Appreciate the effort, but they are trying too hard and just didn't work for me. Crammed tables and a bit gimmicky. Food is not special. Very average. We got our drinks as we were almost finished with appetizers. Drinks are overpriced. Here's a picture of a $20 old-fashioned before I had a sip. About a quarter inch of actual alcohol in here after I took the giant ice cube out. Waiter did his best to overcome the shortcomings. read more

Rare Books Bar - $20 old-fashioned before I took one sip. - Speakeasies Near Me - Frisco, Texas

Aloha, Tiki Tuesday! What a fun way to spend a Tuesday evening! The tropical cocktails helped us feel as though we were transported to the islands. They were not only beautifully crafted but absolutely delicious--each sip had us dreaming of swaying palm trees, ocean breezes, and a Hawaiian getaway. We loved both the Mai Tais and the Beachy Bookkeeper! We decided to share a few appetizers. The Meatballs al Forno was my favorite...packed with flavor and perfect for enjoying with friends over drinks. The Heirloom Tomato Burrata was okay however, the tomatoes didn't seem ripe and were hard and chewy. The Lobster in a Jar was tasty - on the pricey side if you ask me though... One of my favorite things about this spot is the ambiance. The lighting is low (and by low I am flat out dark where you almost can't see your hand in front of your face), creating a dark, cozy, and intimate atmosphere that makes it easy to relax and unwind after a long day. Whether you're catching up with friends, enjoying a date night, or simply looking for a place to escape for a few hours, the vibe here is spot on. The service was fantastic as well. Everyone was friendly, attentive, and made sure we had everything we needed, which only added to the experience. Tiki Tuesday has officially become one of my favorite weekly traditions. Great drinks, delicious appetizers, wonderful service, and a cozy atmosphere--what more could you ask for? I'll definitely be back next Tuesday for another little island escape. Where's my grass skirt and coconut bra??? Mahalo for a great evening! read more

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We came here in a week night with reservations though they were not needed. The place was hopping with live music byt not full by any means. Walk in via J Theodore, the ohone booth is to the left. It's a cool novelty calling with a book name to enter via the book shelf. Once inside the speak easy area there were two seating options. The Library which is set away from the open lounge area and quieter or the lounge area with the bar. They would not let us pick our spot despite seating being available. We opted for the lounge area as the seat offered to us there was better to our preference. The tables are packed quiet tightly which i dont like personally but i get it. That tidbit aside it is definitely a cool environment. Service was really nice and the food we ordered was great. I presume it's the same menu as J Theodore so I'm going to have to try that now for a more restaurant style meal. This is a cool place to hang out and bring friends imo. Since we don't really drink we'll probably end up at the restaurant next time as it's not easy to eat on tiny tables. It's a bar/lounge after all. read more

I'm going to be consistent with a 4 star but so easily could have been a 5 star. I put in a reservation for 6 ppl but respectfully called in to tell them that 1 person was joining. Instead of continuing with a 5 top they put us at a 4 top and expected us to squash in. Well this was a birthday celebration and we didn't want to be uncomfortable. I asked for a chair to be put on the side of the table even if it was tight. It took me asking 3 times. Not sure what the host didn't understand the first time as he just stood at the podium doing nothing. Secondly, this is a speak easy. The door to the entrance should have been closed and opened upon phone call entry. It's what makes the presentation. It was wide open, so no point in the phone booth. Again, an issue with the host bar. Other than that, our server was a beautiful long haired/blue eye girl who was so attentive. She made some recommendations I appreciated. The food was amazing! We all shared the portobello tacos, steak frites with sweet potato truffle fries, Brussels sprouts, Asian tuna salad, and ended with the Kahlua cake. It was all fabulous. And whomever they had as entertainment on 2/21 was incredible. Great voice. Ambiance is why I've come in the past and why I'll come again. I just hope this situation with reservations won't happen again, otherwise that will be my last time. At this age we come to enjoy a place not get squashed like sardines. read more

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So we didn't get the speak easy entrance... the hostess at the restaurant just pointed at the door by the book case so that was a bummer. We also got seated right by the live music which if you were there to listen to it, that was great but for us we barely got to have a conversation. Drinks are strong. Vibe is cool but I wish they put us near the library and it was more focused on the book vibe. read more

Great live music, food, atmosphere, service, and it's highly recommended to get a reservation. read more

