Ambiance is excellent for a first date. Great cocktails, really cool concept! Service was also great as well!

What happened to customer service and setting expectations? I have been at this establishment many times and we never had such a terrible experience with the hostess and staff on our last visit. We were celebrating a special occasion and we were abruptly told after staying 40 minutes on a Sunday night that we may only receive 1 to 2 drinks, and then asked to leave because the reservation time limit is 60 minutes and has been exceeded. The crazy part was that the place wasn't busy, there were many open spaces at the bar and along the bench. Not setting expectations for the experience prior to having drinks and then abruptly pushing people out of the establishment devalues the customer's experience. It's frustrating that we were seated without any service until 20 minutes into the reservation and then asked to leave 40 minutes into our stay and saw other tables remain past the hour timeframe who were seated before our arrival. This establishment and the experience are not the same as it was in the past and I truly hope management is working towards ensuring the original vision of Noble Experiment isn't lost with time. read more

Cute little "speakeasy". Had a delicious drink and one of the bartenders was quite lovely and attentive. The one with the hat was a bit aloof but he nailed the drink so... It was a fun experience to at least try once. read more

Noble Experiment - A Penicillin - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

The best Dark & Stormy I've had in my life. Great service and unexpected surprises. Check it out. Bring a date. It's delightful.

VERY COOL EXPERIENCE! If you're able to find the place, which luckily we were because one of the workers happened to be walking outside, definitely worth stopping in if you can get in. We went on a Sunday and there was a huge wait so we decided to make a reservation for Tuesday which was a smart idea because since it's a speakeasy it's there's not much seating. It was really cool walking into a functioning kitchen with popcorn cooking and then being led into the back with a really neatly designed skull wall. The drinks definitely weren't watered down and the staff was extremely attentive and were probably some of the most talented bartenders I've seen in my 6 years of going to bars. read more

Noble Experiment - Entrance - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Came here with a friend and it was a fun experience. You arrive at a warehouse and enter through a side door where you walk down a passage to another door. On the other side, you'll find a lonely looking hostess, waiting to seat you. She walks you to another unmarked door which opens to a dark, minuscule yet opulent bar. The drinks are heavenly and unique. They were explained in a lot of detail and watching them being made was like seeing a science experiment. The whole experience was fun and different. Leaving there can be a challenge since the drinks are strong and you'll have to make your way back down the yellow brick road, to civilization. Definitely go, I can't wait to visit again! read more

100/100 What an experience! Highly recommend checking out this fab spot! Located inside another bar... that's for you to research Fabulous drinks - great service and overall rad vibe. Like nowhere I've ever been. The journey to here was let alone super fun! Check it out.. you won't be disappointed read more

I cane here with a friend recently. I thought I would be claustrophobic. But, somehow the small space without windows doesn't feel confined. My friend ordered his drink in a way that I would butcher. It was super fancy and I felt like a tool ordering a vodka and soda. I tried to repeat in a similar fashion to my own liking... Me: I will have a vodka base Friend: Do you have vodka Bartender: we have one Me: okay cool, with something not too sweet Bartender: you like bitter Me: not really (I'm already failing) Bartender: okay I think I have something in mind Me: (in my mind... really? Damn you are good) The drink is served and it has a slightly light green hue. It's tart, slightly sweet and delicious. I have no idea how they do it. But, these bartenders are seriously masters of their craft AND it's fun to watch them at work. read more

This place makes top-notch cocktails in a VERY good atmosphere. Give the staff the flavor profiles that you enjoy, and they'll create a masterpiece for you. It's located inside Neighborhood, which is also an outstanding bar that serves great food. Reservations are a great idea, but you can walk-in as well...even on Friday and Saturday night. They do a great job with balancing reservations and walk-ins. Even if you have to wait 30 min to get in, you can wait at the bar in Neighborhood, and you'll have a GREAT experience there while you wait. Do NOT miss this SD speakeasy. read more

