The Back Room

Fall in Love with Speakeasy Bar!

I’ve had The Back Room saved on my map for such a long time - always meaning to check it out, always thinking, “Next time I’m nearby.” And finally, I made it. Let me just say - it absolutely lived up to the hype. This speakeasy bar tucked away in the Lower East Side offers an experience that goes way beyond just drinks. It captures the spirit of the Prohibition era so well that you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a well-kept secret from the 1920s.

And the entrance? So hidden and obscure that we literally found ourselves saying:

“Is this the entrance?”

You walk down a dim, narrow alleyway that doesn’t even look like a bar is nearby. It’s the kind of spot you could walk past a hundred times without realizing it holds something special behind the door. That’s the magic of The Back Room - it makes you feel like you’re in the know, part of a secret club with a password and hidden portal.

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To Go Into This Secret Bar

The entrance is discreet - almost too discreet - which adds to the whole mystique. When you first approach it, you’ll probably second-guess yourself. But push forward. You’ll pass through a little gate, follow a hallway lined with old brick, and eventually find yourself facing an old wooden door with nothing flashy to indicate what lies behind it.

Once you step inside, it feels like a time machine. The lighting is dim and golden. The furniture is plush and vintage. The shelves are lined with old books, antique lamps, and little details that instantly set the tone. You’re not just at a bar — you’re part of an era long gone.

Just one quick tip - hats are not allowed inside. So if you’re coming straight from another place and wearing one, be prepared to take it off. It’s one of those subtle rules that makes you feel like you’ve entered a place with its own set of customs - like a hidden society.

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How Was It?

We ended up staying way longer than expected - from a quick visit to closing time. That’s how much we enjoyed the atmosphere. We tried a variety of cocktails, and while the drinks themselves were good, what really stood out was how the whole bar experience wrapped around them.

Honestly, the cocktails were pretty classic. If you’re looking for creative, over-the-top Instagrammable drinks, this isn’t the place. But if you’re craving well-crafted, traditional cocktails in a unique setting, you’re in luck. One bonus? The cocktails are actually more affordable compared to most other NYC bars, which was a pleasant surprise.

I had a classic espresso martini , and my boyfriend tried an Old Fashioned his always choice. They were well-balanced, not overly sweet, and strong enough to satisfy. We also tried a few seasonal options that the bartender recommended, which was a nice touch. They seemed to genuinely enjoy chatting about cocktails and the bar’s history.

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Layout and Atmosphere

The layout of the bar is intimate and unique. The main floor has a long wooden bar and standing space - no tables down there. So if you’re coming with a group, you’ll want to either head upstairs or reserve a spot in advance.

There’s also a private group room hidden behind what looks like just a wall. We couldn’t get in during our visit - it was closed - but it adds another layer of speakeasy charm. You’d never know it was there unless someone pointed it out. It’s perfect for birthdays, small celebrations, or even just a more exclusive night out with friends.

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The Small Details

What really sets The Back Room apart are the immersive details. Liquor is served with a silver tray and ice bucket, just like it would have been back in the Prohibition days. At some tables, you’ll see what looks like a globe - but open it up, and it’s actually a clever hiding spot for your drinks.

Drinks are served in teacups and mugs, rather than standard barware — another clever nod to the days when alcohol had to be disguised. Even the beer comes in brown paper bags, just like it might have back when people were trying to keep things under wraps.

Even the menus play into the experience. The design includes a little “shh!” gesture illustration - a playful but fitting detail that reinforces the whole speakeasy theme.

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Don’t Miss the Vintage Decor

The bathroom area features an old-school phone booth and antique cigarette machines. It feels like every corner of this place has been curated with love and care — nothing feels random or out of place. It’s almost like stepping onto the set of a film noir. There’s a sense of mystery and romance in the air, and you’ll find yourself lingering just to take it all in.

The music during our visit was a mix of 70s and 80s pop — think Fleetwood Mac and The Smiths. It paired surprisingly well with the vintage vibe. We expected jazz or swing, but somehow the retro pop fit perfectly. It added just the right amount of energy without pulling you out of the ambiance.

Even the crowd felt curated. It wasn’t noisy or chaotic — people were relaxed, talking in low voices, soaking up the scene. It’s the kind of place where time slows down.

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Final Thoughts: Should You Go?

The biggest draw of The Back Room isn’t just the drinks — it’s the experience. It’s rare to find a place that commits this fully to a theme and still delivers on comfort and atmosphere. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another time, and for a few hours, the outside world melts away.

Whether you’re a history buff, a cocktail enthusiast, or just someone looking for a unique night out, this bar offers something genuinely special. It’s romantic, nostalgic, and quietly dramatic in all the best ways.

We’ll definitely be back.