What is a speakeasy? Here's why the prohibition-era establishments were so popular.
They say trends are cyclical – take the ‘90s blowout, for example, which has made a robust comeback, or the disposable camera which now finds itself the subject of a renaissance among twenty-somethings.
Could prohibition nightlife be next? The speakeasy, a staple of the 1920s and early 1930s, when alcohol was illegal in the United States and thirsty patrons had to tunnel underground to seek out spirits, is no longer a relic of the past.
Popular modern speakeasies can be found all across the states from New York to Chicago. Here's how they first got their name.
What is a speakeasy?
A speakeasy, in its strict definition, is a place where alcoholic beverages are illegally sold, particularly during the prohibition era. At this time, the manufacture, sale and transport of alcohol was illegal in the U.S. and speakeasies served as underground, secret establishments where Americans still seeking spirits could indulge.
A modern speakeasy, however, does not require illegality and instead it refers to a bar that still has the ‘hidden’ quality, often concealed behind a door in a restaurant or hotel.
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Why were speakeasies popular?
During prohibition, the speakeasy served as a concealed way for Americans to access alcohol and partake in the nightlife that comes with it. When, with the passing of the 18th amendment, alcohol became effectively banned in the United States, out-in-the-open bars were replaced by these discreet pubs.
Now, the purpose of a speakeasy is different. With no scarcity of other bars to frequent, the speakeasy experience is more about the ambiance than the need to hide out.
Why is it called a speakeasy?
The History Channel reports that specific etymology of the word ‘speakeasy’ is hazy, but some say it was born out of the fact that bar-goers had to whisper or “speak easy” through a tiny opening in a door in order to gain access to the secret taverns.
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What is a modern day speakeasy?
Increasingly popular, the modern-day speakeasy is essentially just a bar meant to be shrouded in secrecy. Since alcohol is no longer illegal, these establishments hinge on the feeling of discreetness, often hidden inside other restaurants or other venues, and embodying a prohibition vibe, some with dim lighting.
As Thrillist reported in 2017, the social media age and the desire of patrons to yelp their every move makes the modern-day speakeasy’s success a delicate balance. While promotion is necessary, it also runs counter to the very fiber of the speakeasy concept.
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What was the most famous speakeasy?
This question is, of course, subjective. New York’s 21 Club, however, was particularly known during the prohibition era, as unlike other speakeasies it was not a dusty tavern but instead an intricate combo of bars, a dance floor, and a restaurant.
The 21 Club remained an NYC hot spot even after prohibition was lifted, welcoming patrons for over eighty years before they closed their doors during the pandemic.
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is a speakeasy? Historic and modern day speakeasies explained.