We had such an amazing time in this super cool, tucked away speakeasy! In order to gain entry, you need to make reservations on their website. Just hop on (about a week in advance for weekends) and book your reservations. Note that you'll need to be a small party (generally 4 or less). More than that and you will likely have to make a separate arrangement as it is a rather small venue. That said, once you get booked up, they'll text you to confirm! The bar itself is hidden behind the "kegs" near the bathrooms. Just pull them toward you and discover your own little secret alcoholic paradise! These bartenders are absolutely world class! They have a menu featuring some of the best cocktails I've ever had or you can go with dealer's choice and let the bartender craft a brilliant cocktail for you based on the spirit of your choosing. Expect to pay about $15 per drink and let me tell you, they are worth every penny. This is one of the coolest venues you'll experience for enjoying your favorite libation. If you're lucky, you'll get their awesome hostess Desiree! She made the experience that much more special and exciting. 5 stars!! read more

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Hands down one of my favorite bars, period. This is also one of my first speakeasy experiences over 10 years ago. Came here with a group and I just was not feeling well that day. Didn't really feel like drinking and felt bad since this was such an exclusive place. I told the bartender I how I was feeling and he insisted I let him make me a drink. He said if I didn't like it then I didn't have to pay for it. He whipped up this extremely spicy ginger forward cocktail. He said the ginger would help with my nausea as well as explaining the reason for all of the other ingredients. By then end of that drink I felt so much better and was really able to thoroughly enjoy my time here! After that experience I was sold! Ever since then I always make it a point to come here every time I find myself in San Diego. Recently I've been there 3 times within the past 12 months and each time I've been lucky enough to just show up and get seated with only a short wait. The experience is still the same great night like it always has been. The bartenders each time are the best of the best. I can't put in to words enough how wonderful this place is and how good of a time you'll have by coming here! Don't come here with a drink you want in mind, just be aware of what tastes you like and maybe what type of liquors you prefer (or dont) and let your bartender whip up something you never imagined! read more

Nobel Experiment is one of those speakeasy's that you can just come in and relax with one of their concoctions that will have you on "Easy Street". What better way to enjoy the remainder of your evening, or quite possibly the start of it. I'm pretty sure the libation gods would approve of this. I am trying to find something here that will not sound repetitive, but I will tell you why I do like Nobel Experiment. * Relaxed environment * A decor like no other. If you want originality , and uniqueness this is the spot. * Badass cocktails list, with bartenders who know how to make a proper cocktail. * A hidden gem in the Gaslamp District in San Diego that doesn't need those flashy lights, and signs to let people know what is going on inside. * It is located on "G" street, how awesome is that. I just like saying "What's up G"! I know, I'm corny like that. * You either in or you're not, but reservations will make sure you are in. * Hidden behind a wall of kegs, that is really the entrance. (Just go and you'll see what I mean by that) * If you are a bourbon aficionado , you will not be disappointed. In all Nobel Experiment is a great spot to just get away and enjoy a cocktail, with a break from the norm. read more

Awesome speakeasy in DTSD! Connected to The Neighborhood. We came by on a Thursday night without a reservation & were able to get in. We waited in the kitchen which is transformed into a tiny movie room showing a random movie, complimentary popcorn, & their own Kitchen Cocktail menu. Be aware of the pickle cocktail, it is definitely an acquired taste! Once there was room in Noble Experiment, we were allowed in for standing room. It is very cozy & intimate. The bartenders are very friendly & personable. They have their own cocktail menu with cocktails different from the Kitchen. Drinks are strong & tasty! Definitely try their dessert drink, one of them tasted like a boozy Horchata, mmm! read more

This is the second speakeasy I've been to in San Diego and I have to say I had an absolute fabulous time!! First of all finding it was a fun experience. You go in and it feels like an abandoned kitchen...then you see the barrels and wonder should I push or pull? Well I'll leave that up to you. But once we got in the host was so lovely. She offered to keep my leftovers safe and gave us a rundown of the menu. When we got inside I was amazed. It's small, the details are so intricate. There's a few booth seats and otherwise bar seats. We sat at the bar, which was awesome because we got to talk to the rad bartenders who informed us of anything and everything we asked about and more. The cocktails were amazing. We got the classic margarita and old fashioned, as well as the special margarita, Mai Tai, and two "bartenders choice". All so impressive and tasty. read more

Noble Experiment - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Awesome place - super relaxed ambiance friendly staff and creative drinks all around. The nite was epic !

