A speakeasy bar was originally a secret bar or nightclub that operated illegally during the Prohibition era in the United States (1920-1933).
Today, many speakeasy bars retain a sense of mystique. They offer you an exclusive experience. When you enter one, it feels like you’ve discovered something special.
So, what makes such bars unique? Secret entrances, cosy seating, low lighting, carefully crafted ambience and surprise cocktail creations.
If you’re a cocktail enthusiast or want to give a fresh twist to your evening fun with a date or friends, this blog is for you. It will introduce you to the speakeasy culture so that you have a memorable experience.

History of the Speakeasies
In the 1920s, the United States passed a law banning alcohol. Many people wanted to drink and looked for options.
Secret bars began popping up. Bartenders had to work with unpleasant, low-quality or homemade spirits.
Bartenders began experimenting with different flavours, mixers, and techniques to mask the harshness of these spirits. That led to inventive cocktails. Guests drank, danced, and enjoyed jazz music in these spots.
But why the name “speakeasy”? This term came up because people were told to whisper about these places to avoid attracting attention from the police. They became escapes from society’s strict rules.
The U.S. Prohibition era became an iconic period. Its depiction in movies, literature, and pop culture fascinated people outside the American borders.
Speakeasies were born out of necessity in the U.S. But their appeal spread worldwide.
In the early 2000s, people worldwide became interested in classic cocktails again. Speakeasies fit this trend perfectly, as they focus on high-quality drinks. Many tourist destinations, like Bali, had speakeasies. They enhanced the nightlife scene in Bali considerably.
As the global tourism industry spread, bartenders and entrepreneurs began sharing ideas. They brought the speakeasy concept to new countries.

What Is the Modern Speakeasy Experience?
Modern speakeasies blend vintage charm with contemporary style.
Exclusivity: The excitement of finding the hidden speakeasy adds to the uniqueness.
Ambience: When you enter a speakeasy, dim, warm lights greet you. The vibe is inviting. The seating is plush. The décor comprises art deco patterns, brass fixtures, and old-fashioned barware.
Some speakeasies offer live jazz or acoustic music. If you’re visiting the bar alone, you can sit at the bar and chat with the bartender. If you’re with friends or on a date, the staff can help you choose the right table.
Craft Cocktails: The drinks menu offers artful cocktails, mocktails, wines and spirits. Bartenders prepare drinks using high-quality ingredients like homemade syrups, fresh herbs, and unique spirits.
Interactive Experience: Bartenders are happy to create a customised drink. This level of personalisation makes your experience engaging.
Dress code: It is generally casual-smart. Think along the lines of a nice shirt, a stylish dress, or anything that makes you feel a little more dressed up. However, some places may be more relaxed.

How Speakeasies Are Different From Regular Bars
Speakeasies differ from regular bars in the following ways.
Parameter | Speakeasy Bar | Regular Bar |
How to find it? | Speakeasies may have secret doors in bookshelves, be down unmarked staircases, or even inside a café. Some may require a password, reservation, or even clues from their social media to find the entrance. | Regular bars are easy to spot and have direct access. |
Vibe | Refined and feel-good atmosphere. | Casual, and more social atmosphere. |
Dining Experience | Small plates or snacks are usually available. Some speakeasies offer light bites, comfort food and gourmet options | Full food menus that range from casual bites to pub food. |
Drinks Experience | Speakeasies specialise in craft cocktails. Many, like Pinstripe Bar, feature special cocktail menus that pay tribute to local culture or personalities. | Focus on beers, wines, spirits and simpler cocktails |
Cultural Relevance | Inspired by the U.S. Prohibition era. | Part of mainstream bar culture, sometimes with themes tied to the owner’s interests, stories or experiences. |
Pinstripe Bar: Bali’s Premier Speakeasy Bar
Visit our Bali speakeasy; Pinstripe Bar for some of the best cocktails in Bali, premium spirits, top-notch wines, delectable gourmet food, and a cigar bar — all in one exclusive space.
We assure you a distinctively cherished experience, whether you’re with friends or your soulmate.
Make a reservation.