Spokane’s frost-kissed winters and fog-draped evenings practically beg for the warmth of hidden haunts where time slows and whispers linger. Channeling the clandestine spirit of Prohibition-era speakeasies and secret spaces where jazz hummed under hushed voices and cocktails flowed despite the law, Spokane’s modern incarnations trade illicit thrills for intimate charm.
Tucked behind unmarked doors or disguised as unassuming storefronts, these bars wrap patrons in dim, amber-lit corners, velvet banquettes, and cocktails crafted like liquid art. Gone are the days of password whispers to evade raids, but the allure of discovery remains. Each sip feels like sharing a secret, and any visit is a nod to Spokane’s rebellious past. Here, the only thing sharper than the mixologists’ skills is the thrill of finding a hideaway where history and hospitality collide at cozy Spokane bars with speakeasy vibes.
Durkin’s Liquor Bar
415 W Main Avenue, Spokane
509.863.9501
Durkin’s Liquor Bar, Spokane’s crown jewel of neo-speakeasies, pays homage to its namesake, Jimmie Durkin, a pre-Prohibition liquor tycoon whose larger-than-life legacy lingers in every corner. Upon entering through the impressive nine-foot front door, patrons will discover a lively dining area offering swank, diner-chic fare.
However, what’s hidden beneath the floorboards feet is truly the establishment’s best-kept secret. Descending into the basement feels like stepping into a 1910s hideaway, where vintage charm and modern sophistication blend seamlessly. The intimate, dimly lit space, accented with rich wood tones, creates the perfect backdrop for enjoying a range of expertly crafted cocktails. Signature drinks like the classic Old Fashioned with Woodford Reserve and the Coffee Boulevardier, infused with coffee-sweet vermouth, bourbon, and Campari, showcase the bar’s dedication to mixology. Patrons can also savor the surprising Scofflaw, a delightful blend of rye whiskey, dry vermouth, homemade grenadine, fresh lemon, and orange bitters. Durkin’s provides an unparalleled speakeasy experience that transports guests to the early 20th century while offering the finest contemporary cocktail creations. Here, Spokane’s history isn’t just told. It’s poured over ice.
Hogwash Whiskey Den
304 W Pacific Avenue, Spokane
509.464.6541
Descending into Hogwash Whiskey Den feels like uncovering a well-kept secret. The cozy bar with speakeasy vibes is hidden in the basement of the historic Washington Cracker Building, where the den brims with an authentic, industrial charm that can’t be replicated. The low ceilings and charred posts, remnants of a long-ago warehouse fire, create a unique atmosphere that transports patrons back in time.
Since its inception, Hogwash has been one of Spokane’s hottest cocktail spots, offering late 19th-century wood, concrete, steel, and stone elements blended with modern fixtures and seating. The bar boasts an extensive selection of whiskeys from around the world and consistently delivers some of the highest levels of cocktail creation and execution in the city. A standout feature is the bespoke clarified milk punch, a rarity in the region, perfected by the renowned bartender and owner Simon Moorby over three years.
Volstead Act
12 N Post Street, Spokane
509.808.2516
Located within the historic Peyton Building, Volstead Act brings a touch of 1920s nostalgia to Spokane’s cocktail scene. The bar’s entrance on Post Street invites patrons into an atmosphere inspired by Prohibition-era speakeasies, yet with a contemporary twist. The interior is welcoming, with bartenders greeting guests as they arrive and the bar dominating the back wall to create an intimate setting.
Volstead Act emphasizes the artistry of mixology, using fresh ingredients like herbs and fresh-squeezed fruit juices to craft dramatic, flavorful, and so-good-they-should-be-illegal concoctions. The establishment takes its name from the 1919 Volstead Act, which initiated Prohibition, a fitting homage as it now celebrates the repeal of the 18th Amendment by serving craft cocktails in style. Signature drinks like the Kentucky Fields, featuring bourbon, Cynar (an artichoke-based liqueur), lemon juice, and strawberries, showcase the bar’s innovative mixology and nod to historical flavors.
Gilded Unicorn
110 S Monroe Street, Spokane
509.309.3698
Beneath the historic streets of Downtown Spokane lies the Gilded Unicorn, a speakeasy-style bar and restaurant that blends old-world charm with magical whimsy. Occupying the subterranean space of the former Catacombs Restaurant under the Montvale Hotel, the local watering hole’s secretive atmosphere is reminiscent of the clandestine venues of the 1920s, complete with dim lighting and intimate spaces.
The ambiance blends old-world elegance and playful gaudiness, featuring natural rock walls, faux gold accents, and metallic unicorn busts that watch over cozy alcoves. Guests can indulge in handcrafted cocktails and reimagined, classic American dishes from the ’50s and ’60s, all made with the finest local ingredients. The Gilded Unicorn’s playful yet nostalgic atmosphere makes it a standout destination for those seeking a speakeasy experience with a dash of enchantment.
Cease and Desist Book Club
108 N Washington Street Suite 100, Spokane
509.413.1069
Cease and Desist Book Club is a hidden gem in downtown Spokane, offering a quintessential speakeasy experience that harkens back to the Prohibition era. The entrance is cleverly concealed behind a wall of bookshelves in a plain storefront on Riverside Avenue, adding an element of intrigue and adventure. Inside, the dimly lit bar exudes warmth with art deco motifs and unique decor, including walls of brick, wood, wallpaper, and a tribute to Hemingway.
An impressive selection of spirits is displayed on well-lit glass shelves, providing countless choices for liquor enthusiasts, especially those fond of whiskey and gin. The thoughtfully crafted cocktail menu features signature drinks like the “Not My Fault,” a bright and aromatic blend of citrus, peach, and basil, and the smoked Old Fashioned, offering oaky warmth with a lingering smoky finish. With its cozy ambiance and expertly mixed cocktails, Cease and Desist captures the essence of a true speakeasy, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique night out.
Le VERRE
210 N Howard Street, Spokane
509.315.5381
Le VERRE, the newest speakeasy wine and cocktail bar in downtown Spokane, transports patrons to a bygone era of Hollywood glamour with a French twist. Nestled within the historic Bennett Block, this enchanting venue features a wall-length mural of showbiz icons like Frank Sinatra and Sophia Loren, setting the stage for a nostalgic journey.
The dim lighting, vintage chandeliers, and soft jazz create an intimate atmosphere reminiscent of the Rat Pack era. Guests can savor fine wines and handcrafted cocktails while soaking in the sultry, retro vibes. Le VERRE seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern sophistication, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique speakeasy experience.
Baby Bar
827 W 1st Avenue, Spokane
209.847.1234
Tucked discreetly behind a velvet curtain, Baby Bar is Spokane’s secret haven that captures the essence of a classic speakeasy. Despite being one of the smallest bars in Spokane, it packs a punch with its unique atmosphere and potent cocktails. The dim red lighting casts a warm glow over mirrored surfaces and quirky art pieces, enveloping visitors in a cozy embrace.
Known for its strong, affordable drinks mixed with fresh, hand-squeezed ingredients, the bar delights patrons seeking quality without pretense. The eclectic crowd of hipsters, artists, and free spirits adds to the energetic yet laid-back vibe, especially when live music fills the intimate space.
Spokane’s rich history and enchanting landscapes make it the perfect backdrop for a modern speakeasy adventure. Whether you’re sharing whispered conversations with friends or savoring a handcrafted cocktail alone, Spokane’s speakeasy-inspired bars offer the ideal escape. So, embrace the allure of discovery and let the city’s secret haunts wrap you in warmth and nostalgia. Your next favorite hideaway awaits just behind an unmarked door!
