Inspired by the glamor, secrecy, and rebellion of the Prohibition era, speakeasies are having a moment in Greater Fort Lauderdale. Some offer sexy burlesque shows, while others promise live jazz in dimly lit rooms. But what they all have in common is flowing cocktails, vibrant atmospheres, and an air of mystery you’ll want to experience again and again. The following hidden gems in Greater Fort Lauderdale are the perfect escape for everyone under the sun (if they’re 21 and over, of course).
Apt 9F
Modeled after their apartment in New York City, married couple Carol Moran and Nancy Goldwin want Apt 9F to feel like the house party you stop by before (or after) a big night out. This drinking den and social eatery in Wilton Manors is wholly unpretentious, where you can enjoy an inventive cocktail, a delicious nibble, and all the love and laughter your heart desires.
Bodega Taqueria y Tequila
In downtown Fort Lauderdale, a seemingly ordinary Mexican street food restaurant, Bodega Taqueria y Tequila, conceals a unique feature. Behind a door designed to look like a meat locker, the restaurant opens up to a 1,600-square-foot lounge. This area is furnished with velvet couches, exposed ductwork, birdcage chandeliers, and a full bar, offering a distinct contrast to the casual dining space at the front. The establishment pairs its menu of tacos with a variety of tequila selections, creating a popular combination for patrons.
Hidden Speakeasy
Inside Eatapas restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, a door labeled "pantry" leads to Hidden Speakeasy, a bar inspired by the Prohibition era but with a contemporary touch. The speakeasy offers a range of cocktails, from classics such as old fashioned and negronis to original mixes like the Chocolate Charlie, which combines coffee-infused rum, hazelnut liqueur, and chocolate mole bitters, garnished with a dark chocolate-covered orange and a maraschino cherry.
Mama Hanks Speakeasy + Kitchen
Mama Hanks Speakeasy + Kitchen, concealed behind a vault door inside Fort Liquordale, a liquor store in Flagler Village, offers a unique experience for its patrons. This award-winning establishment, distinguished by its extensive whiskey and tequila collection, requires reservations for entry. It combines the ambiance of a cocktail bar with the functionality of a kitchen, creating a refined atmosphere. Entry is granted through a secret code, followed by locating a door marked by a brass hand, a feature that signifies entrance into a setting celebrating American culture.
No Man’s Land
When you want a refuge from the ordinary, No Man’s Land is where you want to go. This self-described “vibey cocktail parlor and eatery” offers great service, craft cocktails and a small menu of shareable plates. Elevated, but never pretentious, No Man’s Land is a great place to catch a vibe in Victoria Park.
Rm. 901
For a swanky experience that’ll transport you to the Roaring Twenties, knock on room 901 at the Hyatt Centric Las Olas, Fort Lauderdale. Step into a bygone era where sultry lighting, craft cocktails and gourmet bites await. While you don’t need to stay at the hotel to sip and savor, reservations at Rm. 901 are required.
Roxanne’s Liquor Bar & Kitchen
For late night fun, pop over to this rollicking speakeasy-style bar and kitchen in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. Indulge in their ever-popular Pair-O-Dice Happy Hour, where a roll of the dice determines your discount amount. Sip on unique cocktails, like their Sunny D vodka seltzers. Or give it your best shot with a game of pool. No matter what, good times are guaranteed at Roxanne’s Liquor Bar & Kitchen.
Sidecar Speakeasy
Tucked behind Vinos on Las Olas, Sidecar Speakeasy is an intimate 1920s Prohibition-style bar known for their crafty cocktails, vintage ambiance and period music. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail or a unique concoction, Sidecar’s expert mixologists are ready to deliver. A strict dress code is enforced. For the door code call 855-BRAMBLE or check their Instagram page.
Stache Drinking Den
Voted one of the coolest speakeasies in America, this premier cocktail lounge, nightclub and concert hall excites all the senses with beautifully-crafted cocktails and live entertainment, like burlesque/cabaret shows, bands and DJs. The scene at Fort Lauderdale’s Stache Drinking Den is always an incredible blend of relaxed and upbeat. We’ll cheers to that!
The Apothecary 330
Within the walls of downtown Fort Lauderdale’s Pizza Craft Italian Kitchen awaits an intimate cocktail club promising healing tonics, fine spirits and high-quality elixirs. Alongside curated cocktails, The Apothecary 330 offers light bites and a weekend brunch you won’t wanna miss.
The Green Hat
Named the Best Bar in Broward in 2023 by the Miami New Times, The Green Hat can only be entered through a door in the Evolution Escape Rooms inside Xtreme Action Park. Requiring a code to get in (which changes weekly on their website), this eclectic green-hued bar offers plenty of quirky libations that tie back to the bar’s unique story of notorious bootlegger James Cassidy and his green fedora.
Unit B
From date night to girls’ night, Unit B is the perfect hideaway from the hustle and bustle of downtown Fort Lauderdale. This super sexy spot embodies a throwback feel with live jazz music and burlesque shows. Add inventive cocktails and immaculate vibes, and we guarantee you’ll be coming back for more.