Ah, the allure of a hidden treasure. While in today’s world of widespread internet and social media access it may be hard to actually keep places like speakeasies secret, there’s still something about these tucked away, semi-mysterious spots that draws us in. Not all hidden bars are created equally though. Some are so secret or elusive that it may not even be worth the effort, and others are so overly manufactured or clearly set up as an Instagram grab that you can see through the facade immediately.
Here we round up 10 of the most aesthetic and Opulist-worthy speakeasies in Southern California so you see which one sparks your interest enough to send you on a quest to find it. Enjoy.
Youngblood, San Diego, CA
Gilded and opulent, Youngblood in downtown San Diego is a classic and gorgeous speakeasy for your visiting pleasure. Reservations are required as well as a $65 per person cover charge to account for your bespoke cocktail experience throughout the night. With velvet seats and a gorgeous lit up bar, this whole place is a vibe.
Employees Only, West Hollywood, CA
Employees Only is a WeHo cocktail destination serving full dinner and a late-night menu, in addition to the concept's trailblazing drinks. Step inside through the psychic's storefront (there'll be one on hand if you do want a reading) and find yourself in the Deco-inspired dining room and curved bar—just don't overlook Henry's Room, the speakeasy within a speakeasy, accessed through a back wall.
Death & Co, Los Angeles, CA
Death & Co brings its New York City roots to Los Angeles’s vibrant Arts District neighborhood. The third outpost of the bar, Death & Co LA is a return to the intimacy of the NY original, offering a night of world-class cocktails and delicious small plates in a dark and moody space that is cozy and inviting at the same time.
Noble Experiment, San Diego, CA
Photos: Noble Experiment
Noble Experiment, also located in the East Village part of Downtown San Diego, brings opulent and macabre details together to give the feel of a secret, romantic, and slightly scandalous spot to grab a drink. With skulls lining the walls and chandeliers that appear to be dripping with wax, there’s not a shortage of interesting design elements to look at while enjoying your night out.
Apotheke, Los Angeles, CA
Winner of multiple awards, Apotheke Los Angeles located between the Los Angeles River and Lost Angeles State Historic Park, features mixologists in pharmacist-style garb equipped to whip up complex cocktails at this off-the-beaten-path, elegant and luxurious hideaway.
Cold Shoulder, Los Angeles, CA
Cold Shoulder, in the Fairfax district of LA, is a whimsical and secretive bar accessible via a hidden bookcase from inside the decade-old Blue Collar bar with a firm speakeasy entry rule: Guests need a special invitation and know the revolving password to enter the hidden bookcase. Good luck making your way in ;)
Raised by Wolves, San Diego, CA
Photos: Raised by Wolves
Located in La Jolla just a little bit north of Downtown San Diego you’ll find Raised by Wolves - an ornate, old-world cocktail bar that feels like a time travel trip. Make sure you grab a reservation as far out as possible and then enjoy your opulent craft cocktail experience at one of the old school barstools facing the beautiful circular and very extra bar.
LSXO, Huntington Beach, CA
Photos: LSXO
At the back of Bluegold restaurant in Huntington Beach, you’ll find LSXO, a hidden gem of a secretive Vietnamese restaurant with a pretty little bar and ocean views included. It’s an intimate and chic space offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere with a chic and stylish design.
Plow & Angel Speakeasy, Santa Barbara, CA
Inspired by the clandestine bars of the Prohibition era, Plow & Angel Speakeasy located inside the classic and elegant San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara revives the spirit of hidden indulgence. This exclusive enclave is where craft cocktails and one-of-a-kind spirits flow, wrapped in an atmosphere of seductive charm. Every night, the venue comes alive with the sultry notes of live music, making it the perfect place for those seeking an escape from the ordinary.
Adults Only, Hollywood, CA
Adults Only is an upscale dive bar tucked away in the apropos corner pocket of a Hollywood strip mall. As the neighboring businesses’ lights dim down, a pink neon sign illuminates and a new life begins to brew in the quiet plaza. Guests enter through a corridor adorned with an eclectic curation of VHS tapes, choice movie posters, and small televisions exhibiting a variety of cult classics. Reupholstered church pews and handcrafted furniture provide an ample lounge area. The common thread that weaves throughout the venue is an admiration of the entertainment industry. One can travel through the video store lifestyle of the 90s to arrive in the golden era of film, appreciating the impact of entertainment on culture and society.
Now you get to embark on your own magical treasure hunt tracking these places down and enjoying a (semi-) secretive night out. All locations here are featured on Opulist when searching for bars in your city of choice. Which city’s hidden bars should we cover next?
The Aesthetic Edit is your go-to source for design-forward restaurants, bars, hotels, and more. Keep following along to find more aesthetically appealing content just like this.
Head toOpulist’s search pageto discover the most beautiful and aesthetic places to travel to in Southern California and beyond.
More dazzling places we think you’ll love…
Mentioned in this article
