Prohibition

Love glamour and Gatsby? Sneak over to the Gaslamp’s most exclusive speakeasy, Prohibition, for an evening of immersion into the world of F. Scott Fitzgerald and beyond. Located behind a covert entrance in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, this 1920s-themed nightclub is the perfect escape, whether you’re celebrating something special or simply shrugging off the weight of the workweek, and offers craft cocktails, live music, and an atmosphere of civility.

The enchanting nature of Prohibition is rooted in its exclusivity. The entrance is a need-to-know … and yes, you need to know. This intimate underground club hides behind a secret bar door; one might even consider asking Eddie O’Hare for directions, if found near his law office on 5th Avenue. Descend beyond the secret entrance into the sanctuary where the liquor flows at the hands of deft bartenders and the tunes spill from the talented band.

Once inside, navigate through the styled venue to grab a cocktail or two at the bar. Whether you’re in it for a gin mule (the NAHscow Mule is made with Bombay Sapphire, Aperol, lime, honey, and ginger beer), a selection from the top shelf old-fashioneds menu (they have an Elijah Craig 18 Year Bourbon that is deliciously complex and will have you toasting the so-named father of aged whiskey!), or one of their standards, you can be sure that the venue’s talented bartender will expend care toward showing you a good time.

Ask for a recommendation, and you might even have a chance to try the Kentucky Tippler (featuring Prohibition Single Barrel Bourbon, sarsaparilla bitters, and grapefruit zest), the Hotel Nacional (with Diplomatico Rum and pineapple and apricot notes), or one of nearly 40 other specialty cocktails. No matter what beverage you choose, you can’t go wrong with Prohibition’s carefully crafted recipes and artistic execution.

Best yet, the live jazz and blues music will have your toe tapping as you reminisce about the influence of the Harlem Renaissance while experiencing its effects in real time. Prohibition is known for being a hotspot for tunes, which makes this speakeasy the best place to unwind and groove as you make your way into the weekend.The recommended dress code on Fridays and Saturdays aligns with the Roaring 20s and, while street clothes are acceptable the rest of the week, flapper fashion is perfectly welcome Sunday through Thursday as well. If you find yourself near 548 Fifth Ave. in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, consider slinking by the speakeasy for a delightfully good time. Prohibition can also be found online at prohibitionsd.com.