There’s no shortage of bars in the Valley of the Sun. Sometimes, however, it can be a pain to fight through crowded lines and busy happy hours.

That’s where speakeasies come into play. Speakeasies have the good vibes and tasty drinks of a neighborhood bar and the exclusivity of a 5-star restaurant.

Do you want to hear a secret? Read on to learn more about these hidden hotspots. Just don’t tell your friends.

The Mystery Room

The Mystery Room has been the Valley’s best-kept secret since the roaring 20’s. This prohibition era bar opened back in 1929. Located in the basement of the Arizona Biltmore, this upscale speakeasy was once an invite-only establishment for the Phoenix elite. It’s the kind of place you can envision politicians smoking cigars, sipping whiskey, and slinging deals. Today, it still maintains its exclusive and classic vibe. It’s only open on Sunday nights from 8pm-11pm.

#FrayLife Tip: You’ll need a password in order to be granted entry into The Mystery Room. Don’t worry – a quick deep dive on social media should help you find the magic words.

The Little Woody

On the surface, The Little Woody looks like any other bar. It’s filled with all the classic elements of a neighborhood hangout, from the foosball table to the craft beer and local musicians. The only difference? You have to find it. The Little Woody is a longstanding Arcadia speakeasy that’s more millennial-happy hour than roaring-20’s. Come for the vibe and stay for the whiskey. They have nearly 100 different whiskeys on their drink menu. The Little Woody is open from 4pm-2am every day.

#FrayLife Tip: Trouble finding The Little Woody? The neon owl sign will lead you to this underground bar.

Honor Amongst Thieves

Honor Amongst Thieves has all the staples of a prohibition era speakeasy: boozy cocktails, dim lights, and stained glass mirrors. It’s also challenging to find this downtown Phoenix bar. Located behind Stock & Stable, you’ll have to locate the right staircase to gain entry. Once inside, you’ll find plenty of wine, whiskey, and old school decor. Pick your favorite drink or ask the bartender for one of their handcrafted concoctions. Honor Amongst Thieves is open from 6pm-12am Sunday-Thursday and 6pm-2am Friday-Saturday.

#FrayLife Tip: Honor Amongst Thieves’ signature drinks are all named after iconic American authors. Don’t forget to ask about the F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway or Hunter S. Thompson.

The Rokerij

You might not expect to find a place like The Rokerij in central Phoenix. This European-style restaurant serves up tasty steaks and seafood in a stone building. Rokerij (or “smokehouse” in Dutch) may be known for its food, but you won’t want to miss a post-dinner beverage. You’ll have to follow a stone-covered staircase to a hidden cellar to gain entry. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by a cozy atmosphere and unique cocktails. The Rokerij bar is open from 4pm-1am seven days a week.

The Ostrich

You can take a trip to the early 20th century with a visit to The Ostrich. This Chandler speakeasy was once a bustling hotspot underneath the San Marcos hotel. It’s origins date all the way back to 1912 and much of its decor is made up of historic items. Today, The Ostrich sits underneath Crust restaurant. Follow the red lights to find this vintage bar. The Ostrich is Monday-Sunday starting at 6pm.

Did your favorite speakeasy make the list? If not, let us know your favorite spot to drink in secret!

Looking for a sweet treat after some drinks? Hit up one of these awesome phx ice cream spots.

View More Articles By John Kuells

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