San Francisco's Hidden Speakeasies

San Francisco's speakeasy scene in August 2025 offers a captivating blend of hidden entrances, password-protected doors, and immersive experiences that transport patrons back to the Prohibition era. These clandestine bars are not just about cocktails—they're about the thrill of discovery and the allure of secrecy. Here's a curated list highlighting what makes each venue uniquely "speakeasy": 

San Francisco's Hidden Speakeasies

1. Bourbon & Branch 

• Location: 501 Jones St, San Francisco 

• Why It's a Speakeasy: Entry requires a reservation and a secret password. The bar features multiple hidden rooms, including "The Library" and "Wilson & Wilson," each offering a distinct Prohibition-era ambiance.  

2. The Pawn Shop 

• Location: 993 Mission St, San Francisco 

• Why It's a Speakeasy: Disguised as a pawn shop, access is granted by picking up a gold phone outside and negotiating with the "pawn master." Inside awaits a tropical-themed tapas bar.

3. Cold Drinks Bar 

• Location: 644 Broadway, San Francisco 

• Why It's a Speakeasy: Hidden behind a discreet door marked with bats on the second floor of China Live, this scotch-centric bar exudes an old Shanghai jazz-era vibe.

4. Blind Pig Speakeasy Lounge 

• Location: 1113 Polk St, San Francisco 

• Why It's a Speakeasy: Entry requires a weekly password. The bar offers a unique experience with Asian-inspired cocktails served in whimsical pig-shaped glasses.

5. Marianne’s 

• Location: 360 Jessie St, San Francisco 

• Why It's a Speakeasy: Tucked behind a bookcase in The Cavalier restaurant, this intimate lounge channels vintage rock & roll vibes, inspired by Marianne Faithfull.

6. The Hideout at Dalva 

• Location: 3121 16th St, San Francisco 

• Why It's a Speakeasy: Located at the back of Dalva bar, The Hideout is accessed through a dimly lit hallway, leading to a cozy space known for its classic cocktails.  

7. Bar Nonnina 

• Location: 1240 9th Ave, San Francisco 

• Why It's a Speakeasy: Situated behind Fiorella's rooftop dining area, this intimate bar offers a three-course cocktail and food pairing experience in a space reminiscent of a dimly lit wine cellar.

8. C.1905 at The Barrel Room 

• Location: 415 Sansome St, San Francisco 

• Why It's a Speakeasy: Accessed via a hidden entrance behind The Barrel Room, this underground lounge is set in a former bank vault, complete with Victorian-era decor and themed rooms.

9. Lore 

• Location: 3065 16th St, San Francisco 

• Why It's a Speakeasy: Combining an escape room with a speakeasy, Lore offers an "Alice in Wonderland"-themed immersive experience, complete with interactive puzzles and themed cocktails.

10. The Linden Room 

• Location: 330 Gough St, San Francisco 

• Why It's a Speakeasy: Adjacent to Nightbird restaurant, this minimalist bar offers a curated selection of cocktails in an intimate setting, accessible through a discreet entrance.  

11. Smuggler’s Cove 

• Location: 650 Gough St, San Francisco 

• Why It's a Speakeasy: This tiki-themed bar immerses guests in a nautical paradise, offering an extensive selection of rum-based cocktails amidst pirate-inspired decor.  

12. Moongate Lounge 

• Location: 28 Waverly Pl, San Francisco 

• Why It's a Speakeasy: Located above Mister Jiu's in Chinatown, this stylish lounge offers a blend of classic and innovative cocktails in a chic setting, accessible via a hidden staircase.  

Each of these speakeasies offers a unique journey into the clandestine world of hidden bars, blending historical elements with modern mixology. Whether you're seeking a secret entrance, a password-protected door, or an immersive theatrical experience, San Francisco's speakeasy scene has something to intrigue every adventurous spirit.