Speakeasy at these 5 Retro Bars Where a Good Time is Guaranteed

A speakeasy – also called a blind pig or blind tiger – was an illicit establishment that sold alcoholic beverages during prohibition when drinks were consumed in secret.

Although alcohol is not illegal, the culture and aesthetics of speakeasies continues – the idea behind the name speakeasy was used to give entry into top-secret bars and clubs. Today, this idea of hidden, dimly lit and unidentifiable bars is our take on the modern-day speakeasy.

Here are five bars where the vibe is retro and the drinks keep flowing:

In the heart of Fortitude Valley behind the green door discover bespoke cocktails and tapas at Nok Nok BNE on Brunswick Street. Those looking for a night out or planning a romantic rendezvous head to this elegant oasis-themed bar, tucked away behind an arched door with a brass knocker, featuring décor inspired by a classic speakeasy with a nod to modernity – think gold lamplit tables, hanging ferns, a curved gold and marble bar and Australian native wallpaper. 

Along with creative cocktails, there is an extensive spirit offering, boutique wine collection and an eclectic range of beer; order the Grape Escape, with red grape-infused gin, Autumn Amber liqueur, lime, mint, bitters and apple pie soda, or Smoke & Velvet with a whisky blend, salted violette, cane syrup, lemon, bitters and whites.

Head to Olivette on Fitzmaurice Street in Wagga Wagga to discover an intimate, underground whisky cocktail bar that whisks you away to a sophisticated era of refined revelry. Inspired by the mystique of a speakeasy, Olivette has crafted an exclusive experience where guests can indulge in a carefully curated selection of rare and expertly crafted cocktails, fine whisky and tapas-style bites, all wrapped in a sense of secrecy and exclusivity.

 

Pair a signature Mary Jane cocktail – Aperol, Vodka, marmalade, egg white, orange and lime – with kingfish ceviche to start; perhaps share pork shoulder tacos with arbol chilli and housemade pineapple salsa, or slow-cooked beef short rib with punchy chimichurri, smashed potatoes and grilled zucchini.

Entwining the romance of a Parisian soirée with the extravagant drama of a New York speakeasy, head to Le Bar Supper Club on North Concourse in Beaumaris for an experience beyond expectation. With an expansive gold-speckled granite bar, high-top tables and intimate booths, a night at this dining destination is truly one to remember; settle in under burnished gold glass chandeliers on plush jet-black velvet furniture to be transported back to an era of luxury, seductive live jazz, martinis and excessive glamour.

 

Begin with Shark Bay scallops, squid ink risotto and crustacean bisque, or share duck and fig terrine, caramelised figs, cornichons and toasted baguette; then delve into twice-baked duck leg l’orange, Port reduction, liquor-infused cherries and roasted chats, or eye fillet, café de Paris butter and pommes frites.

The Bootlegger Bar on Bathurst Road in Katoomba is a local family-friendly speakeasy that has earned a reputation as a haven for lovers of smoked culinary delights and innovative libations. Taking pride in crafting exquisite smoked meats, each bite bursting with rich, smoky flavours that leave guests craving more, Bootlegger doesn't stop at just food - its smoked drinks are a true testament to a dedication to the art of smoking.

Pair a Liquid Smoke cocktail with starters of smoked chicken wings, before low and slow choices such as a rack of pork ribs, slaw, pickles corn and sides of mac and cheese, shoestring fries, paprika salt and aioli; perhaps chow down on a brisket burger, mustard sauce, onion and mayo, or the Bootlegger bacon and cheeseburger with pickles and BBQ sauce.

Those seeking a hip and trendy bar to hang out with friends head down High Street in Northcote to find Francesca’s Bar. Exposed brick walls, vintage furniture and neon signage create a unique and stylish vibe, while the ping pong table attracts plenty of attention and competition.

With a reputation for top-shelf cocktails and drinks, settle in for a memorable session with a Pornstar Martini with vanilla vodka, passionfruit liqueur, pineapple and lime and graze on plates like grilled calamari with olive oil, garlic, chilli and lemon; followed by pizza slices such as L’Atomica – tomato, hot salami, roasted capsicum, olives, red onion, spring onion and goats’ cheese.