Best Speakeasy Bars In London

• Location: Floor 2 and 3, 76 Commercial Street, E1 6LY
• Why we recommend: combining 1920s America and modern day China, this is one of the most unique speakeasies on our list

The Shanghai Cocktail Lounge is where Prohibition-era tipples meet modern mixology. This chic speakeasy-style bar in the heart of East London takes you on a journey back in time with its opulent interiors, dimly lit corners, and sultry atmosphere.

Perfect for those in the know, it's the ultimate spot for inventive cocktails profiling flavours from the vast regions of China paired with dim sum, and an unforgettable night out with a touch of mystery.

• Location: The Mezzanine, Royal Exchange, EC3V 3LQ
• Why we recommend: we love the gorgeous, art deco interiors here, perfect for snapping a few pictures while you eat and drink

Discover London's Hidden Gem: Engel Bar Escape to the enchanting Engel Bar, a hidden speakeasy tucked away in the iconic Grade I-listed Royal Exchange. Just a stone's throw from Bank station, this 1920s Berlin-inspired bar boasts stunning Art Deco details, graceful arches, and cozy armchairs with courtyard views.

Only a short walk from Bank station, the venue provides a tempting snack menu serving the likes of frites, oysters and German charcuterie alongside a tempting cocktail menu. Try the likes of the Rémy Martin 1738-based Skandal or the Trüffel-Martini and thank us later. 

• Location: 129 City Road, Shoreditch, EC1V 1JB
• Why we recommend: with a limited menu of cocktails, you can be sure that everything this place serves is excellent

A cool basement cranny situated underneath Casita, Found is up there with London's best speakeasies. A hidden gem on the vintage scene, this bar is serving up a limited number of cocktails, but you can be sure that they're of first-class quality.

Expect exposed brick walls, dark wooden furniture and low lighting, all tucked away at the bottom of a secretive staircase. 

• Location: 135 Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green, E1 5RN
• Why we recommend: promising music and cocktails in an exclusive setting, this is a top pick for date night or intimate celebrations

Nestled in the heart of Stepney and Bethnal Green, 135 Bar & Lounge is a stunning transformation of a traditional pub into an intimate cocktail haven inspired by the golden age of speakeasies. With plush seating, dim lighting, and Art Deco touches, this sophisticated venue exudes timeless elegance.

Perfect for creative professionals, the venue offers a members club atmosphere where guests can enjoy an expertly crafted cocktail menu, live music, and a curated selection of high-quality bar food. Whether you're sipping on classic cocktails or exploring new mixology innovations, 135 is the place to unwind in style.

• Location: 134-146 Curtain Road, Shoreditch, EC2A 3AR
• Why we recommend: bringing you an American vibe through its snacks and whiskey concoctions, this cool basement bar has got everything you love about Blues Kitchen - just more secretive

Meet Moonshine Minnie's: a slinky bar below The Blues Kitchen. Hit up the swoon-worthy Shoreditch haunt where you can enjoy classic whiskey cocktails, delicious southern American bar snacks, and all that hidden atmosphere you've been looking for.

The basement space is also beautifully decorated, featuring Victorian tiles, rope panelling and a quirky stained glass ceiling that fills the room with colour.

• Location: 489 Hackney Road, Bethnal Green, E2 9ED
• Why we recommend: they've got one of the largest drinks selections around, a particularly great choice for whisky lovers

With its dark and moody interiors, exposed brick walls and leather seating, The Natural Philosopher transports you back to the speakeasy bars of old. Hidden away behind The MacSmith's repair shop, it serves up one of the finest selections of whiskies this side of London.

If a wee dram's not for you, there's all kinds of craft beer, highballs and classic cocktails to wet your whistle. Whatever your tipple, the secret's out - this is one mighty fine place to drink it.

• Location: 129 City Road, Shoreditch, EC1V 1JB
• Why we recommend: this bar is always celebrated for its atmopshere ands cocktails, and has won several awards too - including multiple appearances on The World's 50 Best Bars list

Shoreditch Nightjar is transporting you back in time, courtesy of its Prohibition-esque interiors and live tunes. The menu will see you working your way through the eras, starting with stunning cocktails from the 1600s all the way up until early noughties' serves.

This place is renowned across the world, having won multiple awards. They host live music from 9pm throughout the week too, focusing on jazz.

• Location: 80 Houndsditch, EC3A 7AB
• Why we recommend: right in the heart of the city, this luxe destination is a must for scrumptious bites washed down by signature cocktails

Inspired by the sultry speakeasy, Ginger Lily is an ideal spot for those illicit-style sips in the chic space. It boasts a simple, dark colour scheme, with a black marble bar and grey armchairs to relax in.

Located in Pan Pacific London on Liverpool Street, this pretty venue has a great deal of tasty concoctions and Singaporean food, which is sure to hit the spot. They even serve afternoon tea as well.