The noble experience is a wonderful speakeasy in downtown. You won't find it unless you know where to look. Super cool and fun atmosphere.

We heard about this spot from a waiter at a place we were eating lunch on a Saturday. We decided to go over right after 6pm (after it opened) because we didn't have a reservation. The hostess was able to get us in about 10-15 mins after we checked in. Very dark, intimate environment. We sat at the bar (there are some small couch areas and mostly bar seating). There were 2 bartenders, one named Malibu Ken who are clearly talented with flavor profiles. They generally ask you if you want a spirit-forward drink or refreshing drink, and what spirit you want. You can add in if you like any specific flavors (fruits like citrus, berries, etc. or spices like ginger, cinnamon, etc.) and they will make you custom drinks. There are no menus. The drinks were incredibly tasty and I believe around $16 which we thought was reasonable for the experience and custom cocktails. read more

Noble Experiment - Custom cocktails - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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This review is for the host that was working the night of November 23, 2019. I walked into the kitchen/waiting area with my group of 9 people. The kitchen was filled with people so I already knew there would be a wait. I asked the host how long the wait would be; he told me to wait outside and he would come out and talk to me. I waited in the kitchen because it was cold outside. We waited for about 15 minutes. Within this 15 min, I saw him talk to other customers and check them in. So I asked again what the wait time would be and he told me to go outside AGAIN. I said can you just tell me how long the wait is because you told me to go outside and wait but you never came and you've been checking people in. He then asked how big my group was and I said a group of 9. He responded that we would take up a 1/3 of his restaurant so it would only be possible to seat us if he split us up into 2 groups and even if he split us up we had about 5 parties ahead of us. Keep in mind he still didn't respond to my question of how long the wait would be. He essentially only gave me reasons to leave without explicitly stating so. I walked back to my group who was waiting by the door to explain that we would have to split up. As I did this, he started telling my group repeatedly to move outside because it was a fire hazard to stand by the door. My entire group had been waiting there the whole time and now all of a sudden it was a problem. Fire Hazard? That entire kitchen filled with people was a fire hazard. This was the point where I began to get angry because he was without a doubt being rude and unprofessional for no reason. The host was ushering our group out the door! I couldn't believe how rude he was being. First he was too busy to talk to me and give me a wait time, now he's giving us the VIP walk out. I asked what his name was and he laughed and said "get out." I asked again and he said "leave." I said WILL get your name if I don't get it, your boss and people on yelp will definitely know who I am referring to! So I took a picture of him. He said you just took a picture with out my consent! LOL. He said do you need me to get my manager? I said Yes! He didn't obviously and I caught his bluff. He again said you took a picture without my consent and i just said STFU youre a joke. And he said good luck getting back in here. We all laughed at him and left. The people Noble Experiment has handling its door and guests are a joke. I can see from another recent 1 star review that someone had a problem with another hostess. NE needs to train its hosts properly. With the little power NE gave him, he was unnecessarily rude and unprofessional. UPDATE: Uploaded a picture of the little host but yelp took it down. read more

A seemingly average spot when you're outside but as soon as you enter, you would feel you're transported to a classy, intimate bar. We arrived quite late so the kitchen is already closed but the service, drinks, and crowd were distinctive. They have a wide variety of drinks to offer and I even asked the bartender for a personalized drink that was just what I wanted. Would definitely be my regular spot when I'm in San Diego. read more

Best cocktails I've ever had in my life. However, trying to single out their cocktails would not be fair because the noble experiment experience as a whole is not something you can or will be able to experience at most places. The decor inside is very cool, hip, and chill. Drinks are amazing. All the workers are super friendly, fast, & helpful. Even if you're not a cocktail fan, you should really give this place a try. I've never had such an amazing experience at a bar before and I don't imagine I will anytime soon. read more

