Holiday Speakeasy Guide
Sip in style this holiday season- the speakeasy scene in KC is full of holiday cheer.
All photos by Anna Petrow
As the brisk autumn breeze slowly makes way for colder winter winds, the holiday spirit descends upon Kansas City. While it may be getting chilly outside, there are plenty of cozy speakeasy-style bars around town to keep you warm and cheerful. These are some of my favorite gems in Kansas City worth visiting this season.
Swordfish Tom’s | 210 W 19 Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64108
Experiencing Swordfish Tom’s is already a present in and of itself, but if you’re looking for a great holiday gift idea for that special someone, consider becoming a member of their “Little Black Book Club”. Having your own little black book grants you access to their “secret menu” of spirits, which will most definitely keep you on the nice list and make you a regular throughout the upcoming new year.
P.S. | 106 W 12th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105
If you have friends or family staying at Hotel Phillips for the holidays, I highly suggest sneaking away to P.S., the hotel’s contemporary incarnation of a 1930s speakeasy. While you won’t find any letters to Santa in this long-forgotten basement mail room, you will discover artfully made cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere. The live jazz every Thursday night could put even Ebenezer Scrooge in the most festive of spirits.
TikiCat | 401 Westport Road, Kansas City, MO 64111
Have you ever wanted to escape our Midwest winters for tropical paradise? If so, look no further than TikiCat. With a menu chock full of tiki-inspired drinks, Westport’s secret oasis will transport you to a boozy bungalow in our very own backyard. This Hawaiian hideaway is a must visit as the days grow longer, so put on your floral shirts and grass skirts—this year, we wear leis for the holidays.
Manifesto | 1924 Main Street, Kansas City, MO 64108
Photo by @everything_waldo
A memorable experience at any time during the year, Manifesto is particularly fun during the holidays. Twinkling lights guide your path through this Kansas City favorite as winter drinks and good spirits await. Grab some friends or invite your family to huddle around the subtle glow of candlelight and reminisce about your favorite holiday stories, most memorable gifts or embarrassing childhood memories. The hours will fly by, but it’s hard to imagine a better place to be during this time of year.
Hey! Hey! Club | 2700 Guinotte Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64120
A true gift to Kansas City, this new underground lounge at the J. Rieger & Co. distillery will keep you warm during the coldest winter nights. The swanky interior is cozy and alluring, boasting elegant furniture plucked straight from the prohibition era. A brilliant cocktail selection adds to this speakeasy’s charm, so be sure to gather friends and family and make your reservations.
Miracle | 2000 Grand Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64108
It’s the most wonderful time of the year and there’s no better way to get in the spirit than by visiting Miracle. This holiday-themed pop-up decks the halls with festive decor and their cheerful cocktails will keep you jolly throughout the night. Its Christmas presence is a Christmas present and, just like the holidays, is gone far too quickly—so don’t delay, go visit today.
