Speakeasy: Secret Bars Around the World Maurizio Maestrelli
Hidden entrances, dark places, low volume music, smoke, women, crime and obviously alcohol. In the days of Prohibition (1920-1933), these were the explosive ingredients of the American speakeasies: clubs that served alcohol illegally, when the government prohibited even its production and transport. They were frequented by gangster such as Al Capone and Lucky Luciano and have become the symbol of an epoch immortalized by many movies. The new speakeasies are inspired by the typical unmistakable atmosphere of the beginning of the 20th century, when it was necessary to speak under your breath not to arise the suspects of the law. These trendy bars have often been conceived by keen bartenders, who rediscovered the tastes of the mixed drinking of the '20s and '30s. Specially-made furniture, refined cocktails, entrance by invitation only, themed dress code, locations without address, vintage atmosphere... nowadays the speakeasy is living a second life, a renaissance that is, first of all, a matter of taste. Cocktails are now high-quality, sophisticated and above all legal, but entering these clubs we jump into the past. This book will lead you to the discovery of the most famous current speakeasies, opening you the doors of a hidden but charming world.