Speakeasies in New York City and How to Incorporate Your English Learning Skills January 9, 2018

I didn’t realize how fun a speakeasy could be until I actually experienced my first one. When you think about it, nowadays, a speakeasy is just basically a hidden bar. That’s it. During the Prohibition era when drinking wasn’t legal, these were the places that people could get in to drink and stay a bit further away from the law. But as I said, since drinking IS legal now, there kind of really isn’t a point to these spots other than they’re just a ton of fun. Perhaps part of the fun comes with the idea that you feel you’re in a secret club or like you’re even tucked away from the rest of the world, which can be a comforting feeling during the coldest days of the year.

When I went to my first speakeasy, we walked into a fast food restaurant and told someone at the front color a password. They then led us through the back into a secret door, and lo and behold, a full bar! It was SO cool! For the rest of the night, we just kept talking about the place with other bar-goers just like us, discussing our drinks, how long it took us to figure out how to get in, and how exclusive we felt. If you feel like checking some out, I’ve come up with a list for you to try out so you can also chat about the experience with everyone else, exercising your English skills AND meeting new people all at the same time!

1. Attaboy, 134 Eldridge Street, Lower East Side

Though I haven’t been to this location just yet, I included this spot at the top of my list because I’m DYING to try this one out! Part of reason I want to give it a whirl is because they don’t even have drink menus—all you do is tell the bartender what your favorite liquor or mixer is, and they concoct something specifically unique just for you! I’ve also been told that you have to pay very close attention to the location, as if you’re not careful, you’ll miss it completely—look for a giant neon “A” in the window—there’s your entrance! Be sure to practice words like, “gin,” “sour mix,” and “That’s delicious!” so you can communicate well with the bartenders.

2. The Back Room, 102 Norfolk Street, Lower East Side

I chose to include this one because it’s actually one of the original speakeasies during the Prohibition, so this location is going to give you as an authentic experience as you can get in New York City—they even use the same entrance as they did over 80 years ago! They even serve you your drinks in teacups and bottles in paper bags—talk about staying true! When you get there, look for a sign that says, “Lower Easy Side Toy Company,” which will then lead down a flight of stairs to the secret entrance. Trust me, you’ll get your English skills tested here when looking for directions and all these secret signs!

3. Auction House, 300 East 89^th Street, Upper East Side

I’m including this one because not only is it in my neighborhood, but what I like about it is that it’s great for a more intimate setting. I came here once with someone that I was dating, and we realized we liked it so much because it was specifically set up for couples. We didn’t have to worry about excessive partiers, either, since they only let in people over the age of 25. It was a nice and relaxing atmosphere, and given the tucked away nature of the bar, we enjoyed our privacy and time alone. This is the perfect time to practice your English sweet-nothings with your special loved one.

4. Middle Branch, 154 East 33^rd Street, Murray Hill

I’m including this location for selfish reasons—my office is located in this neighborhood, so it’s a reminder (for myself!) to check this place out one day after work! Pay attention to the location, as the location is an unmarked townhouse—once there, head down the stairs where you can find the bouncer. When you get inside, you’ll see how surprisingly large it is, as it’s two stories! The music is reminiscent of the Prohibition era, as they have live jazz, taking you back in time and giving you a breath of fresh air from current heart-pounding music of our time. It’s intimate despite its space, so you’ll be able to practice your English socializing skills easily, so bring your friends for a fun and different Happy Hour!