At surface level, exploring Philadelphia speakeasy establishments and hidden bars is about merely finding a place that offers the drinks you enjoy, but with a touch of ambiance of course. If you take it a step further, however, you’ll realize that it can be a far more immersive and layered experience than that. With origins that can be traced back to the Prohibition era, between 1920 and 1933 when the trade of alcoholic beverages was prohibited by law, speakeasies and hidden bars have maintained the allure and obscurity throughout the years – much like land-based and online casino establishments.
Take a closer look at some of the best speakeasies and hidden bars in Philly, as well as how to get into them for the full experience.
Best Speakeasies and Hidden Bars in Philly
Not many cities can boast of having a nightlife as vibrant as Philly’s, which includes top gaming options for novice and experienced poker players and casino enthusiasts in general, and speakeasies and hidden bars form an essential part of it. Highly recommended are the hidden gems in Philadelphia listed below.
1. Hop Sing Laundromat
Far from being your average laundromat, Hop Sing Laundromat is located at 1029 Race Street, Philadelphia. Known for its cocktails, electrifying ambiance and service, there’s a lot more to this establishment than meets the eye. Only a select few know of its charming and classic-inspired interior because once you step into this cocktail bar, phones are prohibited. Hop Sing Laundromat deals only in cash, so patrons are encouraged to plan ahead before making their way.
Access to Hop Sing Laundromat is through an unmarked black gate with a buzzer. You’ll be requested to provide your ID, so be sure to have that in hand. Thereafter, they’ll verify that you aren’t banned before talking you through the rules and walking you to your table.
2. Vesper Center City
Located at 223 S Sydenham Street, Philadelphia, Vesper Center City evolved from being a Prohibition-era speakeasy to a gentlemen’s club and then ultimately what it is today. The main bar is not a secret and many make their way to it to wrap up a long day or week, but there’s more to this establishment. It offers standard and seasonal cocktails, as well as one of the most exclusive hidden bars in Philadelphia, which is concealed behind a bookcase.
To gain access to the hidden bar, you can either convince the staff that you’re worthy of being in the inner circle and have them give you the secret club’s secret password or eavesdrop really well and hope to catch it in surrounding conversations. Thereafter, you can make your way to the rotary phone, say the password and the bookcase will open up and let you in. Bingo.
3. The Pen & Pencil Club
The name of this hidden bar is very telling. Unlike the newly-established and modern speakeasies on this list, The Pen & Pencil Club is one of the oldest press clubs in the country and holds a special place in Philly circles because of that. Located at 1522 Latimer Street, Philadelphia, this speakeasy in Philly typically welcomes writers, journalists, radio hosts and similar media personalities.
Although it’s a members-only club, the members are known to be quite accommodating and often open to sponsoring and welcoming others in. So, you can either become a member or if you’re just looking to explore on a once-off basis, search for a neon P&P sign and try your luck.
4. The Foto Club
Situated at 3743 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, The Foto Club is a social club with a bar and outdoor seating. Considering that it’s complete with a dance floor, some might say that it’s for the young at heart with the stamina to endure a full night of socializing. The Foto Club is a standalone building with warm, welcoming lights to guide you to its doors.
Access to The Foto Club is for members only, but you can get a member friend to vouch for you if you want to get in on all the action.
5. Graffiti Bar
Located at 124 S 13th Street, Philadelphia, Graffiti Bar is the light at the end of the tunnel after walking down a dark alleyway. As the name suggests, Graffiti Bar is heavily influenced by street art and creative expression, something that also comes through in the bar’s interior and décor. Interestingly, it offers Asian cuisine and there are often specials on wine, beer and cocktails.
Possibly one of the easier hidden bars to access, you just have to walk in once you spot the neon red signage after your walk down the alleyway.
Immerse Yourself in the Charm of an Online Casino
Philly’s best speakeasies and hidden bars are characterized by a certain mystery and charm that attracts locals and visitors time and time again. In fact, it can be likened to the appeal and history of gambling, which only a select few may truly understand. Whether you enjoy online poker, baccarat or any of the other classic casino games, you’ll be able to access them when you register at Borgata Online.