Speakeasies were secret clubs that rose in popularity during a nationwide alcohol ban in the United States back in the 1920s. They quickly gained popularity and were defined by their own unique style—complete with creative secret entrances.
Today, these type of establishments can be found right here in Manila, offering a unique, mysterious, and private ambience to its patrons.
Chino Roces Avenue Corner Sabio Street, San Lorenzo, Makati City
Open from Tuesday to Saturday (8 PM to 4 AM)
Photo courtesy of Juro via Finders Keepers MNL Facebook
How to get in: Finders Keepers is located in a seemingly dilapidated and rusty warehouse container at the back of the La Fuerza Plaza Complex.
Recommended Drink: White Sangria—a mixture of white wine, Blanco, and Bombay Sapphire.
Plus Point: At the stroke of midnight, patrons are treated to a lively mix of 70s, 80s, and Samba music. The bar quickly turns from a sit-down drinking place to a dance club.
22 Jupiter Corner Galaxy Street, Bel-Air, Makati City
Open Daily (6 PM to 2 AM)
Photo courtesy of Zomato
How to get in: The entrance to ABV is hidden behind an antique elevator shaft inside The Lazy Bastard Restobar. Once you locate the entrance, all you have to do to get in is whisper the secret password (which you’ll find on their website).
Recommended Drink: Classic Whiskey Sour. They also have a secret drinks menu (ask the bartender for the “bible”) filled with unique craft cocktails.
Plus Point: They regularly hold bartending and cocktail-making classes.
Corinthian Plaza, 121 Paseo De Roxas, Legaspi Village, Makati City
Open Daily (5:30 PM to 2 AM)
Photo courtesy of Tammy David via Spot.ph
How to get in: The bar is located at the back of the Plaza Cafe. Keep your eyes peeled or you might miss the entrance disguised as an ordinary Emergency Exit Door.
Recommended Drink: The James Bond Melon Ball— A mixture of vodka, Grand Marnier, lime, and watermelon.
Plus Point: They are also known for importing a wide variety of international beers such as Sapporo, Hitachino Nest, and Blue Moon.
227 Salcedo Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City
Open Sunday to Thursday (6 PM to 2 AM), Friday-Saturday (6 PM to 3 AM)
Photo courtesy of The Blind Pig
How to get in: This bar is by reservation only, so call ahead to secure a spot. You’ll have to keep a sharp eye as the only marker to the entrance is a black sign written in braille.
Recommended Drink: The Mint Julep—a combination of bourbon, sugar syrup, and sprigs of fresh mint.
Plus Point: Blind Pig is heralded as one of Metro Manila’s very first speakeasies, and promises a quiet and private drinking experience.
2nd Floor Frank & Dean Cafe & Kitchen, Forbes Town Center, Burgos Circle, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
Open Thursday to Sunday (7 PM to 3 AM)
Photo courtesy of Nikki Pascua via Pepper.ph
How to get in: Head on up to the second floor of the Frank & Dean Cafe & Kitchen, where you can find the entrance hidden behind one of the wall-mounted telephones.
Recommended Drink: Their Old Fashioned Cocktail—a mix of Maker’s Mark bourbon, syrup, fresh oranges, and cherries for flavor.
Plus Point: The dimly lit interior, neon lights, and posh leather seats have been used as the backdrop for many intimate photoshoots.
RCBC Savings Bank Corporate Center, 26th and 25th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City
Open Monday-Friday (5 PM to 3 AM), Saturday (8 PM to 4 AM)
Photo courtesy of Spot.p
How to get in: Bank Bar’s doorway is cleverly disguised as a stock room door inside the 7-Eleven on the ground floor of the RCBC Savings Bank Corporate Center.
Recommended Drink: Blood & Sand cocktail—a mix made with Scotch and Vermouth.
Plus Point: Right before closing time, they serve a menu of classic hangover food such as yakisoba, pork belly chahan, and fried rice.
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