DC gets a lot of hype for secret bars, but Northern Virginia has a lot of hidden gems as well to sip expensive craft cocktails.

What’s a Speakeasy?

A speakeasy originally referred to an underground bar popular during the time of Prohibition. The bars were hidden because alcohol sales were illegal. Of course, alcohol is very legal these days, but people love a secret. These days, speakeasies are bars that don’t have obvious entryways, and are typically, small, dark, and secluded. It’s basically the opposite of a sports bar.

Best Speakeasies in Northern Virginia

1986 - The Whiskey Bar, Alexandria

Located in the back bar of Union Public House

Captain Gregory’s, Alexandria

Seasonal cocktails secretly behind the Sugar Shack Donuts shop.

King’s Ransom, Alexandria

Located above The Handover By The Slice, try out any of their signature highball cocktails.

Baba, Arlington

Located in the basement of popular Balkan Restaurant, Ambar, Baba offers craft cocktails and late night bites.

Salt, Arlington

Located in a secret door below Open Road, this moody bar offers excellent cocktails, mocktails, and food. Try I’m The Captain Now if you’re feeling adventurous.

Sparrow Room, Arlington

Located behind a screen in Bun’d Up in Pentagon Row, this bar is beautifully ornate and serves cocktails with Asian flavors and dim sum.

Ms. Peacock’s Champagne Lounge, Arlington

Located in the rear of the Board Room, this lavishly decorated bar is perfect for a girls’ night out.

Tarbender’s Lounge, Leesburg

Go through the phone booth at Benders Brooklyn Bites and be transported to a Prohibitian-era speakeasy complete with casked cocktails.

Conclusion- Best speakeasies in Northern Virginia

So if you’re looking to be transported to a different era and area than what meets the eye, try one of these local speakeasies for a toast.