We’re a solid 100 years out from the time speakeasies flourished in the Prohibition era of the 1920s — but the more things change, the more they stay the same. Today, speakeasy-style bars — like these 6 in Fort Worth — act as a nod to the past. Except this time, it’s totally legal.
Thompson’s Bookstore | 900 Houston St.
The newly renovated downtown speakeasy was one of the first in town + looks no different than a boutique bookstore from the outside. When you walk in, you’re met with a classy bar, a bookshelf, leather couches, and drinks you can only dream of.
Pro tip: There’s a secret bar behind a bookshelf — but you’ll need to keep up with its Facebook page for daily hints about the password to get in.
The Library Bar | 611 Houston St.
This one is for the bookworms. Grab a signature cocktail and kick back with your favorite book at this downtown speakeasy-esque bar. There are also flat-screen TVs to catch your favorite sports teams and some pool tables.
The Amber Room | 334 Bryan Ave.
Tucked away inside Wishbone & Flynt you’ll find this hidden gem filled with Moroccan and Old English stylings. You can access the cocktail lounge through a large gold door with 20+ knobs near the restaurant bar or through an unmarked wooden door on Bryan Avenue.
Bodega | 2921 Morton St.
The Cultural District bar is hidden inside a small grocery store that features basic staples like snacks, beverages + toiletries. The bar is hidden behind a freezer door and features live music, craft cocktails, a dance floor + two pool tables.
Ampersand | 3009 Bledsoe St.
The coffee shop has two locations, but the one on Crockett Row doubles as a cocktail bar at night. The minimalistic room features a large bar + coffee-infused cocktails. Despite the casual coffee shop setting, this bar is known for its lively scene, flashing lights, and dance music.
Visit the fortune teller at Curfew Bar to get inside this speakeasy. | Photo by @brett_dfw
Curfew Bar | 350 W. 5th St.
You’ll find this bar in the heart of downtown at the base of The Tower. Before you walk in, you’re met by the mechanical fortune teller, Zoltar. Once inside, you’ll find a ceiling filled with disco balls, signature drinks like the Painkiller (Jamaican pot rum, coconut cream, orange juice, pineapple, nutmeg + mint), and neon signs.
Headed to any of these local spots? Share your photos + favorite speakeasy cocktails with us by tagging #FTWtoday.