Noble Experiment - Waiting room menu as of 9.7.19. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Honestly this is just one of the coolest, swankiest bars/speakeasy we've ever been to. Everything from the music to the decor, lighting and vibe is just always on point and creates such a cool atmosphere and environment. Then their service is top notch- the bartenders and servers are incredibly cool, kind and skilled. They know what they're doing and although they have such an amazing menu with classic selections, the dealers choice is always such a cool way to go. They listen to what kind of spirit and flavor you typically like, and then create a craft cocktail for you based on that. Everything I've ever tried there has been incredible. I love the Buddha's Kiss and the Dominicana which are both alike and have this delicious house made coconut cream on top. My boyfriend loves The Revolver, and all of their versions of old fashioned's he says are top notch. We will continue to come back here and take guests here as well! Love it. read more

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One of the best bars in SD. I hadn't been in a while, and it was just as perfect as all my past visits. Small, intimate, great vibe. 8-10 seats at the bar and maybe 6 tables. The bartenders are true artists and masters of their craft. Fun, positive, and so knowledgeable. Bespoke cocktails. But, this spot isn't for everyone! I noticed several business casual tables irritated and looked miserable, cramped, and frustrated with the wait. Then don't come here! Each cocktail is an experience and takes time to create. If you aren't down to settle in and let the artist work, then go to any of 100+ bars walking distance from here and just grab a glass of over oaked Napa Cab! The playlist was incredible of new and old school hip hop, and tried so many amazing cocktails: from cachaća, mezcal, pisco, Amari, rums, and ryes, they all are represented in creative delicious expressions. Thank you Noble Experiment for always teleporting me into another dimension and allowing your guests to lose themselves for an hour or two on an epic imbibe journey! Stay awesome and unapologetic, as it's perfect! Hostess was incredible as well. So stop giving her shit for doing her job! read more

We've been to Noble Experiment MANY times over the last 5-6 years, and since the stricter time limits were implemented, we've been a bit leary about returning. Yesterday we were served by Drew, and I think he managed to restore our faith in this establishment. His drinks were on point, well crafted, and balanced. Every drink we were served was exactly what each of us were looking for. Our table had a very wide range of palettes and there were NO misses that night. I think it was a perfect end to our night, and I can't wait to come back! read more

I had heard a lot about how cool this place was so I made a reservation for myself to check it out when I was visiting San Diego. That sat me in front of their mixers at the bar which blocked my front view and left me with no room to rest my arms. I spoke to the manager who comped my drink which was also blah as well and said if I waited he'd seat me somewhere else. I was so upset that I was sat here in the first place I just wanted to leave at that point. I asked the manager "how would you feel if you sat here and this was your view?" He didn't really have much to say. I literally had to keep swiveling my bar stool to my right left and behind me so I could see! I'm never coming back here again, this wasn't a seat and there shouldn't be a bar stool. Just because I'm one person doesn't mean you should seat me in such a location read more

Noble Experiment - My view and seat at the bar, terrible and no arm room - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

This has been on my to go list for a long time now. We couldn't get a reservation so we ended up walking in at around 7 PM. They were able to take our name for a group of four, and text us in 20 to 30 minutes to let us know that they had space. I was very excited about this, and I think there's only occurred because we went on a Sunday night. When you are seated, the experience is such a good time and they design a cocktail for you based on the answers that you give to some questions. Overall, the drinks were pretty on point to what we asked for, and the drinks were also very affordable, around $15 each. For some reason I thought since this place was extremely exclusive, the drinks would be more expensive so this is definitely worth a try! read more

It is really cool to have a bartender cater to your taste. The drink I was made had a great smell to it. The wall of skulls and the melted candle chandelier gave it a gothic vibe. While we waited to be called in we had some drinks and food in the restaurant. read more

Noble Experiment - The walk of skulls. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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How are people even getting reservations? I've called them, I've sent a message on instagram, I've emailed, I've texted, and they haven't replied to a single avenue of attempted communication. I have no idea how to get a weekend reservation on open table or if they even offer weekend reservations. read more

A hidden speak easy-- a bar inside of a bar. Perfect! Yelp lead me to noble experiment which is conveniently located inside the neighborhood bar. I came here on a Thursday night with my party of 3 and had a 15 minute wait to get in. No problem-- just grab a drink at the neighborhood and wait. Anyways, after our wait we were texted to meet at the host stand. We weren't allowed to bring in our drinks from the Neighborhood, so we were forced to chug. A little annoying, but it was just bad timing. We're were taken to our little table, and allowed to take in the scenery. Dim lighting, gold skulls on the wall, chandeliers.. It's intimate and seductive for sure. It's a tiny little space with a long bar. Minimal standing room so I definitely recommending trying to get a table. I'm always a little sketched out when drink menus don't list prices. We're ordered 3 drinks which I'm pretty sure we're about $15 each. They were each delicious, but had I known the prices, I may have ordered differently. I loved the setting here and will definitely be back with a small group of friends-- definitely would not be easy to accommodate more than 4 people in a single party. read more

