13 Speakeasies in Boston to Visit

There's something so intimate and mysterious about sipping craft cocktails at a local speakeasy. Whether it’s the swanky atmosphere or the thrill of uncovering the door and knowing the password that appeals to you, Boston has plenty of hidden bars and restaurants for you to discover.

Hecate

Location: Public Alley 443, Boston

Dedicated to the Greek goddess of magic and witchcraft, Hecate’s spirit guides (commonly known as bartenders) craft libations that will transport you to a modern world of elixirs. Featuring a menu full of cocktails inspired by ancient mythology and bites made with locally sourced ingredients, this is a go-to destination for those seeking one of the most unique drinking experiences Boston has to offer. With only 24 seats, visitors should expect a wait to get in. But try to remember Hecate’s 7th Tenet: “Be patient, excellence takes time!” 

What to know: Vodka sodas can only be ordered from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Hecate opens at 5:00 pm.

The Blind Duck

Location: 40 Trinity Place, Boston

Perched above the streets of Boston in a high-rise hotel, the Blind Duck takes the concept of hidden bars to new heights (literally!). To get in, journey to the 17th floor of Raffles Boston, climb the spiral staircase, and look for the unassuming 'fire exit' door—behind it lies one of Boston's newest speakeasies. This sleek, 76-seat, two-story cocktail bar boasts stunning city views through its giant windows, making the trip well worth it. The drink menu is just as impressive as the scenery, with a seasonally changing selection that includes favorites like the "Jack, Kack, and Lack," a playful nod to the classic children's book Make Way for Ducklings, as well as mocktails. Enjoy their creative drinks alongside a rotating menu of small bites perfectly curated for the season.

What to know: Don’t worry if there is a waitlist. Head to one of the other amazing bars or restaurants at Raffles Boston while you wait! 

The Wig Shop

Location: 27 Temple Place, Boston

With its neon "wigs" sign and a display of mannequin heads in colorful wigs in its window, 27 Temple Place might look like an ordinary wig store at first glance. After all, the location was an actual wig shop for decades. But behind this deceiving façade is The Wig Shop, one of Boston's most chic speakeasies. The menu is ever-changing, but one thing remains constant—a generous dose of hair puns. Don't miss their iconic Lobster Pancakes or their Rise and Grind cocktail. And remember, don't forget toupée before you leave!

What to know: Reservations are available from 5:00 to 7:00 pm Tuesdays through Saturdays and all evening on Sundays and Mondays, but the bar is mainly first come, first served. 

Offsuit

Location: 5 Utica Street, Boston

No password. No dress code. No boring drinks. Now that’s a mantra we can get behind. Featuring a menu of hand-crafted cocktails like “Trick of the Light” (also known as Mountain Dew for grownups), “Hired Gun,” “Vibe Check,” and a very classy name for their espresso martinis, Offsuit is the perfect stop to mix up your traditional going-out experience. While they do welcome walk-ins, reservations are encouraged.

What to know: When you find the door, call, don’t knock. 

Loyall Counting Room

Location: 510 Atlantic Ave, Boston

Boston has always been a city of revolutionaries. So, what better way to experience a night out in Boston than with a "slightly rebellious cocktail experience!" Dedicated to the hideaways where revolutionaries made their course-altering plans, Loyall Counting Room transports guests to the past with pre-revolution era-themed cocktails and captivating storytelling. The menu offers drinks like The Liberty's Reserve: Smuggler's Elixir, The Gentlewoman's Rebellion: Resist The Patriarchy, and Incident On King Street: An Ode To The Sangaree that are perfect for those who want to rebel from their traditional night out experience. 

What to know: Loyall Counting Room only seats 25 and is by reservation only. Guests will receive a secret password to enter after reserving. 

Borrachito Taqueria & Spirits

Location: 70 Pier 4 Boulevard Suite 270, Boston

Slip through the freezer door just past the pickup window of this street-facing Mexico City-style taqueria, and you’ll find a hidden speakeasy serving up “liquid artistry." With a neon sign that boldly declares “Tequila today, worry mañana,” Borrachito Taqueria & Spirits promises an unforgettable night out in Boston’s Seaport. The menu features creative cocktails like the "John Wayne," "The Ahhhlington," and "The Coco Papi Getdown" (a must-try for coffee lovers) alongside an incredible selection of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and more. Truthfully, it’s hard to say what’s better—the drinks, the tacos, or the unbeatable vibes. 

