What Working At A Speakeasy Is Really Like
Start writing a post
Restaurants

If You're Curious About Speakeasies, Here's What Working At One Is Really Like

Working at a speakeasy, you see a lot.

550
If You're Curious About Speakeasies, Here's What Working At One Is Really Like
Amanda Marvin

Working at a speakeasy, I have seen a lot more than I first anticipated. From drunken, misbehaving groups of prestigious business people to PDA abusing swinger couples, a night in this type of bar is full of surprises.

Anyone who's seen The Great Gatsby can tell you how exciting, wild and glamorous the environment was for partiers during the early 1900s. Parties typically took place in mansions, boats and little secret bars called speakeasies. From sparkling dresses to impressive cocktails, speakeasies had it all.

A "speakeasy" is a bar during prohibition that was located in a discreet area in order for patrons to enjoy illegal alcoholic beverages without the fear of getting into legal trouble.

The White Rabbit, a new speakeasy in Gilbert, Arizona, is disguised as an apothecary. Above are some medicines and items one might've found in a 1920s facility. Photo by Amanda Marvin

While prohibition ended about 86 years ago on Dec. 5, 1933, we still see speakeasies in the news, on social media and in our communities. So, what's the reason for the popularity of these hidden bars when they are no longer necessary?

Some say it's the adventure of the secrecy of a hidden bar. Others say it's the fun, back-in-time vibe that these businesses have. From my experience, I say it's the illusion that there are no rules once you enter the underground, dark room.

As soon as guests push open the bookcase door and step into the classically decorated bar, their eyes double in size and their mouths drop. Like a kid in a candy shop, I have seen full-grown adults giggle –and even jump- with excitement upon entering the speakeasy.

Hallway in The White Rabbit, a new speakeasy-themed bar in Gilbert, Arizona.Photo by Amanda Marvin

Not only are they dazzled by the secret hallway and beautiful décor of the facility, but they are thrilled to be in such a place historically known for bad behavior and a lawless policy.

As I look around the room at the guests, I notice small details. A young woman with red lipstick in the corner shares top-shelf drinks with a white-haired man. A double date in the VIP room turns into a partner-sharing make-out fest. A loud group of well-dressed people knock over their third wine glass and erupt in laughter. The drunk man near the bar falls over with his seat tumbling on top of him as he struggles to save his beer.

The Little Woody, a speakeasy located in Phoenix, Arizona.The Little Woody / Facebook

The dark ambiance and comfortable seating of a speakeasy bar create feelings of secrecy and freedom, and mixing this with alcohol is a perfect recipe for an interesting experience, especially for those that work there.

"Working at a speakeasy is fun because it gives patrons an experience that can't be replicated at just any bar or restaurant," says Sydney Alberda, hostess at the new speakeasy-themed bar, The White Rabbit in Gilbert, Arizona.

The White Rabbit is known for its classically styled space, artful cocktails and delectable side dishes. It's more upscale than other existing speakeasy bars in the region, and the first of its kind in the developing town.

"The most exciting part about The White Rabbit Bar is introducing the town of Gilbert to our passion for craft cocktails," says Sara Medina, co-owner of the bar.

The chandeliers and low lighting create a classic 1920s vibe. Photo by Amanda Marvin

"We really wanted to capture the experience of a large city cocktail lounge and open it in our hometown. Not only did we want amazing drinks, but also wanted to create an unforgettable environment that would capture the look and feel of a true Prohibition-era lounge," Medina continues.

"There's a theme and an aura in that place that makes people feel differently than when they go to other places," says Sydney, 19.

Even though the events that happen underground are extravagant and unexpected, it's what makes speakeasies worth going to. The experience is guaranteed to be unlike any other.

For more information on The White Rabbit, visit https://www.twr.bar/

Other speakeasies in Phoenix and the surrounding area include:

https://www.honoraz.com/

https://www.facebook.com/thelittlewoody

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

44480
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

28003
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

952740
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

153260
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments