personally. Once you get in, you’ll be able to enjoy beers and some great cuisine. Trust us, it is worth the trip!
9. The Del Monte
If you want to visit an actual formerly functioning speakeasy, then look no further than Venice Beach. To gain access you have to travel through a grocery store then down a staircase, but once you get inside get ready to party! With live music and even comedy acts, you will be reveling in this speakeasies drinks and atmosphere.
10. The Varnish
Located inside a restaurant known as Cole’s, this Los Angeles speakeasy serves 1920’s vibes dirty-style. With vintage decor and jazz age tunes playing, you’ll feel your inner flapper or gangster surfacing to have a grand ‘ole time!
