5 Incredible Speakeasies in Charlotte, NC
Charlotte has a burgeoning nightlife scene, and one of the best ways to experience it is by visiting a speakeasy. These hidden bars, often located in the back of restaurants or disguised as other businesses, are a nod to the prohibition era of the 1920s. Here are the best speakeasies in Charlotte, each with its own unique vibe that makes it more than just another place to grab a drink.
Dot Dot Dot
4237 Park Road, Unit B, Charlotte, NC 28209
(704) 817-3710
Located in the back of Park Road Shopping Center, Dot Dot Dot offers a sophisticated atmosphere and an extensive cocktail menu. The bar features an elegant art deco-inspired interior, complete with plush seating and dim lighting. Like a few other spots on this list, you have to be a member to enter. It’s well worth the fee, though. The elegant cocktails on offer are both original and delicious. There are so many to choose from, but the Thai Pepper Paloma is a spicy twist for those tequila lovers out there.
The Cotton Room at Belfast Mill
144 Brevard Court, Suite B, Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 333-7160
This southern-styled speakeasy is hidden behind a bookshelf in the Belfast Mill Irish Pub. The intimate space features the original exposed brick walls, rafters, floors, and a cozy fireplace. Named after the open-air cotton marketplace that once called Brevard Court home, you’ll be sipping on a fantastic blend of timeless classics and modern concoctions. Entering is easy, The Cotton Room doesn’t have a membership or password.
The Cellar at Duckworth’s
330 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 29202
(980) 349-4078
This hidden bar is located in the basement of Duckworth’s Grill & Taphouse in Uptown Charlotte. The cozy interior is dimly lit, giving it a secretive vibe. The space was originally built in 1912 and has the true feel of a proper speakeasy. The chef-driven menu features some of the best bites around. The Cellar also has some incredibly talented bartenders. Give them three adjectives, and they will craft you your own personal cocktail. If you want something off the drink menu, the New York Gin Sour is phenomenal.
Backstage Lounge
2433 South Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28203
(704) 705-8447
A modern take on the speakeasy, Backstage Lounge still provides a vintage feel. The interior is filled with plush, red leather chairs and a solid wooden bar. What makes this place fun is that it does take a bit of looking to find it. You’ll need to go behind Southend and then down the hall of Modern Classics Grooming Lounge. There you’ll find a hallway lined with murals that leads to an enclosed phone booth. Use the secret password (it’s posted on social media each week) and you’ll be let inside this wonderful place. The craft cocktails are delightful and use high-quality ingredients that truly make a difference. They only have a small selection of small plates for food, so you’ll want to make sure to eat before you head over.
The Jailhouse
23B South Main Street, Belmont, NC 28120
(704) 829-3299
The Jailhouse isn’t lying about what it is. Located inside the cells of downtown Belmont’s former jail, if you’re a lover of whisky and cigars, then this is a spot you’ll want to check out. The house special is The Jailhouse Hattan made with Basil Hayden’s bourbon, sweet vermouth, Amarena cherries, and Angostura aromatic bitters. While there isn’t much by way of food, you can start your night (or day) at their sister restaurant Old Stone Steakhouse next door.
For more recommendations on where to eat and drink in the city, check out our Charlotte page, here!
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