01-08-2025
How To Access The World's Most Alluring Secret Bars in Hotels
There's something irresistible about a well-kept secret—especially when it involves great cocktails, impeccable ambiance, and just the right amount of mystery. And let's be clear, the new buzz word is secret bars, not speakeasy. (As a cocktail writer for two decades, we're in the era of speakeasy fatigue, so please don't utter that 's' word.)
But secret bars as the spin-it-to-win-it phrase? Heck, yes. Hidden behind velvet curtains, tucked behind bookshelves, in random hotel rooms or only accessible by boat, these hotel hidden bars redefine what it means to drink in exclusive style. Here's where to find them, how to get in, and what to expect once you're inside.
Epilogue – Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, FL
How to access: Located within the adults-only section of the resort, Epilogue is open to resort guests and select visitors. Reserve online on the hotel's site. What to expect: A sophisticated library-meets-Art Deco setting with a literary theme, a cocktail menu inspired by Florida's stories, and high-end mixology led by Jaclyn Keogh.
NAVI – The Post Oak Hotel, Houston, TX
How to access: By advance reservation only via the hotel's concierge. Guests are led behind a velvet curtain and through a hidden bookcase into the NAVI lounge inside Post Oak Hotel, the only Forbes Five-Star hotel in $125 per guest (includes five bespoke clarified cocktails, five paired small bites, and a take-home gift).Limited-time: Available through August only.
La Isla Secreta – Rosewood Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Mexico
How to access: Open exclusively to resort guests, La Isla Secreta is located on a private island tucked deep within the lush waterways of Rosewood Mayakoba. Access is strictly by boat transfer from Zapote Bar, the resort's award-winning cocktail destination. You'll need to book in advance through the concierge—seating is extremely limited, and the exact location remains intentionally under No entry fee, but premium cocktail pricing to expect: A tropical bohemian hideaway with a focus on rare Mexican spirits. It's discreet, transportive, and made for those who love a well-crafted drink with a healthy dose of intrigue.
La Botica – Las Ventanas al Paraíso, a Rosewood Resort, Los Cabos, Mexico
How to access: Guests of the resort can reserve Las Ventanas al Paraiso's The Pharmacy (La Botica in Spanish) through the concierge. Space is limited, and walk-ins are unlikely.
Fee: 1,600 pesos or roughly $85 usd. What to expect: Cuban speakeasy meets vintage apothecary with live music and a cocktail program built for performance and panache.
Canes & Tales – Waldorf Astoria Osaka, Japan
How to access: Tucked inside the Waldorf Astoria Osaka, the Canes & Tales bar is open to guests and visitors; reservations recommended, especially for to expect: A moody, jazz-inspired space with menus built around literary tales. No password needed—just come ready to sip slowly and soak in the story.
Room Nine01 – Hyatt Centric Las Olas, Fort Lauderdale, FL
How to Access: Reserve Room Nine01 through the Hyatt's booking system. Once confirmed, you'll receive a password via text to share at check-in. Then, you'll be handed an unmarked room to Expect: Inside, a corner guest room has been transformed into a swanky 1920s–inspired speakeasy—with retro lamps, vintage artwork, and intimate seating for no more than a dozen people. It's small, exclusive, and perfect for connecting with friends without the noise of a normal Vibe: Think Prohibition glamour meets residential cocktail lounge—cozy, nostalgic, and surprisingly quiet for a hotel.
Mile High Cocktail Club – Four Seasons Chicago, IL
How to Access: Begin your night at the hotel's ground-floor Adorn Bar. You'll be offered champagne before you're escorted up a private elevator to their 46th-floor corner suite—the Mile High Cocktail Club (no relation to the in-flight mile high club). Reservations are recommended, though walk-ins may be accommodated if space to Expect: Stunning city views, plush furnishings, and a refined cocktail experience. It's a lounge hidden in plain sight, ideal for those who want exclusivity without Vibe: Elevated both literally and metaphorically—this venue perfectly balances Chicago skyline drama with cocktail craftsmanship.
Iron Door – Holbrooke Hotel, Grass Valley, CA
How to access: Hidden in the basement of the historic Holbrooke Hotel. Open to the public—no password to expect: Stone walls, soft amber light, local live music, and a cocktail program with a bold boilermaker twist. Drop in or call ahead on weekends.
So & So's – Romer Hotel, Hell's Kitchen, NYC
How to access: Look for the discreet blue door inside the Romer Hotel lobby. Open to the public; no password to expect: A casual-cool vibe with a hi-low food and cocktail menu, plus regular live music events under the 'Somebody at So & So's' banner. First-come, first-served, so arrive early on show nights.
More hidden hotel bars to check out:
