There’s a special thrill that comes with finding something hidden. It’s the feeling of being in on a secret, of discovering a place that not everyone knows about. Speakeasies capture that feeling perfectly. These bars are tucked away behind unassuming doors, in basements, or through secret passages, offering a unique experience you just can't get anywhere else.

Finding them is part of the adventure. You might need a password, have to solve a riddle, or simply know which unmarked door to push. Once inside, you’re rewarded with incredible cocktails, a cool atmosphere, and a story to tell. We've put together a list of some of the most elusive and exciting speakeasies around the globe. Get ready to start exploring.

The Bank Bar & Lounge – Manila, Philippines

Imagine walking through a bustling 7-Eleven, grabbing a drink, and then stepping through a storage room door into an entirely different world. That’s the entrance to The Bank Bar & Lounge. This spot takes the hidden bar concept to a new level by using a convenience store as its front.

  • How to Find It: Head to the 7-Eleven inside the RCBC Savings Bank Corporate Center in Bonifacio Global City. Go to the back and look for an unmarked, heavy gray door in the storage area. Push it open to reveal the entrance.
  • What Makes It Special: The contrast is everything. You leave the bright, everyday world of a convenience store and enter a dark, sophisticated space with high ceilings, plush seating, and an impressive wall of spirits. The cocktail menu is creative, offering both classic drinks and unique Filipino-inspired creations. It’s the perfect place to feel like a VIP who knows something others don't.

Please Don’t Tell (PDT) – New York City, USA

A New York City classic, Please Don’t Tell, or PDT, is the speakeasy that many others are modeled after. Tucked away inside a hot dog joint, it’s a legendary spot that still feels exclusive every time you visit. Getting in is part of the fun and requires a bit of old-school cool.

  • How to Find It: Walk into Crif Dogs, an East Village staple known for its deep-fried hot dogs. To your left, you’ll see a vintage phone booth. Step inside, pick up the phone, and press the buzzer once. A host will answer, and if there’s space, the back wall of the phone booth will open, granting you entry.
  • What Makes It Special: The atmosphere is dark, intimate, and feels like a genuine secret hideout. The taxidermy on the walls adds to the quirky, mysterious vibe. PDT is famous for its expertly crafted cocktails, many of which are created by world-renowned mixologists. Ordering a fancy drink while knowing you just walked past people eating hot dogs is a truly unique NYC experience. Reservations are highly recommended and can be tough to get.

The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town – London, England

London has no shortage of cool bars, but The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town adds a layer of playful secrecy. Located in the trendy Shoreditch neighborhood, this bar requires you to talk to the right person and know the secret password to gain entry.

  • How to Find It: Go to The Breakfast Club on Artillery Lane. Once inside, find a staff member and confidently tell them you're "here to see the Mayor." If they don't look at you like you're crazy, they'll lead you to what looks like a Smeg refrigerator. This fridge is actually the door to the dimly lit basement bar.
  • What Makes It Special: The entrance is quirky and memorable. The bar itself is a cozy, underground den filled with unusual furniture and vintage decor. It’s the kind of place you could easily spend a few hours in, trying out their fun and inventive cocktails. The rules on their menu add to the vibe, with one stating, "If you are lucky enough to get a table, you must leave through a different door."

Florería Atlántico – Buenos Aires, Argentina

This isn't your average flower shop. By day, it’s a beautiful boutique filled with fresh flowers and a selection of fine wines. But by night, it hides one of the world's best bars in its basement. Florería Atlántico is a tribute to Argentina's immigrant history, with a cocktail menu inspired by the nations that shaped the country.

  • How to Find It: Located in the Retiro neighborhood of Buenos Aires, the entrance is a large, unassuming metal refrigerator door inside the flower shop. Pull it open and you'll find a staircase leading down into the subterranean bar.
  • What Makes It Special: The bar’s theme is meticulously executed. The long, narrow space feels like the hull of an early 20th-century ship, complete with nautical details and illustrations of sea monsters on the walls. The cocktails are inspired by the immigrant heritage of Argentina, with sections dedicated to Italy, Spain, France, and Poland. It’s an immersive experience that combines history, art, and amazing drinks.

The Baxter Inn – Sydney, Australia

Hidden down an unmarked alley in Sydney's central business district, The Baxter Inn is a whiskey lover's dream. This basement bar has a staggering collection of whiskeys from all over the world, stacked on rolling library ladders that stretch to the ceiling. It’s a place that takes its drinks seriously but maintains a fun, unpretentious atmosphere.

  • How to Find It: This one is a real challenge. You need to find a nondescript alley off Clarence Street. Walk down the lane, look for a loading dock, and go down the stairs at the end. There’s no sign, so you have to trust you’re in the right place.
  • What Makes It Special: The sheer scale of the whiskey collection is breathtaking. Even if you're not a whiskey expert, the bartenders are incredibly knowledgeable and can help you find something you'll love. The vibe is lively and welcoming, with jazz and blues playing in the background. They also serve free pretzels, which is always a plus. It feels like a genuine discovery every time you find your way down that alley.

Tips for Your Speakeasy Adventure

  • Do Your Research: Some speakeasies require reservations, while others are strictly walk-in. Check their website or social media for rules and opening times.
  • Be Patient: Popular spots can have a wait. It's all part of the experience.
  • Go with a Small Group: Most speakeasies are small and intimate, making them better suited for pairs or small groups rather than large crowds.
  • Play Along: If there's a theme or a secret password, embrace it! It makes the experience more fun for everyone.

These hidden gems offer more than just a drink; they provide an adventure. The search, the secret entrance, and the exclusive atmosphere make for an unforgettable night out. So next time you're looking for something different, skip the obvious choice and go on the hunt for a secret you'll want to keep.