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Speakeasies for date spots

A quiet corner behind an unmarked door is exactly what tonight calls for. It is time to disappear into a conversation that feels like a secret.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Nine Bar image 1
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Cocktail bar

Speakeasy-style cocktail bar with a hidden entrance and vaporwave aesthetic creates a unique, intimate setting. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, driven by a live DJ booth and upbeat music. Comfortable seating invites guests to relax while enjoying creative, Asian-inspired cocktails.

Lowkey and hidden, this speakeasy features a vapor-wave aesthetic and a busy Friday night vibe. It offers delicious cocktails and tasty food in a unique lounge setting.

Speakeasy vibe creates a cozy, intimate setting ideal for dates. Comfortable couches and good music set a relaxed mood, while great drinks add to the experience.

People are saying

"I thought the cocktails were amazing and unique."

"You have to try the unique cocktails at this speakeasy."

"The cocktails here are unique, balanced, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Getting there early is necessary to grab a seat at Nine Bar.

2

Parking at Chinatown Parking costs $2 for nearby businesses that validate.

3

Nine Bar does not validate parking.

02
Sushi by Bou- Fulton Market Chicago @ Emily Hotel image 1

Small, intimate restaurant with 12 seats and a speakeasy vibe featuring 90s hip hop music and graffiti art. Atmosphere feels lively yet personal, enhanced by craft cocktails and attentive service. Known for high-quality sushi and an engaging omakase experience.

Cozy and intimate settings create a speakeasy-style vibe with unique omakase experiences. Music and atmosphere add to the fun, entertaining mood.

Small, intimate rooms create a cozy vibe for date nights. Staff provide accommodations for accessibility, and the 17-course omakase offers a special dining experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food service was so personal and professional, it made the evening special."

"The staff here makes your Date Spots feel extra special."

"It's got this fun, unique speakeasy vibe with hip hop music."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating.

2

Karaoke sessions are available during visits.

3

The omakase experience costs $65 for 12 pieces of sushi.

03
Sushi Suite 202 - Lincoln Park Chicago by Sushi by Bou image 1

Dining unfolds in a converted hotel suite with intimate counter seating and a speakeasy vibe. The atmosphere feels exclusive and romantic, suited for special occasions with just six seats offering a unique omakase experience. A small lounge invites lingering over drinks and vinyl records after the meal.

Intimate setting with a strong speakeasy vibe creates a cool, exciting atmosphere. Cocktails and nigiri presentation add to the overall experience.

Offers an intimate setting ideal for celebrating anniversaries and birthdays. Features a Homekase experience and a date night package that creates a special, inclusive atmosphere for couples.

People are saying

"It's a unique, intimate spot, like a secret clubhouse inside a hotel."

"The sushi here is incredible, perfect for a date spot."

"The speakeasy atmosphere made the space feel really cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required well in advance due to limited seating for six guests.

2

The omakase experience features a 17-course meal prepared by the chef.

3

Expect to pay around $385 for two people for the full experience.

04
Butcher and the Bear image 1

Steakhouse offers a dark intimate atmosphere with sophisticated, elegant vibe and beautiful decor. Live singer performances add to the swanky bar area ambiance. High-quality steaks and expertly crafted cocktails define the experience.

Lighting stays dim but readable, creating a sultry and upscale vibe. The atmosphere channels a modern speakeasy steakhouse with a swanky, classic feel.

Offers a romantic atmosphere ideal for celebrating special occasions like anniversaries. Serves excellent dinner options that make date nights memorable and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The steak here is cooked perfectly and full of flavor."

"The food at these Date Spots is outstanding and full of flavor."

"The Wagyu here is incredible; it melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-20 minute wait for a table on Saturday nights.

2

Happy Hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers; don't miss it.

3

The 'Girl Dinner' special on Sundays includes two martinis and caviar fries for $29.

05
Inkwell image 1

Bar with intimate setting and old school decor featuring bookshelves and vinyl music creates a low-key, welcoming vibe. Small tables suit quiet conversations, making it ideal for dates or casual meetups. Cocktails are thoughtfully crafted, complementing the relaxed atmosphere.

Romantic and intimate ambiance sets a speakeasy-like vibe ideal for date nights. The space feels quaint and welcoming, making it great for cocktails or quiet conversation.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails to be beautifully crafted and delicious."

"You'll love the creative, expertly mixed cocktails for date night."

"It's got this moody speakeasy vibe with specific lighting and decor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $12 old fashioneds and runs from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Inkwell tests out new cocktails every weekend, providing a fresh experience.

3

Drink prices range from $15-20, with food priced similarly.

06
Bernardโ€™s image 1
Cocktail bar

Cozy cocktail lounge with speakeasy vibes and tasteful decor offers a romantic atmosphere and excellent cocktails. Music ranges from a great lounge playlist to occasionally loud, affecting conversation. Frequented for tranquil, refined drinking and date night rendezvous.

Cozy lounge with speakeasy vibes and refined cocktail offerings. The ambience feels prestigious and well lit, though the vibe is not typical for a speakeasy.