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We decided to try something new and were intrigued by this speakeasy, so we made a reservation for a Saturday evening and found the password on their website. We really enjoyed their library theme! From the menus to the secret bookshelf entrance and the bar itself. It was a well-thought-out and executed idea! The bar had a chill, laid-back vibe, which we enjoyed, along with their massive selection of whiskeys. We decided to go with tequila though, so we ordered a Paloma and The Escape, along with their truffle Parmesan fries. The drinks were excellent and arrived very quickly, but after that, our waiter started bartending, so it took about half an hour for him to return and take our dinner orders. Other than that, everything was great. Once we placed our order, the food arrived quickly, and we were thoroughly pleased with our life choices. Oh, and the live music was a nice touch! It got crowded quickly, so I recommend arriving before the dinner rush and placing a reservation beforehand. Looking forward to our next visit! read more

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The service here is great. They are on it. Ordering food and drinks was fast. Drinks cane right out. Food followed. The inside is great. Nice bar area and the few seats at tables keeps it quite nice inside. The prices are not bad. I will be back for sure. read more

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Amazing drinks, atmosphere, and staff. Everything was delicious and the servers were lovely and had great recommendations. Can't wait to come back. read more

Great place to stop by for dessert and a nightcap! Music is hit or miss depending on the band but the vibe is relaxed and drink menu is extensive (especially for whiskey fans)! Tried the espresso martini this time and it was fabulous! The cakes are all yummy, but slices are huge so def keep that in mind. My husband tried the chocolate mousse this time and it was delicious!! Just FYI-Password to get in is posted on their social media! read more

Rare Books Bar - The most delicious espresso martini - Speakeasies Near Me - Frisco, Texas

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The speakeasy experience is a lot of fun as long as you don't expect outstanding food and service. b the food and service wasn't bad, it just wasn't great. I expected more from somewhere associated with such a wonderful restaurant. Next time we just won't eat there. Drinks were great! read more

Concept is fantastic but its not a true private upscale speakeasy because they are disorganized and let too many really drunk people in and they smash into everyone trying to enjoy speaking, easy relax, and the music vibe. I was so embarrassed for them I left with my friend to help lessen the chaos. read more

It started with a fun secret entrance and was all uphill from there! We were warmly greeted by the hostess and seated in a small room filled with books. Our server, Jayden, was the highlight of the evening even considering a very high bar set by the cocktails and food. He was friendly, efficient and just the right amount of care. He went out of his way to make sure our evening was a pleasant one. I found the cocktail and food prices to be very much in line! If I lived in Dallas I would be a regular there and would certainly ask to seated with Jayden every time! read more

This place is super cute and getting in is so fun. You gain entrance by going into the Theodore restaurant and walking to the phone booth. Luckily for me the door was not wide open like others have written in other reviews. Once in our waiter Jaden was very attentive and provided great recommendations. Everything was very tasty and the drinks were great. My husband ordered a whiskey flight that I actually enjoyed. Ambience is cozy. I went when there wasn't a performer and it was nice and quiet. No kids ofc, which added to the relaxing atmosphere. read more

SO FUN! I found this place for our date night & it did not disappoint! Climbing into the phone book & relayi g the secret book title* to enter was fun & surprising my hubby as the library wall slid open was a treat. We chose a high top table near the bar so we'd be able to enjoy the live music later that evening. The Whiskey, Scott & Tequila menus are vast! I don't enjoy any of those & was delighted by their special drinks menu as well. We started with a Scotch Flight for him, a Hick Fin for me & the Bacon & Eggs to share. The service was sublime, thank you Kris! He made great food & drink suggestions & neve rushed us. He was kind & joyful which were delightful. For our mains we chose the Korean Steak Tacos for him & the Spicy Shrimp & Bacon Flatbread w/no cheese for me. Both were tasty & a great portion. The Flatbread itselft was more crispy than I normally like, not soft but had decent flavor. The bacon & avocado were plentiful and the shrimp were tasty! The Tacos were okay. The tortillas didn't taste freshly made, but we're fine & the meat was flavorful. Not sure he'd order it again he said. Waiting for the live music we both ordered one more drink as "dessert". I enjoyed the Brown Sugar Bourbon Espresso Martini & my hubby enjoyed his Colombian Old Fashioned. We stayed for a while longer & enjoyed the live music. We would definitely come back! The ambiance, service, drinks & live music were stellar. The food was good, not amazing, but we'd both try something different next time. *check their social pages for the secret book of the week read more

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Love this place! A speakeasy bar with books and good drinks. It gets filled quickly and is first come first serve so be prepared for that, but a great place to hangout with friends or a date. I tried their Negroni and loved it. The drinks here are really good! read more

