The best speakeasies in Chicago

A Chicago speakeasy may be hard to find, but if you know what you're looking for these underground bars are everywhere

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By Sara Freund Posted: Friday May 6 2016

During the Prohibition era, speakeasies popped up all over Chicago to quench the thirst of locals and mobsters. Chicago never really sobered up in the 1920s and speakeasies didn't disappear either. There are lots of unusual bars where you can grab a drink as well as secret bars to discover in Chicago. We've rounded up the best modern-day, underground speakeasies—now all you have to do is figure out how to get in.

RECOMMENDED: Uncover more of the best bars in Chicago

Chicago's best speakeasies

The Office

This essentially invitation-only bar (you can get rather pricey reservations through Tock) is a cozy 14-seat basement room decorated with antiques, framed paintings and sporting $20 cocktails. If you're lucky, your server upstairs at the Aviary may invite you to step through the locked door.

West Loop

Milk Room

The Milk Room is located in the hallway between the Drawing Room and Game Room in what was formerly a speakeasy in the Chicago Athletic Association. To drink at this eight-seat bar, you'll need to purchase $50 tickets which will be applied to your bill.

Loop

The Drifter

The Green Door Tavern used to be patronized by Chicago gangsters, taking its name from the discreet entrance on the side of the building. If you walk down the metal staircase leading to the bathrooms—you’ll notice a door to a room that housed a speakeasy in the ’20s. That's the entrance to The Drifter, a craft cocktail bar with live entertainment and some stunning decor.

River North

The Violet Hour

You won't see any signs for Violet Hour, only a long line of people waiting outside of an ever-changing, abstractly painted building. Enjoy pristine, thoughtfully crafted cocktails in towering modern-style thrones at this Wicker Park staple.

Wicker Park

Punch House

Find this '70s-themed bar hidden in the basement of Thalia Hall, which is decorated to look like place where your grandfather might have realxed. The drinks here are meant to be shared so grab a group of friends and order a colorful punch bowl.

Lower West Side

The Library at Gilt Bar

Downstairs from the Gilt Bar you'll find a dimly lit room with red velvet booths and stacks of old books. The Library will make you feel like you've escaped to you're own secret club. Order top-notch classic cocktails or pick something off Gilt Bar's full menu.

River North

Room 13

This members-only club is located beneath The Old Chicago Inn. Entrance into this prohibition-era style bar requires a membership, an ever-changing password and proper attire. If you come as a member's guest then you'll be able to enjoy live jazz and 1920's inspired cocktails.

Lake View