There’s something undeniably mysterious and intriguing about a secret bar. Just mention the word "speakeasy," and suddenly, the whole city is eager to uncover the hidden experience. Dallas is home to a growing scene of dimly lit lounges, lush interiors, and expertly curated libations, creating an atmosphere that’s not just worth a visit—but one that will have you coming back for more!
Updated February 2025
AKAI
Hidden behind the discreet kitchen of Musume, a sushi spot across from the Dallas Symphony, lies Akai; a Japanese-inspired speakeasy. While walk-ins are welcome, it's highly recommended to make a reservation to experience the sultry, red-lit lounge. However, it's been known that anyone can find their way in by locating the side door on Crockett Ave—look for the Japanese symbol and the bouncer, and you're in!
Arts District | Directions
Alcatraz
Known as one of the most exclusive Latin lounges in Dallas, this vibrant hidden speakeasy inside Bocado promises to take your weekend plans to the next level with expertly crafted exotic cocktails. For those seeking a more elevated experience, reserve a VIP table or indulge in personalized bottle service for you and your friends, ensuring a night of electrifying memories on the dance floor!
East Dallas | Directions
ATLAS
Atlas is your neighborhood bar with a global twist on food and drinks. For that speakeasy vibe, find the hidden door behind a bookcase (though it’s fully open on busy nights) and dive into drinks from their Well Traveled or Local Stops menus. Better yet, indulge in bratwurst or beef pho from their global bites. With doors open until 2am every day of the week, this spot is a must-add to your weekend itinerary.
Bishop Arts | Directions
Ayahuasca Cantina
If you’re looking for an experience that feels worlds away from Dallas, look no further. Behind Xaman Cafe, you’ll find a dark, vibrant space offering an exceptional Mexican culinary experience. From the carefully curated ingredients in their dishes to the craft cocktails, every detail is designed to transport you to the heart of Mexico. The focus here is on mezcal, sotol, and tequila-forward drinks and flights, making it a must-try for spirit enthusiasts.
Oak Cliff | Directions
Babou's
The stunning aesthetics of this cocktail lounge inside Hôtel Swexan will leave you speechless, with an atmosphere filled with energy, curiosity, and lush luxury. Inspired by Salvador Dalí’s beloved ocelot, Babou’s offers a memorable experience - whether you’re here for jazz night, artist happy hour or a private soirée of your own. Sip on a handcrafted cocktail in style, but be sure to dress the part—their dress code is kindly enforced.
Harwood District | Directions
Bacari Tabu
Bacari Tabu brings back the spirit of a classic Dallas staple, Strictly Tabu, which was one of the oldest jazz clubs in town from the mid-50s to the late 90s. Find it behind an unmarked door next to Nonna, with a vibrant interior featuring velour-printed seats, bold patterns, and a luxurious granite-top bar. Be sure to book a table to enjoy their Venetian-style tapas, pizza, or pasta, but if you end up at the bar, don’t worry—there’s no bad view of the stage from anywhere you sit. This may be just the place you come for the cocktails, but stay for the jazz.
Oak Lawn | Directions
BOURBON & BANTER
Head downtown to the iconic Statler Hotel to discover a classic underground lounge that was once a barber shop. The bourbon selection here is endless, and the innovative cocktails make this speakeasy an absolute must-visit. Now, if you’re looking for authenticity, this spot delivers. You can’t just walk in—you’ll need to find the phone booth and type in the password. If it’s correct, the door will open for you!
Downtown Dallas | Directions
La Mina
Immerse yourself in the subterranean oasis of Latin American art, culture, and exotic flavor at La Mina’s hidden speakeasy. With only a neon sign guiding you through a back freezer entrance and a secret code to unlock the way, this intimate spot is perfect to awaken your cocktail senses, enjoy a date night, or celebrate a special occasion after dancing the night away!
The Village | Directions
La Vuida Negra
Who knew a disguised bridal shop could actually hide one of the most colorful and intimate Latin speakeasies on the inside? The brothers behind El Come Taco (one of our favorite taco spots) have created their second gem right next door. The cocktail menu showcases selective small-batch mezcals, with a rotating selection of infused tequilas and other spirits featuring kiwi, passionfruit, coconut, and more!
Uptown | Directions
Limin' Lounge
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again—this speakeasy tiki wonderland is worth the trip to Truck Yard at The Colony for a taste of Hawaiian paradise! With private poker rooms and themed karaoke, it’s the perfect spot to gather with girlfriends, guy friends, or even co-workers for your next night out while sipping on a highly Instagrammable frozen cocktail.
The Colony | Directions
Magnum Speakeasy
Little did you know, Grapevine is home to one of the most eclectic and moody speakeasies in town, featuring seasonally rotating Prohibition-style libations, Texas-inspired decor, and a candlelit ambiance perfect for your reserved date night Thursday through Saturday. Located inside Hotel Vin, this hidden gem invites you to dress with class and make a call from the retro telephone booth to gain entry and be transported into an atmosphere you won’t forget.
Grapevine | Directions
MIDNIGHT RAMBLER
Midnight Rambler is undoubtedly one of our favorite lounges in Dallas, and it’s hard to believe it’s already a decade old—still looking as young as ever! Nestled in the basement of The Joule, it offers an undeniably electric, chic, and effortlessly cool vibe. Their menu and creative cocktails will have you talking for days. On most weekends, enjoy jazz, funk, or even rock, with innovative sounds spinning all night long. Rumor has it, even Leon Bridges himself has made an appearance here - staying up until midnight never sounded better!
Downtown | Directions
RARE BOOKS BAR
Just behind the bookcase, a hideaway awaits, offering good reads and a cocktail list that will have your senses escaping beyond the pages. With live music during the week Wednesday - Saturday and a generously large food menu, you cannot go wrong here. Don’t even get us started on their bakery items either, you have to check it out for yourself!
Frisco | Directions
Red Phone Booth
They say a smoked Old Fashioned and cigars are a perfect pairing, and we couldn't agree more. With its vintage Prohibition charm, the Red Phone Booth tells a story through every detail, starting with the restored London antique phone booth. To gain access, you’ll need to secure an exclusive number from a member, concierge, or friend -- so plan ahead! Once inside, enjoy a signature Neapolitan pizza, relax in their sophisticated cigar lounge with over 100 labels to choose from, or sip on a carefully crafted cocktail—this vibe is sure to impress.
The Colony | Directions
The Branca Room
In Bishop Arts, behind the popular Argentinian spot Chimichurri, you'll discover a hidden Latin bistro speakeasy. This intimate space is accessed through a back alley—just follow the red light! Once inside, settle beneath the giant chandelier and enjoy cocktails that give main character energy. P.S. Both the amaro and vermouth are crafted in-house!
Bishop Arts | Directions
THE STACHE
Step into an intimate Roaring '20s scene with just 30 seats, available to the public on select nights by reservation in Preston Forest Village—now that’s an exclusive nightcap. Tucked inside Renny’s Restaurant, this speakeasy invites you to solve a clever riddle (involving a mustache, naturally) before discovering a world of crafted cocktails, small bites, and an alluring touch of mystery.
Preston Forest | Directions
YELLOW ROSA
In the heart of Deep Ellum, you'll find a Tulum-inspired Mexican cocktailería with a romantic, open-air enclosed patio. There’s no sign out front, so keep an eye out for the large metal door with a small window to peek inside. Whatever you do, don’t miss their weekend brunch on Saturdays and Sundays—and if you time it just right, you might find yourself swept away by the sounds of Mariachi Magnifico’s serenade.
Deep Ellum | Directions