New York Events

Today is the 75th anniversary of the repeal of Prohibition. It was on December 5, 1933 that the 21st Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, thereby repealing the National Prohibition Act that had outlawed alcohol consumption since 1920.

In order to celebrate like it's 1933, we've found a few of the most famous speakeasies across the nation, all of which made sure to keep thirsty patrons supplied with all the libations they needed during the 13-year dry spell.

Today you can transport meeting guests back to this period of intrigue and secretive thrills by hosting an event at one of these glamorous venues, all restored to their former glory. This time around, though, the liquor flows freely.

Bill's Gay Nineties

Stepping into Bill's is like stepping back in time to the Roaring Twenties. Guests are immersed in this era of extravagance thanks to the New York restaurant's antique bar and cash register, saloon bars, checkered tablecloths and historic photos and memorabilia. Bill's carefree spirit has certainly continued on from its days as one of New York City's most popular speakeasies, which today offers piano entertainment, hearty fare and intoxicating cocktails.

Bill's can accommodate parties of 20 to 100 people for a wide range of New York events. The third-floor Tenderloin Room is an exclusive space for meetings and events, complete with a private bar reportedly crafted from a fireplace in the old Rockefeller mansion.

ROOM 21

Chicago restaurant ROOM 21 holds a prominent place in the history of Prohibition, being one of the biggest liquor warehouses of Al Capone. In 1930, Eliot Ness and his group of "Untouchables" stormed the illegal storage place, uncovering 200,000 gallons of alcohol. This restored warehouse gets its names from the door marked "Room 21" found at the end of the its former escape tunnel.

With heavy curtains, soft lighting and a granite bar, ROOM 21 is an luxurious spot to host your event. This Chicago venue can can accommodate events of 15 to 250 people, offering innovative cuisine, an extensive wine list, and unparalleled atmosphere.

Bourbon and Branch

The West Coast was just as inventive as the rest of the nation when it came to selling and consuming liquor during Prohibition. Bourbon and Branch sits on the location of one of San Francisco's famous speakeasies, formerly operated under the cover name of "JJ Russell's Cigar Shop." The understated elegance of this San Francisco restaurant sets the perfect stage for guests to enjoy an extensive selection of bourbon as well as a number of rums, tequilas and one Canadian whiskey. House rules dictate that guests should not "even think of asking for a 'Cosmo.'"

Its glamorous decor, convenient setting and professional staff make Bourbon and Branch an ideal venue for your San Francisco events. With three San Francisco meeting spaces—the Main Bar, Library and Russell's Room—this speakeasy is more than capable of delivering top-notch private events.