Noble Experiment - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Such an incredible experience. Very friendly staff, great menu, unparalleled vibe! Could go here every day

The. Most. Amazing. Cocktails. EVER. The bartenders are brilliant and make the most incredible drinks. My husband and I came here while we were in SD for our anniversary and while we knew it was going to be good based on recommendations and other Yelp reviews, it was even better than expected. The ambiance is dark, cozy, and really cool. Love the decor and how intimate it is. It really does feel like a true speakeasy. We ordered two drinks off the menu and two that were "dealer's choice." The bartender asked for our spirit of choice and flavor profile, and whipped up two out-of-this-world cocktails. Pricey and you'll definitely want a reservation in advance, but it's totally worth it for the experience and quality of the drinks. read more

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This place DID NOT disappoint! The sexy atmosphere and amazing craft cocktails are just the beginning. The service was stellar, and the menu was intriguing. I tried multiple drinks, including the 'dealer's choice', which I highly recommend! I'm already looking forward to the next time I'm going. If you email them, they are very receptive! Shannon was great! read more

Noble Experiment has long been a favorite of mine. The skull wall is iconic and when you're inside, it feels like the world outside doesn't exist. That probably sounds weird, but I mean it in the best way! The entrance used to be accessed through Neighborhood and it was always fun to see people leaning against the keg wall waiting to use the restroom ;) There's been some remodeling taking place and now the entrance is on the other side (8th street I wanna say?), but still just as fun. I highly suggest making a reservation. It fills up quickly and better to be safe. Even with reservations, we've usually had to wait 15-35 mins to get in, so be smart! Now for the cocktails. I've had my fair share of cocktails over the years and I can say with absolute certainty that NE makes the best cocktails of all time. They do have a menu to choose from, but I recommend telling the bartenders what you like - they rock at choosing for you. They ask a few questions to gauge your palette and then present you with something truly divine. The ones we've gotten have ranged in price from $12-15 and are worth every penny. It's a must-try spot! read more

Hidden away inside Neighborhood restaurant (which is closed for renovations currently) lies Noble Experiment, a curated, dimly lit, evocative cocktail experience. We arrived early for our 6pm reservation (they open at 6) and located what we figured was the entrance (it's not marked from the outside, but we noticed a host stand inside the door, which they pulled outside right at 6pm). We started the line and were checked in by the host and brought inside. Once inside, you walk through an empty kitchen area to a large area of "kegs" which is actually the secret door. Once you push the door, you entire the dark hallway that leads inside to the bar. On the left side, you immediately notice the expansive wall of golden skulls, shimmering a bit in the dark, and on the right is the bar. Looking up you'll find artwork on the ceiling along with chandeliers. We got a great table (FYI, there are not a lot of tables, so reservations are a MUST!) and our server, Shannon, greeted us immediately. She congratulated us on our honeymoon and proceeded to explain how the menu works - there are traditional cocktail, then the "noble" version of that cocktail, and then there's the dealers choice, where you can get a customized creation of your own. While we perused the menu by candlelight, Shannon returned with two glasses of champagne for us, which was so kind of them to offer. We decided, we had to go with the Dealer's Choice, to really get the full experience. You tell them what base you want (we did bourbon and rum respectively) and then they ask you a few questions and then your customized cocktail is created. My custom cocktail was one of the best I've ever had, and exactly the kind of drink I would have picked off a menu. Since we wanted to stay a bit longer, we decided to order one more drink to share and decided on the Surfer Rosa, which is a more tropical option. We were absolutely thrilled with our experience, and cannot wait to have an opportunity to visit again! read more

