Getting into a Prohibition-era speakeasy in the Roaring Twenties could be some whiskey business. Today, speakeasy-style bars — like these six in the Holy City — act as a nod to the past. Except this time, it’s totally legal.
Blind Tiger Pub
📍36-38 Broad St.
Blind Tiger Pub is said to be named in honor of the many speakeasies rumored to have been located on Broad Street throughout the years. The pub was reborn in 2016 and honors the legacy of “Blind Tigers,” drinking + gambling establishments opening in the midst of temperance legislation, that came over a century before this local spot. “Blind Tigers” date back to 1893 in the Holy City.
Beware: this Broad Street tavern — like many other spots in Charleston — has had its fair share of paranormal activity.
Scotty Doesn’t Know
📍247 E. Bay St.
Reopened in September 2021 by three Citadel graduates, Big John’s Tavern replaced the former Cane Rhum Bar & Caribbean Kitchen and returned in full force with a reservation-only speakeasy bar “Scotty Doesn’t Know.”
DYK that the original Big John’s opened in 1955 + remained a renowned Citadel hangout until it closed in 2015?
The Spectator Bar
📍67 State St.
Pro tip: Stop by this bar located in The Spectator Hotel every third Thursday of the month for live music from local musicians + enjoy 1920s-style refreshments, wine, craft beer, and bar plates.
Bar Vauté
📍1 Broad St.
Located beneath Brasserie La Banque, Bar Vauté is one of the city’s only below-street-level bars. Good news, there’s no password required for this spot serving cocktails + bites Tuesday through Saturday.
The Cocktail Club
📍479 King St.
Enjoy panoramic views of downtown Charleston from The Cocktail Club’s rooftop terrace while sipping on a cocktail, glass of wine, or a beer. This speakeasy-style bar is worth the visit — trust us.
Prohibition
📍547 King St.
In case the name didn’t make it clear, Prohibition is described as a nod to the 1920s speakeasy featuring vintage-style decor, cocktails, a collection of whiskeys, and brunch + dinner. Check out live music during New Music Thursdays and Bluegrass brunch performers. Reserve your spot.
Headed to any of these local spots? Share your photos + favorite speakeasy cocktails with us.