The Back Room

The Back Room is a meticulously recreated Prohibition-era speakeasy tucked away in a nondescript alley on Norfolk Street in Manhattan's Lower East Side. To enter, you walk through a dark alley and up a staircase, passing a fake storefront that once served as a front for the illegal bar. Inside, the space is dimly lit with exposed brick walls, vintage furniture, and a cozy, intimate atmosphere. The bar serves classic cocktails in teacups and glasses hidden in paper bags, a nod to the speakeasy's illicit origins. Live jazz music often fills the room, adding to the nostalgic vibe. It's a unique experience that transports you back to the 1920s, making it a favorite among locals and visitors seeking an authentic taste of New York's hidden nightlife.

Don't miss

• Enter through the unmarked door in the alley and climb the stairs to find the hidden bar.
• Sip a classic cocktail served in a teacup, as was done during Prohibition.
• Listen to live jazz performances on select nights.
• Admire the vintage decor, including antique furniture and period-appropriate lighting.
• Take a photo by the 'Back Room' sign outside for an Instagram-worthy shot.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit The Back Room

Cheapest way inNew York City The Official Rockefeller Center Tour4.2★ · 127 travelers~1 hoursFree cancellationFrom$29 per personSee dates →Most bookedNew York Catacombs by Candlelight4.7★ · 2,915 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$38 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleOutdoor Escape Room in New York City - Central Park5★ · 34 travelers~2 hoursFrom$75 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Arrive early to avoid lines, especially on weekends.
• Make a reservation online to guarantee entry.
• Dress code is smart casual; no sportswear or flip-flops.
• Cash is preferred, though cards are accepted. Tip generously.

A bit of history

The Back Room occupies a space that was a real speakeasy during Prohibition (1920-1933). The building's facade still bears the sign of a toy store, which served as a cover for the illegal bar. Today, it preserves that clandestine spirit.