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Outstanding. As I have reviewed for other speakeasy type places, they are best done solo or as a couple. This is not the type of place to go with a group as you just dilute the experience. There is no menu - you interact with your mixologist and they'll craft something based on your mood or specific liquor likes. The entire staff is great and attentive - and I was impressed with their instinct - I presented my "challenge" for 2 drinks and they nailed it on both instances. Danny was great behind the bar and made the visit perfect. Cool space also - tucked behind the neighboring restaurant - you push the wall of aluminum kegs by the restrooms to get in - and the room is very funky with a wall of skulls and big old framed paintings on the ceiling. Very memorable and worth the trip! read more

Fantastic! Our group had 2 non-alcoholics and 3 alcoholics and we all loved the drinks! I like the no menu concept. My friend and I love Old Fashions and we had 2 that were unique and excellent. Highly recommend. Get there around 5:45PM if you don't have a reservation to be one of the first to get in. read more

The best part of noble experiment are the bartenders and bar managers that guide you through this process. This is definitely a spot you want to hit up for any occasion. They make some pretty great craft cocktails for following YouTube videos (lol-bar manager would understand). Can't wait to go back and have another round. read more

Tony, the lead bartender, was absolutely amazing. Opt for the dealer's choice, where you request the bartender make you an off the menu drink of their design, guided - if you wish - by your flavor requests. I made the following flavor requests below and was delighted each time: - "Rose and lavender, served up" (He created a delightful floral concoction, using both ingredients) - "Something whiskey based" (He wowed with my favorite cocktail of the night - rose sour with vanilla liqueur) - "Anything, based off of what you know of my profile" (He did a twist on a drink created at the Atta Boy speakeasy in New York, called Silver Fox) - "Something for dessert" (Thai tea cocktail served in a lovely goblet) Throughout the experience, Tony also shared many cocktail making tips and stories of his journey into becoming the craft bartender he is today. His passion for the role and skill in catering to, delighting, and surprising his guests are impressive and has solidly earned Nobel Experiments on my list of favorite speakeasies. Also, the interior design fit my tastes to a tee. A wall of thousands of skulls, a grand chandelier, Victorian era portraits on the ceiling...I cannot see myself revisiting San Diego without making an essential stop for a night here. read more

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Tip: Make a reservation ahead of time since it's extremely small (I think max out at 30). On the weekends, you can wait up to 2 hours if you don't have reservation. How to get into Noble? Well... if I tell you then it wouldn't be fun anymore right? JK. Noble is inside a bar called Neighborhood. Once you enter the bar, go to the bathroom (another speakeasy with an entrance next to the bathroom) and you're see a stack of keg. Push those stack of keg... be careful not to drop any of it while you push it! FYI - those keg sure looks real, but they're not. Noble had me at hello when I took the first sip of the special handcrafted old fashion. The old fashion is one of the best I've ever had. It's very stiff, yet extremely well balanced with sweet, sour and smokiness. The sugar syrup used (instead of the sugar cubes) was also a house made special. Stop-by to have a drink or two next time you're in San Diego, CA. read more

Noble Experiment - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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This place is unique, a very cool speak easy. The drinks were really good! My only complaint was the bartender made an extra drink that I didn't order and he charged me for it. When I asked about it, he shrugged his shoulders and left. read more

I've been to Noble Experiment about 30 times and it's always a pleasure drinking absolutely amazing cocktails. I always go online to get a reservation about a week in advance because it fills up really fast. Sometimes, I'll have a drink at Neighborhood before going to Noble, since they have a really good beer selection. I always get a kick out of going through the false keg door and going into the dark magical waiting room. Then, walking into the actual bar is pretty awesome with the wall full of gold skulls, the paintings on the ceiling, and the screens with the deer winking at me. If the Haunted Mansion had a bar, it would look a lot like this. The drink menu changes sporadically and there's always a drink for someone... and if you can't find a drink for your self you can always get the dealer's choice. Among the many drinks I've had here, the Army Navy (citrusy) and Penicillin (sweet smoky scotch) were the best drinks by far! This bar has very limited seating, so get a reservation ASAP. I've never had a bad drink here and if it is bad, they'll just re-make another for you. This is a perfect place for a date or showing off to your tourist friends. Great speakeasy! 5 stars! read more

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