Charlotte CampbellAh, the thrill of sneaking into the hidden clubs and speakeasies in Halifax, where the drinks are as secret as the entrances!
These exclusive joints are like the city’s best-kept secrets, whispered about by those in the know and coveted by those who dare to seek them out.
It’s a game of hide-and-seek for adults — except instead of hiding behind couches, we’re hiding behind unmarked doors and secret entrances within other establishments!
You can expect dimly lit corners, smooth jazz floating through the air, and a strict no-phone policy that practically screams, “Live in the moment, baby!”
It’s all about that old-school charm with a dash of modern flair, creating an experience that’s as elusive as it is unforgettable.
Now guard this list with your life. Remember, the first rule of speakeasy club is: you do not talk about speakeasy club.
So zip those lips and enjoy the ride — it’s going to be one heck of a night!
El Chino Snack Bar
Media credit: elchinosb
Website: http://elchinosnackbar.com/
Address: 2398 Robie St
Hours:
- Closed from Sunday to Wednesday
- Thursday to Saturday: 6–10 PM
Our first step is into El Chino, the cozy 20-seater speakeasy snack bar right across from the Halifax Commons. Tucked behind tinted windows, this hidden gem specializes in a fusion of flavors: tacos, dumplings, and plenty of tequila to wash it all down.
That’s right, you can taste both Mexican and Chinese snacks under one roof!
El Chino isn’t just any old bar — it’s the evening alter ego of the renowned Robie Street Station, known for its scrumptious breakfasts and lunches.
Here, they whip up Mexican and Chinese snack food from scratch, paired perfectly with premium tequila, creative cocktails, and local draft brews.
| Pro Tip: Don’t let the small size fool you — El Chino fills up fast, so be sure to arrive early to snag a seat and avoid disappointment! |
BKS Speakeasy
Media credit: studiomunge
Website: https://muirhotel.com/taste/bks/
Address: 1709 Lower Water St
Hours:
- Closed from Sunday to Tuesday
- Wednesday to Saturday: 5:30 PM–12 AM
BKS is Muir’s undercover speakeasy, where discretion meets distinction. Just slip through the private entrance and find yourself enveloped in a world of curved wooden walls, plush banquettes, and a touch of muted marble luxury.
It gets even better — step out onto the private terrace, where you can practically feel the harbor breeze on your face! It’s the most coveted spot in town, exclusively reserved for guests and clients of Muir.
Here, you can sip on carefully crafted concoctions that transport you through time and space, from prohibition-era punches to rum-running adventures. It’s a journey for your taste buds that’s as intriguing as the bar’s clandestine atmosphere.
| Pro Tip: Drop a subtle reference to Halifax’s rum-running past while ordering your drink — it’s sure to spark some conversation and maybe even earn you a special pour. |
Black Sheep Restaurant
Media credit: blacksheephfx
Website: http://www.blacksheephalifax.com/
Address: 1496 Lower Water St BH-204
Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 9 AM–10 PM
Like a diamond waiting to be discovered, Black Sheep Restaurant is that elusive spot you stumble upon only if you know where to look.
Tucked away on Dresden Row, just off Spring Garden Road, this chic joint is your go-to for fresh cocktails, craft beer, and burgers so serious they’ll make your taste buds sing! Plus, their brunch deals are so sweet, you’ll want to order them all.
So why take chances? Better play it safe and indulge in both!
| Pro Tip: Don’t skip their off-menu specials — ask the servers for the secret dishes! |
Noble
Media credit: quenchmagazine
Website: https://www.themiddlespoon.com/noble/
Address: 1563 Barrington St
Hours:
- Closed on Sunday
- Monday to Wednesday: 4–11 PM
- Thursday: 4 PM–12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 4 PM–1 AM
Tucked away beneath the bustling streets of Barrington lies a hidden club that’s so secret, even its location is on a need-to-know basis. Welcome to Noble, the underground speakeasy that’s got tongues wagging all over Halifax.
With its mysterious vibe and password-only entry, getting in is half the adventure. And if you’re wondering how to crack the code, well, let’s just say it’s a journey you’ll have to embark on solo.
Once you’ve got the password, it’s time to play it cool. Whisper the secret words to a staffer at the Middle Spoon, and prepare for your descent into the unknown.
Through kitchens, down corridors, and behind an unassuming door lies Noble. Here, cocktails are classier than a monocle and the ambiance is as smooth as jazz from the ’20s.
But shh! The rest is for you to uncover.
| Pro Tip: Don’t forget to dress to impress—this isn’t your run-of-the-mill watering hole. |
Drawing Room
Media credit: henryhousepub
Website: https://henryhouse.ca/wordpress/drawing-room/
Address: 1222 Barrington St
Hours:
- Closed from Monday to Tuesday
- Wednesday to Sunday: 12–11:30 PM
The Drawing Room is the best-kept secret in town. This exclusive spot sitting atop The Henry House is where you go to indulge in sophistication and catch up with your cronies.
Here, you can sink into plush chairs, sip on your finest Scotch, and pretend you’re living the high life! You can do all that amidst original period features, like exposed beams and a crackling fireplace.
It’s a haven for those seeking creative cocktails and delectable small plates, perfect for intimate gatherings or casual hangouts with old pals. And when hunger strikes, just slide down the stairs to The Henry House for a burger fix.
| Pro Tip: Make sure to arrive early to secure your spot among the elite crowd — and dress the part: casual chic! |
