In ancient times, speakeasies, aka a blind pig or blind tiger, were establishments serving alcoholic beverages illegally. Now, these are places that are retro and replicate characteristics of antique speakeasies. They have passcodes to enter or are hidden behind objects or inside other establishments, making it difficult for the public eye to catch them. If it's intriguing to visit a bar or eatery like these, read further as we spill some beans on speakeasies to check out around India. Some of these speakeasies might not be directly secretive, but their vibes are similar to those you'd find in the US during the prohibition era.
Secret Speakeasies of India:
Terra Speakeasy
Location: Mumbai, Bandra West
The cat's out of the bag with this speakeasy, located on the rooftop of Hotel Executive Enclave, working as a carbon-positive, solar cocktail bar, housing an enormous collection of artisanal small batch gins and malts. With a speakeasy vibe, this space is great for dinners, brunches, and cocktails, offering delicious food items like quinoa noodles, mushroom sliders, different Asian tapas, and chicken wings— all made by a talented team of chefs from all over the world. The sustainable hotel bar doesn't disappoint its guests, making it great even for wedding ceremonies, bachelorette parties, and any other celebrations.
Price: ₹ 1,500 for two people (approx.) with alcohol #TTSRecommends: Make your own combo meal & Whiskey Sour
10
Location: Bangalore, Ashok Nagar
What makes this speakeasy a secret is its exact location, hidden behind something called the "Paan Studio", where one is required to reveal the passcode to the doorman there. Once you enter, get ready to be surrounded by exquisite chandeliers and jazz music, a scenario that might transport you to olden times. Considered India's finest modern-day speakeasy, they feature live music and entertainment, keeping their guests occupied. They have cocktails curated by India's finest mixologist, Yangdup Lama and food that works well with it, ranging from sushi to tacos, hummus, fried noodles, and more. That's all we can say for the now not-so-secret speakeasy, so visit the speakeasy to know the hype!
Price: ₹ 2,200 for two people (approx.) with alcohol #TTSRecommends: Chicken Teriyaki & Manhattan Madness
PCO (Pass Code Only)
Location: South Delhi, Vasant Vihar
PCO is a one-of-a-kind cocktail bar in South Delhi where guests are required a passcode that's shared only with a private list of people, changing every two to three times a week. With a focus on quality, they have a range of classic cocktails served alongside a varied menu that works around lively flavours. Winning several international and national awards, PCO is India's first speakeasy-style cocktail bar that's been pouring its signatures since 2012. Their Mashed Potatoes, Bacon, Grilled Chicken, and cocktails gel perfectly with their ambience, a mix of jazz music, class and comfort.
Price: ₹ 1,700 for two people (approx.) with alcohol #TTSRecommends: Beetroot Burger & Sunset Martini
Giggle Water
Location: Hyderabad, Jubilee Hills
A concealing spiral staircase and a secret passcode will get you into the speakeasy scenario of Hyderabad's Giggle Water. Running from Wednesday to Sunday, it is always packed, with jazz music filling up the space and gin-based and other cocktails keeping the guests accompanied. Serving Italian, Continental and Fast Food like cuisines, what makes them great is their good music, good portions, and all worth the money. Almost all the nights they are open are filled with events of various kinds, transcending you to a whole other world. To get the passcode, you must shoot your shot in their DMs, and if you're the lucky one, you might be able to experience all this glory.
Price: ₹ 2,200 for two people (approx.) with alcohol #TTSRecommends: Grilled Cottage Cheese & Mafioso
Gin Joint
Location: Goa, Mandrem
One can find Gin Joint hidden in the rustic hills above Verandah, working as a speakeasy that promises to transport you to an era of ease and refinement. Here, you will find several homegrown small-batch gins unique to Goa, unavailable anywhere else. Their menu combines locally sourced organic herbs, floral syrups, and tales to amuse their guests. It is the perfect space to enjoy delicious cocktails, advised before or after alfresco dining. The venue is available to reserve for parties of up to 15 people, even offering a Goa Gin Experience for couples or small groups. Whether you reside in Goa or are there for a vacation, this hillside speakeasy is a great place to make unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
Price: On demand #TTSRecommends: Lavendar Collins