It’s National Bootlegger’s Day. Here’s where you can get a speakeasy experience in Indy
Prohibition has been over for a long time, but there are Indy bars who offer the speakeasy experience. What better way to celebrate National Bootleggers Day?
Since 2015, National Bootlegger's Day is celebrated every year on Jan. 17 for a number of reasons, according to National Today. It marks the start of prohibition in the U.S., the distillation of Temple Rye whiskey and the birthday of infamous gangster Al Capone.
There is some definitive correlation between all three of these things.
"It was the onset of prohibition that prompted both Capone and farmers in Templeton, Iowa, to distill their own whiskey to sell," National Today reported. "This was how the famous Templeton Rye whiskey was born, and its popularity spread like wildfire during prohibition… so much so that it became Al Capone’s favorite whiskey."
On National Bootlegger’s Day, we can raise a glass for the daring bootleggers of prohibition who made the risky occupation seem more romantic.
If you're looking to celebrate locally, Indy has several bars that offer a speakeasy type of experience.
Bars that have speakeasy vibes
Bar One Fourteen
"Bar One Fourteen offers bespoke cocktails and elevated bar fare for parties of up to 16. Equipped with an elite audio system that features Klipsch Forte speakers, a vintage reel-to-reel tape player, and vinyl turntable, Bar One Fourteen provides guests an unparalleled listening experience in an environment like no other. 21+ only."
Address: 114 E. 49th St., Meridian Kessler
The Exchange
"The Exchange is a whiskey and craft cocktail bar stocked with hundreds of the best whiskeys from all over the world. We cultivate an upscale environment—without the airs or the dress code."
Address: 301 Mass. Ave.
Sundry & Vice
"Sundry and Vice is an award winning turn-of-the-century apothecary-themed cocktail bar and gathering place."
Address: 850 Mass. Ave.
Traditional speakeasy bars
For these next few places, they operate more like a traditional speakeasy so you'll have to do some searching. You have to find the location of the bar (many clues can be found online) and some of these bars may even require a password just like they did during prohibition, but that is all part of the fun.
The Bemburg
"The Bemberg is a private, members only club in downtown Indianapolis. A limited number of annual memberships are available for purchase. The club is a place to gather with friends or business acquaintances to have drinks and small bites. You'll find an upscale club with a variety of spirits, cocktails, wine and beer at The Bemberg."
Seating is limited and reservations are required.
Located downtown.
Bootleggers
This might be Indy's most secret speakeasy spot. It is recommended you stop by the restuarant above the speakeasy for a hint. The speakeasy is hidden behind a vault and you will need a password otherwise, what would be the point (Hint, hint).
Located downtown.
Commodore
Is self-dubbed a "modern speakeasy of Fountain Square." You have your best chance of finding it on Wednesday nights since that is when they have DJ nights from 9 p.m. to midnight.
Located in Fountain Square.
The Vault
"Welcome to The Vault Indy, where timeless elegance meets intrigue. Nestled in the heart of the Bates-Hendrick's neighborhood in Indianapolis, Indiana, we're not just a speakeasy; we're a journey back to the roaring 20s and 30s. Our establishment is a living tribute to an era when classic cocktails, fine bourbons, and delectable local food pairings reigned supreme."
As implied by the name, you'll need a four digit code to enter the speakeasy. A hint for the code: Check out their Instagram post from Jan. 3, 2024.
Located in Bates-Hendricks.
Verita
Verita is hidden inside Bocca, the Italian restaurant located at 122 E. 22nd St. in Fall Creek Place. While dining at restaurant, be sure to take a look around to find the hidden speakeasy.
Wiseguy Lounge
"Not in plain sight, but when found, you will experience calm low lighting, dark reclaimed wood, rich leather sofas, elite bourbons, craft cocktails, and knowledgeable well-dressed bartenders that can create any cocktail to satisfy your cravings."
You don't need a password for this one, you just have to figure out what business it is connected to. Hint: Think about the name "Wiseguy" and other names of businesses on Mass. Ave.
Located on Mass. Ave.
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Katie Wiseman is a trending and breaking news intern at IndyStar. Contact her at klwiseman@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @itskatiewiseman.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Raise your glass at these Indianapolis speakeasy bars
