Speakeasies in Charlotte
Secret passwords and discreet knocks unlock a new kind of intimacy for your night out.
by Katelyn Rutt
Concealed behind hidden hallways and nondescript doors, you’ll find some of the Queen City’s best kept-secrets: speakeasies and hidden bars. These moody hideaways rewrite the rules of nightlife with historic roots, story-driven cocktail menus and captivating energy, inviting you to linger over every sip.
BackStage Lounge
Neighborhood: South End
This neighborhood staple, tucked behind SouthBound, is the perfect speakeasy starting point. Provide the entry phrase of the week and step into the music-inspired atmosphere. Rotating cocktails perfectly complement themed decor and, during the holidays, the interior transforms into one of the city’s most festive bars.
Bruno at Seoul Food Meat Co.
Neighborhood: Optimist Park
Hidden behind an unassuming freezer door, this hotspot offers a kid-friendly space where parents can enjoy a well-deserved “escape.” With playgrounds, a gaming area, and karaoke rooms, the atmosphere may feel playful, but don’t be fooled: the bourbon-focused speakeasy, featuring Japanese and Tennessee whiskies, takes its craft seriously.
The Cellar at Duckworth’s
Neighborhood: Uptown
The underground level of this popular American gastropub, built in 1912, is steeped in history and staffed by bartenders who dress the part. This gem naturally exudes an authentic speakeasy atmosphere, complete with original brick walls and exposed ceiling joists. Step back in time while sipping an Old Fashioned or the herbal-citrusy Corpse Reviver, crafted with Sipsmith Gin.
Dot Dot Dot
Neighborhood: SouthPark
Nestled beside a hardware store, Charlotte’s premier craft cocktail lounge offers the ultimate nightcap selection with 700 available spirits. Can’t get enough? A $10 Dot Dot Dot membership, an annual subscription for you and up to three guests, grants access anytime you’re craving a classic speakeasy evening.
The Green Room
Neighborhood: South End
While it may be considered an intimate pocket bar, this speakeasy packs a punch. The thoughtful cocktail menu has something for every taste, featuring house-made infusions, shrubs and natural sodas to elevate any beverage. Feeling adventurous? Try a Bartender’s Choice and leave your fate in the hands of your skilled bartender.
Hermanita
Neighborhood: Plaza Midwood
Hidden behind a striped door, this speakeasy offers every type of beverage, from classic Mexican Coke to sangria, local IPAs and more. Pair a drink with a delicious al pastor taco on an heirloom corn tortilla or a homemade tres leches sponge cake topped with torched meringue.
The Pharmacy
Area: Belmont
Experience Prohibition-era allure with contemporary sophistication at this speakeasy, housed in a former pharmacy. The unique beverage program draws on its medicinal history, honoring cocktail heritage while exploring bold new flavors. Become a Pharmacy Member for $300 individually, or $400 per couple, to unlock special access days, events and more.
Sneak
Neighborhood: Elizabeth
Buzzing with energy and cocktails that taste as delicious as they look, this “sneakeasy” is a must-visit. Settle into the moody environment, punctuated by great beats and a shadowy bar. Sweet-toothed visitors will adore The Prowler, a sour sip topped with Cherry Coke foam, while herbal lovers will meet their match in Sabbatical Secrets, available only on weekends.
Supperland Speakeasy
Neighborhood: Plaza Midwood
Available by reservation only, this speakeasy offers rotating Spirit Experiences featuring four courses of themed cocktails and creative dish pairings. Supperland’s kitchen team, along with award-winning beverage director Colleen Hughes — who brings beauty, mastery and theater to every offering — ensure that no two Speakeasy Experiences are ever the same.
Syn
Neighborhood: South End
You’ll need a reservation and a keen eye to get into this speakeasy, just steps away from Canopy Cocktails & Garden. Syn is a true speakeasy — hidden and password protected — but once you find it, you’ll enter a soft-lit hideaway serving cocktails named after famous artists and inspired by their home country.
