The days of prohibition are long gone, but modern-day speakeasies have become a staple in the Albuquerque bar and restaurant scene. Each speakeasy has kept to the historic allure of secrecy and exclusivity. You won’t see any flashy signs displaying the business’s names, which then requires you to put in some effort to figure out how to gain access to each establishment. Once you locate these speakeasies, you’ll be met with comforting environments behind each of their ostentatious entrances. However, each has established their own style giving guests a unique experience they won’t find elsewhere.
The most well-known and true to theme Prohibition Era speakeasy is Vernon’s located in the Village of Los Ranchos. You’re required to make reservations and from there, you’ll be given a password and instructions on how to enter. Upon entering an unmarked door, you’ll be greeted by a doorman who looks like he was plucked directly from a 1920s mobster film. Once seated, you can enjoy mouth-watering steak while sipping on classic cocktails.
If you’re in downtown Albuquerque, you can find Founders Speakeasy under a liquor store. You’ll be required to provide a password before being led through a freezer door and down a narrow staircase that leads to a small, dim-lit, cozy bar. Founders is known for its unique infusions such as their Banana Bread Old Fashioned and Green Chile Enchilada Tequila. When asked about their unique atmosphere, Founders manager Brandon, said that their goal is to tell stories through their cocktails, while creating an environment that feels inclusive, not exclusive, a space where people feel like it’s their getaway with people they can trust.
In the heart of Nob Hill, there’s a bakery tucked down an alley that doubles as the entrance to Teddy Roe’s, a Chicago-themed speakeasy. As you’re led through a hidden doorway, you’ll step foot into a quaint bar where guests are surrounded by dark walls and gold accent décor and furniture. The Teddy Roe’s crew prides themselves on their hands-on crafting experience which enables them to provide their customers with delicious classic cocktails, house libations, and food. Arcy, a partner at Teddy Roe’s, explained that they want to create an intimate environment where they can get to know customers, ultimately creating meaningful friendships.
You may have passed by the Z Lounge in Nob Hill without realizing that it exists. To gain access to this retro-themed speakeasy, guests need to tap on a banana statue located in the Hotel Zazz lobby. From there, a hidden door will open allowing you entry into the bar. Once inside, you’ll be surrounded by uniquely thrifted furniture and art from local artists, which all lend to the casual environment that the Z Lounge aims to create. Sherri, Z Lounge’s manager, said the team strives to “create a safe space where people can come and be whoever they are.”
Albuquerque’s newest speakeasy, Fat Frank’s, can be found down a Nob Hill alley. Owner Matthew Bernabe has made his speakeasy more charitable-driven. When making a reservation, you’re scheduling a “delivery” to drop off a donation for a local nonprofit. Once the “delivery” is made, you’re led past the kitchen, down a hallway, and through blue velvet curtains where you’ll be met with funky 70s-inspired music, furniture, and décor. Expect a cocktail menu filled with fun and innovative ingredients such as mozzarella-infused vodka or cantaloupe syrup. Upon picking your drink, you’ll choose a hot dog to pair best with your drink.
While speakeasies may have first popped up during the Prohibition Era to circumvent alcohol laws, the alluring concepts are thriving in Albuquerque. These hidden in plain sight local businesses offer their customers a refuge from the outside world, a place where they can go and feel like it’s their home away from home, a place where they can find a unique experience, thoughtfully crafted cocktails, delicious food, and top-tier customer service.