‘Speakeasy’ bars in N.J. that will transport you back in time (2024)

With one step through a hidden passageway, another era springs back to life across the state. Prohibition may be a thing of the past, but the old-school experience still can be found — you just need to know where to look. These classic speakeasies are worth checking out.

1933 Room

Tucked away as Somerville’s best-kept secret, the 1933 Room is an artfully decorated private venue that sits on the second floor of Verve Restaurant. As the name suggests, 1993 Room honors the historical significance of the time: During that year, the United States implemented the 21st Amendment, which ended Prohibition — now that’s something worth ‘cheers’-ing to.

Today, the 1933 Room is a hidden getaway for couples and small parties who want best-in-class spirits and craft co*cktails as well as quality wine and an eclectic slate of beers. But you’ve got to know about it to get there; second floor areas are not as intuitive as the first floor.

The space’s exposed brick walls and corner bar create an authentic back-in-the-day New York feel. The lighting is dimmed, the walls are adorned with area art, jazz music fills the air and bartenders clink their utensils late at night while mixing drinks as the crowd gathers.

Address: 18 East Main St., Somerville, N.J. 08876

The Junto: Attic Bar

While Jersey City is known for its Manhattan-esque vibe, there are some places you’ll have to hear about through the grapevine as opposed to your social feed. The Junto: Attic Bar is only accessible via a narrow flight of stairs in the Franklin Social. Above the unassuming tavern lies a teleport to a bygone era, adorned with all the speakeasy staples: candle-lit tables, velvet seating and a co*cktail menu primarily inspired by each of the 12 original founding members of the lounge.

The stunning ambiance speaks volumes — with vintage stained glass behind the bar, a cackling fireplace, smart dark wood features, and the sounds of Ella Fitzgerald filling the room — so much so that you would think you were sitting in the lair of sophistication.

The mixologists here take their craft seriously, doling out expert pours and offering up surprisingly accurate recommendations, aka “Dealer’s Choice.” Based on the mood or spirit you’re interested in, the staff will shake, stir or swizzle a unique co*cktail of your choosing. (The bartenders may know more about your tastes than you do!)

Address: 68 Mercer St., Jersey City, N.J. 07302

Murphy’s Tavern

Murphy’s Tavern has been serving alcohol since 1919. Shortly after Prohibition was enacted, booze and beer started passing (on the down-low) in the same basem*nt it operates out of today in residential Rumson.

The basem*nt bar holds considerable charm, acting as an intimate space for locals to drink and socialize. Many say this place takes them back in time, noting the black and white-tiled floors and use of wooden beer barrels as tables. And the drinks are reminiscent of the classics: from sidecars and Manhattans to a single malt scotch or whiskey neat, you can expect strong, high-end co*cktails from the skilled bartenders. Guests can also play familiar games, like darts and shuffleboard, or turn up the tunes on the antique jukebox. (Don’t worry, its modernized and accepts dollar bills.)

Address: 17 Ward Lane, Rumson, N.J. 07760

Laundromat

While walking down Dehart Street in Morristown, you probably wouldn’t look twice at the white shutters etched in brick exterior. And why would you? Through the glass doors are nothing but front-loader washers and dryers lining the walls. Caution: You cannot wash your clothes here.

Laundromat is the physical definition of “don’t judge a book by its cover.” At the end of the hall, you open two laundry machine doors that reveal a grand staircase leading to a spacious brick-walled, den-like venue with dark leather couches and multiple fireplaces.

On a typical Saturday night, the focus is on live music — a band is playing on stage, people are dancing and mingling, there’s a smell of smoked co*cktails in the air. (The Smoked Apple Old Fashioned is a crowd favorite!) Behind the bar, things are just as lively, where casually dressed bartenders make carefully constructed drinks from unique recipes using fresh seasonal fruit and herbs, homemade simple syrups and upscale garnishes.

Address: 4 Dehart St., Morristown, N.J. 07960

The Rab⋅bit Hole

If “Alice in Wonderland” has taught us anything, it’s that some of the most incredible adventures can be found down the rabbit hole. That is why The Rab⋅bit Hole is a Wonderland-inspired speakeasy offering a surreal escape from reality, where people can “enjoy the beauty of conversation and unique liquid concoctions,” said Beverage Director Lou Narvaez.

The Rab⋅bit Hole, located in Blue Steel Pizza Co. in Bloomfield, is found through a secret door, where the place transforms from the scratch-kitchen pizza parlor into a colorful world teeming with curiosity and adventure.

House music thumps from inside The Rab⋅bit Hole all night long, adding to the euphoric trance, and expert bartenders create elevated drinks curated to taste. According to the Disney movie, the rabbit hole is the place where everything begins — find out what lies beyond!

Address: 285 Glenwood Ave., Bloomfield, N.J. 07003

Kendal Lambert is a freelance writer on a mission to scope out all the amazing things about the Garden State. From the best wineries to the most historic of landmarks, Lambert writes about how to live like a local in whichever town you visit.

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