Are you tired of the same old bars and drink choices? Prepare to reignite your spark as you step back in time to the roaring twenties, when nightlife was risky, thrilling and whimsical. While the times have changed dramatically since then, speakeasies are still very much alive, especially in the great city of Atlanta. Let’s dive into some of Atlanta’s best-kept secrets as we discover five speakeasies within 50 miles of Gwinnett County.
GAJA KOREAN BAR
East Atlanta Village
Tucked away between a smoke shop and a mini-market, the entrance to this unique restaurant and bar is so unsuspecting that you might miss it. Gaja Korean Bar pays homage to Chef Allen Suh’s Korean roots, featuring unique twists on East Asia’s classic flavors and sips. This joint’s edgy yet modern design makes you feel like you’ve just stumbled into an underground bar on the streets of Seoul. So look for the discreet blue door, get ready to raise a bottle of Soju and dig into some authentic Korean bites at this immersive experience.
THE ROARING SOCIAL
Alpharetta
Step into the secret world of the 1920s as you listen to live music, dance the night away and sip on some “prohibited” drinks at this speakeasy. This lively bar looks like a 1920s clothing store from the outside, but don’t be fooled. Pick up the phone, whisper the secret password and prepare to travel back in time! Located in the Hamilton Hotel in Alpharetta, the Roaring Social offers a social experience like no other, with boutique bowling, karaoke, music and guaranteed good times.
RED PHONE BOOTH
Downtown Atlanta & Buckhead
Ring, ring! Dial into this exclusive cigar lounge and bar with two locations in Downtown Atlanta and Buckhead. The Red Phone Booth is a hidden gem that will transport you back to the 1920s. Entrance to this iconic lounge is exclusive, as you must secure the code from a member to get in. We’ll give you a little tip, though: talk to a nearby hotel concierge; if they’re feeling generous, they might just help you out. The Red Phone Booth encourages guests to dress to impress so they can feel fully immersed in this world of imagination, fun and intrigue inspired by the Roaring Twenties.
JOJO’S BELOVED
Midtown
While speakeasies started in the 20s, this lounge takes these hidden bars to a new decade. Located in Midtown at Colony Square, Jojo’s Beloved is an ode to all things groovy. At this 70’s themed cocktail bar, you can sip on a hand-crafted cocktail and let your worries melt away while listening to an all-vinyl soundtrack to bring you right back to the disco days. The bar offers a wide selection, from luxury spirits and classic cocktails to signature drinks and shots.
12 COCKTAIL BAR
Old Fourth Ward- Ponce City Market
Not interested in going on a wild goose chase or entering a shady alley to experience Atlanta’s best-kept secrets? We’ve got just the thing for you. 12 Cocktail Bar is a lesser-known spot located on the roof of Ponce City Market. With views of Atlanta’s breathtaking skyline paired with the modern aesthetic of Ponce City Market, this bar will give you the best of both worlds, seclusion and that classic city feel. This sophisticated lounge offers a list of sensational signature drinks and classic cocktails. Or, talk to the award-winning bartenders and have them craft something personal for you instead.