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Pouring the Gran Centenario tequila drinks.

Featured Article

The Social Speakeasy

An Upscale Bar Specializing in Craft Cocktails

Article by Margie Taylor

Photography by Shannon Matlock, Go Arrow Photography

Originally published in Conroe City Lifestyle

The Social is a small local, family owned and operated business with four owners- Cassandra Bhogal, husband Tanvir Bhogal, mom, Natali Holbrook and her husband, Robert (Rob) Holbrook. 

Ten years ago, Rob started an alcohol catering company, Southern Rum Runners. As a mobile bartending service, it offered a bar for private parties. The company has gone through ownership changes and is now Rum Runners and Bar 1901.

The warehouse stored the inventory with a small lobby/office to host bar tastings for booked couples. Rob and Natali decided the lobby needed a remodel and decided a 1920's speakeasy style theme would fit perfectly in the space. Rob and Tanvir started the remodel. During this time, Natali and Rob traveled to California and visited an underground speakeasy for inspiration.

When they got home they decided to open on Friday and Saturday nights as a speakeasy. The doors officially opened April 1st, 2022, holding a maximum of 30 guests, and immediately stayed at full capacity. In January 2023, they decided to move to a larger space. They added a kitchen, offered food, and expanded the liquor options. Two months later, they started the expansion with the reopening on August 24th, 2023, to a huge crowd!

Today The Social is an upscale speakeasy bar specializing in craft cocktails. All the simple syrups are made in house and they freshly squeeze all the juices with ingredients adapting to whatever is in season. A dress code is strictly enforced. 1920s attire is highly encouraged.

The Social helps attendees go back in time leaving inhibitions at the door. Thursday night and Sunday brunch are casual but lake attire, ball caps, athletic wear or flip flops is always unacceptable. The Social is open to the public Thursday through Sunday, with ticketed events on Wednesday nights.

They host tequila tastings where guests taste the entire Gran Centenario line with a paired dinner. Every year they host a Halloween party with a DJ. Events showcasing local live musicians will be coming soon. Space is available for any private parties.