Quiet atmosphere creates a perfect ambiance for dates. The spot offers a speakeasy vibe that suits intimate evenings well. Staff consistently check on reservations for couples.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"It's a cozy cocktail lounge with speakeasy vibes and creative drinks."

"It's a great spot for a date because it's not too loud."

Good to know

1

Reservations are suggested, but same-day tables are often available online.

2

Valet parking is available for guests visiting the bar.

3

Most cocktails range from $20 to $30 each.

07
CERDITO MUERTO image 1
Mexican restaurant

Dark, narrow speakeasy with a long bar and intimate, cozy atmosphere filled with cultural art and decor. Vibe blends laid-back warmth with moments of loud energy, making it suitable for romantic dinners or fun nights out. Frequented by those seeking unique cocktails and authentic Mexican flavors in a hidden gem setting.

Vibrant speakeasy-style vibe defines the atmosphere here. The space feels authentic and lively, capturing the essence of a classic speakeasy.

Amazing vibes create a great atmosphere for date nights. Spending around $220 for two includes a couple of drinks, making it a solid spot for a night out.

People are saying

"The potato tacos were very tasty with a homemade flavor."

"The ambiance here is amazing for date spots."

"The Speakeasy's food was fire and packed with authentic Mexican flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect a wait of about 30 minutes for walk-ins during peak hours.

3

Dinner for two typically costs around $220, including drinks.

08
Sushi by Scratch Restaurants: Chicago image 1

Hidden behind a secret coded door in a speakeasy setting, the space offers an intimate dining bar where guests interact closely with chefs. The atmosphere blends moody, cozy vibes with bursts of energetic engagement, creating a unique omakase experience. Seating is limited to small groups, enhancing the personal and exclusive feel.

Hidden in an old, haunted basement, the speakeasy offers a spectacular setting with a secret entrance and a cozy drinks area. The dining bar and lively atmosphere add to the unique experience.

Celebrations like anniversaries and birthdays happen here, making it a spot for special moments. The setting suits couples looking for a quiet, intimate vibe with fresh sushi options.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is a carefully crafted omakase journey."

"The chefs' passion for their craft truly elevated the whole Speakeasy experience."

"The chefs here are so fun and passionate about their craft."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to access the restaurant, with a code sent after booking.

2

Expect to pay around $200 per person, including tips, for the omakase experience.

3

The restaurant has a speakeasy entrance through a black door with a numbered lock.

09
The Franklin Room image 1
New American restaurant

Underground space with rich fabrics, leathers, and carved woodwork creates a high-end speakeasy atmosphere. The vibe is cozy and intimate, with music at a level that allows easy conversation. A specialty whiskey selection and unique cocktails attract those seeking a refined drinking experience.

An underground speakeasy atmosphere sets a cozy and moody tone here. Lighting stays modern but not too dark, making the menu easy to read.

Splurging feels easy here with the pleasantly surprising check. The whipped formaggio stands out as a dish that impresses on any date, from first to anniversary celebrations.

People are saying

"The Date Spots here have amazing cocktails and flavorful dishes."

"I found their whiskey selection to be extensive and impressive."

"It's got this cozy speakeasy atmosphere with rich fabrics and low lighting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-60 minutes during peak dining hours.

3

The bread basket costs $15 and is not listed on the menu.

10
The Alderman image 1
Cocktail bar

Speakeasy-style bar with dimly lit chandeliers and a cozy, intimate space for about a dozen people. Atmosphere stays low-key and elegant with a mix of R&B and soul music, creating a chill vibe suited for conversation. Craft cocktails stand out as the main focus, with a secret entrance adding to the exclusive feel.

A hidden spot with a secret entrance offers a cozy and quiet atmosphere. The vibe stays chill and fun, perfect for craft cocktails in a beautiful setting.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and delicious."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"The drinks here are creative, delicious, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are strongly suggested because itโ€™s a small spot.

2

You get a 1.5-hour slot for reservations.

3

There is no food available, only cocktails.

11
Class Act image 1
Restaurant

Communal table seats up to 16 with an open kitchen where chefs prepare inventive dishes inspired by personal stories. Atmosphere blends elegant warmth with a close-knit, family dinner vibe, encouraging conversation among diners. Attached speakeasy offers advanced mixology for a refined post-dinner experience.

Night Cap offers a high level of detail and advanced mixology in its speakeasy experience. The pho cocktail stands out as a unique after-dinner drink in the intimate speakeasy setting.

Celebrations like birthdays create a fantastic atmosphere here. The spot works well for couples looking to enjoy a special night out.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are inventive and paired phenomenally with the dishes."

"The tasting menu here is creative, with the chef sharing stories behind each dish."

"The inventive Date Spots dishes and inspired pairings play with flavor chemistry."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating, with only 12 guests per seating.

2

The tasting menu is fixed with no pre-check available for dishes.

3

Expect the dining experience to last a couple of hours with multiple courses.

