Speakeasies are what single-handedly make New York City so cool. Yes, the cocktails are expensive (let’s call them upwards of $14), but they’re strong and they make you feel like a boss when you drink them in the dimly lit bar with your butt in a plush leather chair, looking up at an old-timey portrait of someone from the Prohibition era. Here are the top cocktails I’ve tried at New York City speakeasies:

Printing Press at the Up&Up Bar: This cocktail is a twist on an old-fashioned, with an extra layer of fruity flavor. (Old Overholt Rye, Amontillado Sherry, Cointreau Noir, Apricot Eau-de-Vie, Demerara, and Angostura & Orange Bitters)

The Dirty Rascal at The Back Room: Extra bonus here because cocktails are served in tea cups. SO CLANDESTINE. (Tequila, ginger, grapefruit juice, lime juice, soda, red chili) 

King of Cool at The Django: Located downstairs at the Roxy Hotel in TriBeCa, this is also a great live jazz bar! (Famous Grouse Scotch, Blood Orange, Campari, Honey, Lemon)

“I think I’m turning Japanese, I really think so” from Manhattan Cricket Club: Sweet with a hint of tartness. I never like anything too sweet, but this one is PERF. See my video here of the owner teaching me how to make it. (Yuzu juice, bitters, cardamom)

Night Café at Dear Irving: Who doesn’t love a speakeasy draped in crystals? My friend called this place “the perfect location for an affair.” (Genever, aperol, lemon, egg white, absinthe)

The Linda Lovelace from The Mulberry Project. It’s provocative, tart and everything you want in your mouth right now. LOL. Cracking myself up. But really, get some in a large jar to share with friends. (Gin, lime juice, herbs)

El Gaucho at Bathtub Gin: You kind of have to get a gin cocktail when you go here. And yes, there is indeed a bathtub in the middle of the bar. (Aviation Gin, Yellow Chartreuse, Pressed Lemon & Orange, House Made Mate Syrup, Grapefruit Bitters, Fresh Mint, Shaken & Served Tall)

The West Side from Employees Only: I’m a sucker for anything labeled “West Side” because that’s my HOOD. But it turns out I’m also a sucker for lemon and mint combos. (Charbay Meyer Lemon Vodka & Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice Shaken with Fresh Mint)

Let me know if you try any of them! Instagram a pic and tag me @maryinmanhattan!