What exactly is a speakeasy?

What exactly is a speakeasy?

: a place where alcoholic beverages are illegally sold specifically : such a place during the period of prohibition in the U.S.

Why was it called a speakeasy?

Speakeasies received their name as patrons were often told to “speak easy” about these secret bars in public. Speakeasies received their name from police officers who had trouble locating the bars due to the fact that people tended to speak quietly while inside the bars.

What is a speakeasy today?

While many bars and taverns closed down, illegal drinking establishments known as “speakeasies” cropped up all across the country. ... Modern-day speakeasies are legal establishments where guests can have the experience of living during the Prohibition era.

What is a speakeasy in a house?

A speakeasy, also called a blind pig or blind tiger, is an illicit establishment that sells alcoholic beverages, or a retro style bar that replicates aspects of historical speakeasies. Speakeasy bars came into prominence in the United States during the Prohibition era (1920–1933, longer in some states).

How should you dress for a speakeasy?

Dress to impress. Leave the jeans and hoodie at home, as cocktail attire is required—and period attire encouraged—at The Speakeasy. Wear your finest vintage, break out the sparkly jewelry, and put on some dancing shoes, because it's the Jazz Age!

How did a speakeasy work?

In order to gain entrance to a speakeasy, patrons were stopped at the door and had to produce a secret password, a special card, a secret handshake, or a special code. Once the password was verified, patrons were led inside to the speakeasy location, which was often hidden in a basement or behind a false door.

What is the difference between a bar and a speakeasy?

Although the terms are increasingly used to refer to the same thing, there is a difference between pubs, bars, inns, taverns and lounges where alcohol is served commercially. ... A speakeasy is an establishment that illegally sells alcoholic beverages.

What's the difference between a speakeasy and a bar?

Although the terms are increasingly used to refer to the same thing, there is a difference between pubs, bars, inns, taverns and lounges where alcohol is served commercially. ... A speakeasy is an establishment that illegally sells alcoholic beverages.

Are speakeasies still a thing?

Thanks to the repeal of the Eighteenth Amendment in 1933, modern-day speakeasies don't have to evade arrest and prosecution. Still, the allure of private drinking lounges, often hidden in back alleys or behind fake doors in nondescript storefronts or restaurants, remain strong even now.

What were speakeasies disguised as?

Gone were the boardwalks, swinging doors, spittoons, and mustache towels of the saloon era, as speakeasies disguised themselves in numerous creative ways. Generally, before a thirsty patron could cross the illegal threshold, a password, specific handshake or secret knock was required.

How did speakeasy stay hidden?

In order to gain entrance to a speakeasy, patrons were stopped at the door and had to produce a secret password, a special card, a secret handshake, or a special code. Once the password was verified, patrons were led inside to the speakeasy location, which was often hidden in a basement or behind a false door.

What was the most famous speakeasy?

Two of the Big Apple's most popular speakeasies were The Cotton Club in Harlem and the Stork Club, which was originally on 58th Street in Manhattan then moved to 53rd Street. After prohibition ended in 1933, the bars became magnets for movie stars, celebrities, wealthy New Yorkers and showgirls.

What makes a speakeasy a speakeasy?

To cater to the very large population of people who still wished to drink, hidden bars and nightclubs were established in cities across the country. The term speakeasy is thought to have come from the patrons having to whisper (or, speak “easy”) when attempting to enter the hidden bar.