Although Prohibition is long gone, the popularity of vintage-themed bars is at an all-time high. In Charlotte, speakeasies are no longer just a thing of the past – they’re an exciting way to spend a night out. Not just a cocktail bar, although certainly cocktails are served. The speakeasy is a limited access / often members only / “hidden” entrance” / sometimes secret location bar. Getting in is half the fun.
Supperland Speakeasy
Located in the basement of the Bar at Supperland, in the smaller of their two buildings on the property at 1212 The Plaza. For this speakeasy, you reserve your seats for their very small cocktails lounge in advance. More like tickets, HERE. By reservation only, with only ten seats and limited days and hours of operation. How to get in? Reserve, then let them know at the Supperland bar that you’re there for the Speakeasy.
The Supperland Speakeasy current themed “Classy Classics” Cocktail Experience is “an exploration of lesser known classic cocktails, a spirit experience of coursed cocktails and small bite pairings.”
Reservations are required and are only accepted online. Your total ticket purchase ($169 pp) includes cocktails and small bite pairings, tax and tip. You pay in advance, just like buying a ticket and sales are FINAL with no cancellation clause.
Right now it is mostly sold out on weekends, but runs Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday with two seatings, at 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM, through April 2nd. Each Ticket is valid for a two hour cocktail experience. Just keep changing your date on the calendar until you find space available.
Dot Dot Dot
Location: 4237 Park Road B, Charlotte, NC
Dot Dot Dot is an upscale cocktail lounge hidden away that’s easy to find … the second time! Hunt for their logo on the Backlot of Park Road Shopping Center. Members enjoy conversations over cocktails and a menu meant to be shared. They’re an inclusive gathering, who know a thing or two about the art of cocktails. Must be a member to enter.
Backstage Lounge
Location: 2443 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC
BackStage Lounge is a modern take on the traditional concept with an intimate, romantically elevated vibe. The entrance is around the backside of the restaurant, SouthBound, and down the hall of Modern Classics Grooming Lounge. Once inside, there is a mural-lined hallway leading to an enclosed phone booth. Pick up the phone and provide the secret entry word of the week posted on social media. No membership is required. Live DJ’s every Friday and Saturday night!
The Jailhouse
Location: 23B S Main Street, Belmont, NC
This cigar and cocktail lounge is located inside the cells of Downtown Belmont, NC’s former jail. The Jailhouse is a private club so you’ll need to join upon entry. A day membership costs $2 and an annual membership costs $12. If you’re a fan of whisky and cigars then you’ll probably find the membership fee well worth it. They also have a full menu available at their sister concept next door called Old Stone Steakhouse.
The Cellar at Duckworth’s
Location: 330 North Tryon St, Charlotte, NC
The Cellar at Duckworth’s is inspired by an era of time that’s long past. The underground space built originally in 1912, naturally has a speakeasy, prohibition-era feel with its original brick walls and exposed ceiling joists. In addition to their chef-driven menu, give 3 adjectives and their bartenders will whip something up for you. No password or membership needed to enter but you might want to make a reservation.
The Cotton Room
Location: 144 Brevard Court, Charlotte, NC
The Cotton Room is a Southern-inspired speakeasy with cocktails that incorporate local flavors with a comfortable environment. Named in honor of the open-air cotton marketplace that once existed in its home of Brevard Court, this cocktail lounge combines a modern cocktail menu with the vibe of a bygone era. No membership or password required to enter.
Lauren Kelly
A restaurant blogger giving honest reviews of Charlotte’s best restaurants. Follow her on Instagram at @restaurant_aholic.
