Vegas’ Hidden Speakeasies That Crush Strip Lounges (Part 1 of 2)
Why drop $25 on a Strip lounge cocktail when you can sip in retro style?
New Series Alert! Vegas’ hidden speakeasies are your ticket to sipping in retro style. In this two-part series, we’re spilling the secrets on bars that crush overpriced lounges with killer drinks and old Vegas vibes.
Part 1 dives into the Cosmopolitan’s speakeasy empire and other Strip gems, each one a middle finger to watered-down tourist traps. Stay tuned for Part 2 on Friday, where we hit the newest spots and downtown dives that could make you ditch the Strip for good.
In 2024, Strip bars raked in over $1.5 billion, per the Nevada Tourism Board, but most of that is from suckers who don’t know better. We’ve all seen the crazy bar receipts of $15 beers and $25 drinks from a hotel lobby.
That’s where Vegas’ hidden speakeasies come in. These spots crush Strip lounges with secrecy (well, somewhat secrecy), craft cocktails, and atmospheres that feel like old Vegas. They’re not just bars; they’re experiences tucked behind doors, freezers, or bookshelves. Offering a different experience behind every sip.
We’ll start with the Cosmopolitan, which packs more speakeasies into one resort than most cities have in total.
Cosmo’s Speakeasy Empire: The Strip’s Secret Weapon
The Cosmopolitan is a speakeasy hotspot, hiding bars like a magician hides cards. If you’re staying here, you could spend a week without leaving the resort and still discover new ones. Although they aren’t so “secret” anymore, any of these hotspot lounges will guarantee good drinks and good times.
Ghost Donkey (Block 16 Food Hall, Cosmopolitan)
I remember stumbling into this mezcal haven late one night, pushing open a green door with a white donkey sticker, no sign, no hype. The vibe is Mexican cantina meets Vegas quirk, with dim string lights, a 27-seat lounge that feels intimate, and a crowd that feels more locals than tourists.
Drinks like the PISTOLERO ( viva plata, ancho verde, roasted poblano,pineapple, fresh lime) or Truffle Nachos crush Strip lounges’ $25 chips and salsa. No lines, just push the door, but arrive early (opens at 4 PM) to beat the wait.
Why it crushes: No cover, real flavor that lingers, and a location that’s on the Strip, but hidden enough to feel exclusive. Perfect for mezcal fans skipping Omnia’s $30 tequila shots. The late-night trips can be really busy. I love going here for that drink right before you head to the room to get ready for the night. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a blast after dinner and an excellent late-night hang as well.
The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails (Cosmopolitan)
My first visit here felt like a movie set, fronted by a real barbershop where you can get a shave, and the speakeasy hides behind a janitor’s door. Once inside, it’s a 1920s saloon with live music, leather booths, and over 150 whiskeys that make you forget the Strip’s watered-down pours. This is more like a small concert hall with a lounge vibe. It’s much bigger than it looks on the outside.
They offer specialty drinks, such as the Mustache Ride (Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whiskey, Cherry Heering, Vanilla Oregano, Guinness, and Black Islay Mustache), or the Bonnie+Clyde (Baker’s Whiskey, Cointreau, Aperol, lemon juice, simple syrup, serves 2 with a barbershop-branded flask included with purchase).
However, I always choose a bourbon, or ask for a custom cocktail from the mixologists who actually care about your taste. Opens at 8 PM (Sunday–Wednesday) or 6 PM (Thursday–Saturday), no reservations but expect a wait.
Why it crushes: The live jazz beats Strip DJs spinning the same tired tracks, and the dual barber/bar setup is a conversation starter that adds charm without over the top gimmicks. It’s the kind of place where you linger, not pose for Instagram. I’ve had to help a few friends (and my wife) back to the room after a late night here, and it won’t be the last time, because we keep coming back. It’s not overly dressy, but I have found that when it’s busy, being dressed to the nines with a stunning lady by your side can help you get past the “Janitor”. Reservations are now strongly recommended, which kind of kills the speakeasy vibe, but secrets don’t stay secrets long in a city of sin!
Ski Lodge at Superfrico (Cosmopolitan)
Tucked inside Superfrico restaurant, this winter-themed speakeasy is behind a “ski shop” door, and walking in feels like escaping the desert heat for an alpine hideaway. Cozy fireplaces, faux snow, and wood paneling make it feel like a cozy cabin, with cocktails like the Salty Sled Dog (deep eddy vodka, Aperol, grapefruit, strawberry, and Punt e Mes) pairing with gourmet pizzas.
Its first come first serve now, which kind of kills it for me. Seeing a velvet rope outside a secret door is a bummer for those of us who just “knew what it was”. Still, the environment alone is worth it, or do what I do, eat at Superfrico, then walk over from the inside (I haven’t been stopped yet). You can expect off-the-wall visitors with that special Spiegelworld vibe. We’ve seen dancing Yetis being chased by their girlfriends, ‘‘80s-themed sax players, and other crazy acts.
Why it crushes: Themed without being kitschy, and the food is leagues above Strip lounge snacks, it’s close to actual dining with Superfrico across the way. It’s a spot where you can actually talk over the music, not shout, and the surprise factor keeps it exciting.
