Creating That Classic Speakeasy Feel for Your Customers

What seemed like a passing trend appears to be here to stay, the modern resurgence of the speakeasy. With their passwords, prohibition era décor, and the feeling of being transported to a more glamourous era shrouded in secrecy, it’s easy to see why people have fallen hard for a 1920s-inspired night on the town. If you’re thinking of getting in on the murky, secretive drink serving, here are some simple ways to give your bar a classic shot of nostalgia.

Sometimes, the Secrets Lie in the Details:

Details like stamped tin accents, leather bound bar stools and industrial miscellany can really cultivate the speakeasy theme with a few trips to the drug store. Look for items like old jars or laboratory equipment you can use as décor, old whiskey barrels, ladders or antique books. The key here is not perfection, but authenticity. You’ll want to make space feel lived in, quirky items and all.

Additionally, you may want to consider the small stuff when it comes to drinks. Some speakeasies serve simple drinks, or just specialize in whiskey, while others go all out with cocktails served during prohibition.

Keep it Simple with the Furniture and Decor:

Authentic speakeasies were primarily not these lavish spaces. In many cases, you were lucky if there was even a table. These days, bar owners are opting less for authenticity and more toward comfort and class, but keep in mind, less may be more. Look for dark leather benches, which can be complemented by rich jewel tones like burgundy and exposed wood.

At the bar, keep things minimal by looking for simple stools. Wood works great, but if you want guests to feel a bit cozier, stick with cushioned leather barstools guests can really sink into. Click here to find some commercial bar stools that fit the vibe just right.

Embrace the Imperfections:

A little exposed wood or brick walls, and an imperfect, industrial vibe can all add just the right addition of character to space. While you should obviously keep things clean and up to code, go a little rough around the edges.

Ditch the Sign:

The mark of a good speakeasy is knowing where you can find it. Because speakeasies were a prohibition-era staple, they had to essentially be hidden in plain sight. These days, bar patrons take great pleasure in visiting unmarked bars and delivering a password upon arrival. Here’s a look at some creative door ideas in case you’re looking for a whimsical way to stay “hidden.” While this may not be the best plan if you don’t have a marketing plan if you’ve got the social media muscle to flex, going secretive could be a fun way to build your brand.

If you’re worried about the password, keep things simple and post it to your website or Facebook page. Some bar owners have opted to use Twitter or are flexible with customers that don’t know the phrase for entry. It’s up to you.

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