Carrie Nation Cocktail Club

Location: 11 Beacon Street, Boston

Named after the infamous prohibitionist, Carrie Nation (Hatchet and all!), this speakeasy in the heart of Beacon Hill shows that the essence of the 20s is still alive and well in Boston. Slip through the red velvet curtain, found just beyond the main dining rooms, past the bar, and down a corridor, to discover Boston’s original speakeasy. Featuring an elegant, windowless lounge with plush leather seating, dark polished wood, billiards, and a full bar serving era-inspired concoctions, Carrie Nation Cocktail Club is the perfect location for your next date night!

What to know: Make sure to have a twenty spot, secret handshake, or password to enter.

A4cade

Location: 292 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge

What do you get when you pair a secret bar with the nostalgia of a 90s-themed arcade? A4cade, of course! Featuring a menu of hand-crafted cocktails like “Princess Peach's Downfall,” “Not Your Uncle’s Buck” and “Bear Necessities,” and games like pinball, Mario Kart, and Ms. Pacman, this speakeasy is the perfect stop for anyone who loves all things nerdy and nostalgic. Plus, you can even order food from the popular Roxy’s Grilled Cheese!

What to know: A4cade is accessible through the freezer door at Roxy’s Grilled Cheese.

The Gallery at Yvonne’s Restaurant & Supper Club

Location: 2 Winter Place, Boston

The Gallery at Yvonne’s is a pop culture lover’s dream. Concealed behind a secret bookshelf at the back of the restaurant’s Library Lounge, this seven-table speakeasy offers a truly intimate dining experience featuring playful pop cultural references, an award-winning menu, and an exclusive selection of wine and champagne. 

What to know: With only seven tables, reservations for The Gallery are only available by special request. 

Bar Pallino

Location: 278 Newbury Street, Boston

You’ve heard of wine cellars, but what about wine speakeasies? Tucked away in the basement of one of Boston’s most popular restaurants, Faccia a Faccia, Bar Pallino may be the most refined speakeasy on our list. Inspired by the new generation of Paris wine bars, it focuses on organic, natural, and biodynamic wines, with a menu featuring over 70 unique selections. In addition to its extensive wine list, you'll find artisanal amaros, vermouths, and mezcals from small-batch producers. The atmosphere feels like a well-kept European secret, offering a refined yet cozy space to enjoy favorites from Faccia a Faccia’s menu—like bright crudo, homemade pasta, and fresh gelato.

Next Door Speakeasy & Raw Bar

Location: 107 Porter Street, Boston

Next Door Speakeasy & Raw Bar has one of our favorite entrances on this list. Disguised as a locksmith shop sharing a building with Pazza on Porter, you'll enter the speakeasy through a completely hidden mechanized door on Pazza's patio. With a simple wave of a hand, the door automatically opens, allowing guests to head to the second door, where they'll give the password of the night. If the password is correct, you'll be guided to an upscale cocktail bar featuring light-up, smoking, and bubbling cocktails.

What to know: Reservations are required for entrance to the speakeasy.

Brick & Mortar

Location: 567 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge

Hidden upstairs, behind an unmarked door in Central Square, you’ll discover Brick & Mortar, a dimly lit speakeasy that makes every night feel like a party. With innovative cocktails like "unsafe at any speed”, “electric Kool-Aid acid test” and “old fashioned aura,” it’s no wonder why this hidden cocktail joint was named one of the best bars in America! Featuring industrial brick walls and timeless charm, Brick & Mortar promises a memorable night out.

What to know: Brick & Mortar has no sign. Look for the large door at 567 Massachusetts Ave.

Backbar

Location: 7 Sanborn Court, Boston

Wander to the alley between The Independent and Bronwyn in Union Square, and you’ll stumble upon Backbar, a nearly hidden cocktail bar where quaint and quirky vibes meet artfully crafted cocktails. The ever-changing menu now celebrates the world of insects, featuring creative concoctions like the “Firefly,” “Mexican Honey Wasp,” and “Snail,”  making it a must-visit for adventurous drinkers who appreciate a quirky twist on classic cocktails. If you’re looking for an even more exclusive experience, don’t miss the chance to book a spirit tasting in their Closet Bar.

What to know: Backbar does not accept reservations.