Cosmo’s trio alone crushes Strip lounges like Omnia or XS, where $200 gets you a table with watered-down bottles and a view of influencers.
Strip Hidden Gems: Where the Magic Happens Without the Hype
The Strip has its own secrets, if you know where to look. These speakeasies prove you can get that old Vegas feel without the overpriced glow.
The Vault at Bellagio
This one’s a time capsule behind a door, with Japanese glassware, tableside smoked Old Fashioneds, and bartenders who craft martinis so cold they’d sober up Dean Martin. The plush seating and no-Instagram policy make it feel exclusive without trying. Try the Vapor Trail (Hibiki Harmony smoked bliss)—over-the-top but worth it.
So worth it in fact that I dedicated a newsletter to it, you can read a full review by clicking This Hidden Bar at Bellagio Is What Vegas Should Feel Like, where I went into ultra-specific detail. In short, this is by far my favorite Speakeasy on the Strip. However, I will warn you that for this one, bring your wallet; it isn’t cheap.
A reservation is required, ironically, via their Instagram link, which opens at 5 PM.
Why it crushes: No gimmicks, just precision drinks and a vibe that defines old school elegance with a new age twist, you have to go to understand. It’s the kind of place where you whisper secrets, not shout over EDM. It also has the fanciest toilet I have ever seen.
Easy’s at Aria
Hidden behind a donut shop in the Proper Eats lobby, this spot feels like a 1950s lounge with live jazz, velvet curtains, and cocktails like the Smoke Show (Basil Hayden Bourbon, banana liqueur, sweet vermouth, chocolate bitters, dehydrated orange, mint top, served with a cigar box with candied cigarettes & a smoking ashtray.)
The small space maintains an intimate atmosphere, with entry via a “donut wall” door. Get the donut to get in. opens at 5 PM; early arrival helps, but you can make reservations.
I wanted to like this place, but it was a miss for me. Maybe you’ll have a different experience. I’ve been wrong before, but it was so bad that I haven’t gone back. It was a miss on service for the price, and the drinks were missing something, and it was way too loud for a “Speakeasy”. I love Aria, but this is on my Pass list.
Why it crushes: It doesn’t. The live music and retro decor transport you, beating standard strip lounges, but for me, there are better options. Still, see for yourself and tell me if you disagree.
Chez Bippy at MGM Grand
Hidden behind Luchini’s Slice Shop, this speakeasy has plush booths, a warm wooden feel, and drinks like the Sicilian Heatwave (Herradura Silver Tequila, Solerno Liqueur, Lime, Chili-Infused Blood Orange Nectar). The Intimate room feels like a secret club, hidden inside a Pizza shop. We stopped by after dinner, if you’re in the area and want a decent meal, certainly check it out.
Why it crushes: The drinks pack a punch, and it’s attached to Luchini Italian Restaurant. A great spot to have a cocktail after a nice Italian dinner. It’s only open Thursday to Saturday, 7-12 am
The Lock at Horseshoe (inside Cabinet Of Curiosities)
Behind a door in the Horseshoe casino, this spot feels like a Prohibition vault with lock-and-key entry. I won’t spoil the entry, but it starts by picking up the phone just to get in, and then a new world opens. They offer a variety of classic drinks and some signature cocktails. Additionally, they provide a paper with a list of preferences and checkboxes next to different types of experiences you enjoy, such as camping, mountains, and stargazing. This experience-based approach allows you to customize your drink order by telling the bartender exactly what you want. It’s fun, it’s different and I guess it’s your fault if you don’t like it.
Why it “kinda” crushes: The lock theme adds intrigue, but customer service was lacking during my visit. We arrived early and were told by the bartender at The Cabinet of Curiosities that The Lock was full, despite their empty bar. We left, but my wife quickly made a reservation online, and we walked into The Lock to find only four people inside. It left a poor impression, but I’d consider returning if I reserved a time slot, as my experience didn’t match their claim of being walk-in friendly.
Back Room at Bavette’s (Park MGM)
Tucked behind a velvet curtain at Bavette’s steakhouse lies a cozy nook with leather chairs, jazz, and classic cocktails like the $20.99 Old Fashioned (made with High West double Rye). Often overlooked, this hidden gem rivals other steakhouses on the strip, including Golden Steer and Barry’s Downtown Prime. For a memorable evening, make dinner reservations and let the hostess know that you'd like to visit the speakeasy before or after your meal. Enjoy a stylish yet relaxed night of delicious dinner and drinks, trust me, you’ll thank me later!
Why it crushes: The steakhouse tie-in makes it special. It’s never felt overcrowded, and the customer service is always fantastic. I enjoy this place; in fact, we are waiting for Thanksgiving meal reservations to open so we can secure our spot. The only problem is those Old Fashioneds go down like shots, and they bite back if you aren’t careful, but hey…. Vegas!
Stay Tuned for Part 2!
Friday, we’ll uncover the newest hidden bars, like Caesars’ caviar-fueled rock ‘n’ roll lounge and Planet Hollywood’s candy-coated escape, plus downtown and off-Strip gems that locals love.
-Jason
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