Enter with a password or through secret doors, staircases and even walls to experience speakeasy bars in Tennessee. You'll find long lists of cocktails, warm and inviting spaces and even live music that will give you an elegant evening to remember.
Hidden Speakeasies In and Near Memphis
Crosstown Arts' Art Bar - Memphis
Photo Credit: @crosstownartsartbar
Shop and dine at the local eateries on the main floor of the multi-level, multi-use Crosstown Concourse. Then, make your way up the red spiral staircase to the second floor where you'll find art galleries. In this space, you'll find an opening in the walls that leads you to the Art Bar. The Art Bar offers an exclusive wine list, unique cocktail concoctions and finger foods. You'll love the artistic vibe and the exhibits of artwork from different artists each month. Art Bar is open 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tuesdays to Sundays.
Fat Charlie's Speakeasy - Memphis
Tucked away in Downtown Memphis's Harbor Town, Fat Charlie's Speakeasy is a cozy, highly-regarded hidden gem known for its exceptional selection of bourbons and whiskeys, alongside a sophisticated cigar lounge atmosphere. This intimate spot offers expertly crafted cocktails and a warm, inviting vibe, quickly making it one of the Mid-South's most exclusive and praised places for an elevated evening of spirits and conversation.
Hidden Speakeasies in and near Nashville
Red Phone Booth - Nashville
Tucked just steps from Broadway in downtown Nashville, Red Phone Booth invites guests into a 1920s-inspired lounge through a clever entry ritual: dialing a secret code inside a vintage London-style phone booth (get the code to dial in from any concierge downtown). Once inside, visitors are immersed in an opulent atmosphere featuring restored brick walls, Italian leather seating, and a honey onyx bar. Known for its rare craft cocktails, Neapolitan pizzas, and exclusive cigar program, this speakeasy blends Southern hospitality with vintage elegance.
The Velvet Room - Murfreesboro
Slip through a graffiti-lined alley in downtown Murfreesboro and you’ll find The Velvet Room speakeasy—if you know the password. This hidden gem channels the mystique of the Prohibition era with velvet drapes, candlelit tables, and jazz-infused ambiance. Guests who crack the weekly riddle are rewarded with priority seating and a 90-minute immersive experience that feels like stepping into a 1920s noir film.
Speakeasies in and near Knoxville & Chattanooga
The Windsor Speakeasy - Johnson City
You'll find The Windsor Speakeasy on West Market Street in downtown Johnson City. Step into this luxe establishment to find leather seating, mood lighting and craft cocktails. Wine and spirits are also served. Gather your friends and spend some time sipping and chatting in this beautiful space.
The Vault - Knoxville
Photo Credit: @amanda.burton.travels
This hidden bar is the newest speakeasy in Knoxville. The Vault is in the old Holston Bank, beneath the Pan-Latin restaurant, Vida. This cocktail lounge serves up cocktails, craft beers, exclusive wines and live music. Choose from the extensive cocktail list based on your mood and taste. Choose from bold and intriguing flavors to timeless & opulent. Non-alcoholic cocktails are also available. Snap photos in front of the dazzling bank vault door and while sitting on bespoke chairs and booths.
Peter Kern Library - Knoxville
Photo Credit: Plan A
Behind the Oliver Hotel lobby, the speakeasy Peter Kern Library is a popular Knoxville hangout among hotel guests and locals. The ambiance is warm and inviting, and cocktails are named after famous literary characters. Browse their extensive cocktails and spirits list, then sample culinary dishes like fettuccine Bolognese, pan-seared scallops, short ribs, pork chops, swordfish and more. Desserts like campfire s'mores, lemon olive oil cake and goat cheese cheesecake will make your night even sweeter.
Unknown Caller - Chattanooga
Photo Credit: @unknowncallerbar
You'll access Unknown Caller in Chattanooga by way of phone box to experience this fun speakeasy. New cocktails are developed every week. Slip into a comfy booth or grab a seat on the outdoor alley patio. You'll find volcano bowls, slushee cocktails, ramen and mac & cheese cups, cheese boards, wine and local beer on the menu. $2 Taco Tuesdays and Whiskey Wednesdays are a staple, too.