12
Sparrow image 1
Cocktail bar

Tiny cocktail bar with low lighting and art-deco charm creates an inviting, intimate space. Background Latin music sets a chill atmosphere suited for quiet conversation. Skilled bartenders craft high-quality cocktails with care, especially rum-based drinks.

Cozy and intimate with a Havana style art deco look, this spot offers a chill, rum-focused vibe. The atmosphere feels like a classic speakeasy with a cool, relaxed energy.

Warm, welcoming, and beautifully curated space sets a relaxed tone for date nights. Cocktails like the La Floridita come out smooth and well-crafted, matching the laid back vibes.

People are saying

"The cocktails were amazing, crafted with intention."

"The cocktails here are thoughtfully crafted and delicious."

"It's a really cozy, chill speakeasy with a cool vibe."

Good to know

1

On Monday nights, they pick one expensive rum to pour at half price.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

3

Expect a 10-15 minute wait time for a table during peak hours.

13
Pour Decisions Chicago image 1

Live jazz music fills the space with top-tier performances while multiple large TVs broadcast sports loudly, creating a conflicted atmosphere. Upstairs offers a speakeasy vibe with a pool table, piano, and private party rooms featuring stylish decor and a full bar. The crowd enjoys specialty cocktails and highly praised wings, blending lively energy with casual comfort.

Upstairs offers a modern day speakeasy vibe with a hidden, intimate feel. The space impresses with its secretive layout and classic cocktail focus.

A chill vibe suits date nights with live music and game watching options. It works well for hanging out but may not fit all date expectations.

People are saying

"The bar staff here really make sure you're taken care of."

"This speakeasy is a cool spot with great music and vibes."

"It's a great spot for a date with a great vibe."

Good to know

1

Wednesdays feature $20 all-you-can-eat wings, a popular deal.

2

Thursdays offer an $8 burger with fries and $5 domestic drafts.

3

Trivia night happens every Wednesday, adding to the midweek fun.

14
Osito's Tap image 1

Former speakeasy with hidden entrance through a liquor store offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with dark, moody decor and live mariachi music. The space feels unpretentious and creative, attracting those who appreciate Mexican art and culture. Conversations can be lively, sometimes making it hard to hear servers, but the vibe remains welcoming and relaxed.

Entrance through the back of a liquor store sets a hidden vibe. Inside, it channels late 70s Little Italy with a mix of Mexican art and culture.

A relaxed spot with a vibe suited for special dates and casual nights out. Walking distance access makes it easy for a quick, enjoyable evening.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really delicious."

"The cocktails here are amazing and expertly balanced."

"It's a unique speakeasy with MX art and culture."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Expect a casual dress code; no formal attire needed.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred for tips.

15
Trino Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Cozy blend of industrial and mid-century modern speakeasy styles with exposed brick, murals, and velvety colors creates a romantic, intimate atmosphere. Soft classic salsa and bachata music sets a warm, inviting vibe. Creative space design and curated cocktail offerings distinguish it from typical steakhouses.

A cozy setting creates a speakeasy vibe with a curated tasting journey called Los Pasajes Omakase. Drinks stand out as top notch, blending creativity with a hidden bar feel.

Romantic ambiance sets the tone with tasting-sized bubbly to start. Service from Travis and Norma stands out, making it ideal for a date night.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the steaks cooked to perfection."

"The Date Spots here have amazing flavors and a great dining experience."

"I thought the food at Speakeasy was excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted appetizers and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially weekends.

3

Trino Steakhouse is closed on Mondays but available for private events.

16
Revolver image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with speakeasy vibes and a gorgeous interior offers an intimate patio between buildings. Energetic atmosphere features live DJs playing jazz and fun music. Drinks include expertly crafted cocktails like old fashioneds and signature gin mixes.

Cozy retro style creates a speakeasy vibe that feels like a hidden spot off the street. Drinks match the atmosphere with awesome quality and the overall mood stays fun and inviting.

Cocktails like the old fashioned stand out here, crafted with care. The spot suits weekday date nights and small group gatherings with a cozy vibe.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so welcoming and make amazing drinks."

"I love the creative cocktails and great music during Happy Hour."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5:00 to 6:30 PM with $6 drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

3

Expect a 20% service charge added to your bill.

17
Everything Bar image 1

Two-level bar with an outdoor patio offers distinct atmospheres: a lively main floor with sports screens and a hidden speakeasy downstairs featuring high-energy music and dancing. DJs keep the vibe fresh and in tune with the crowd, which gathers for games and nightlife. Food includes juicy burgers and crispy wings, complementing the energetic setting.

A hidden speakeasy sits in the basement with great music and a distinct vibe. It feels like a separate spot within the venue, offering a unique experience alongside arcade games and karaoke.

People are saying

"The food here was phenomenal and served quickly."

"The food and drinks at this Speakeasy are amazing."

"The staff here are amazing and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7 PM with $8 burgers and $5 drafts.

2

The Emo Christmas event includes a guaranteed 90-minute reservation and a complimentary drink.

3

The venue can get crowded, especially during popular events.

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