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What a blast! Great after dinner spot for you and bae, you and your girls/boys, you and yours truly...doesn't matter....this would be fun for just about whoever! Get there early so you can grab a seat! Some of the best live music performances you've seen...why pay $80 for lawn seats at dos Equis when you're front and center here?! The drinks are nothing to play with. Well balanced craft cocktails...endless choices. Don't let the price tag of the shots discourage you for they come with a mega punch!! Try them! I digress. This place is awesome. Get there early and be ready to have an enjoyable evening! read more

Rare Books Bar - Le madeline royale -$16 and an unknown delicious $20 shot! - Speakeasies Near Me - Frisco, Texas

Check their IG or website for the password Enter through the restaurant and use the phone booth to call and they'll ask for what book you want to check out today. HUGE selection of whiskeys, bourbons, scotch Can't go wrong with a dirty martini and their blue cheese olives Presentation is beautiful. Vibes are cute. Small parties only. And apparently they also take reservations. I didn't get to see the WHOLE bar as it was closed off for a private event, but cute space. read more

I have been here twice, both with reservations. The staff are fairly rude but the worse part is where and how they seat people. We made a reservation, two weeks in advance and stated in the "occasion" box that it was our anniversary. They sat us at 2 seats at the bar that shouldn't even be seats, in front me I don't even have enough space to put a plate down since it's full of the bars garnishes. The previous time they placed us inches from the bathroom, all we could smell was the Clorox spray. Decent place if you get a seat but it's clear they are trying to cram everyone in to every place and don't really care of you have a problem with it. Several groups left that night because of the seating. read more

Rare Books Bar - This was my seat. - Speakeasies Near Me - Frisco, Texas

Absolutely loved the experience at speakeasy! It gets busy and bustling though, however the drinks are amazing! read more

Rare Books Bar - Speakeasies Near Me - Frisco, Texas

I loved my experience here. Jesus was so much fun and he made the experience so much more memorable. Highly Recommend read more

Rare Books Bar - Speakeasies Near Me - Frisco, Texas

I've been here before a couple times and was always great. The ambience was great. Guy playing guitar and singing was on point. I was there again a few days ago and took exceptionally long time for server to come by. I had to waive my hand to get attention after extended wait. We order drinks and service was so slow I asked for check when got the first drinks. Server charged me 64 for menu price 30 dollar drink. He said oh it's a new menu and I'll comp that for you. Then comes back and charges me 34 which was still higher than menu price. Bad service evening 7/3. If wasn't for ambience and great music I'd rated a 2 Star. read more

Rare Books Bar - Speakeasies Near Me - Frisco, Texas

Great service! The vibe is amazing with the live music and get a Creamsicle Drink from May! Not on menu but a MUST HAVE!

I LOVE THIS PLACE! This speakeasy is such a cute idea - the library theme is so fun! They regularly have live music, and due to the size of the space, it feels really cozy and intimate. I love how they break up their (extensive) cocktail menu by liquors so you can focus on the drinks you'll enjoy rather than looking at every description. If you want to order food, you can look at and order from the J Theodore menu, which has everything from appetizers to slices of cake! The service is generally pretty consistent and it's not too loud that you can't hold a conversation inside the bar. The only downside is that it can get pretty busy, and tables don't flip quickly due to the live music and more relaxed nature of the establishment. Expect a 1.5+ hour wait on Fri/Sat nights. read more

Rare Books Bar - Speakeasies Near Me - Frisco, Texas

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Last night, we went to Rare Books to celebrate our friend's birthday, there were 11 of us. While waiting for everyone to arrive, three of us were at the bar. My friend and I each had one martini, and the third person had one martini and a beer. Later, we decided to step over to the patio at J. Theodor to listen to the live musician. Probably not the best choice since there was hardly any room to stand. I'm currently wearing a medical boot, so I had to sit, and yes, my walk may have looked a bit shaky, but that comes with the boot, not intoxication. When we came back inside, our waitress informed us that the three of us, and a fourth friend who walked in at the same time, were being cut off for intoxication. The fourth person hadn't even had a drink. We spoke with the manager, and while I understand it's their right to make that call, I genuinely feel the situation was handled poorly. In my opinion, the real issue may have been that our group was a bit loud--understandable with 11 girls at a birthday celebration. The manager should have addressed it directly instead of sending the waitress, who did attempt to ask us to keep it down but wasn't very clear or confident. A direct, professional conversation would have gone much further. This isn't my first time at Rare Books. The speakeasy atmosphere is really nice, and the food is ok, though not exceptional. And honestly, at $20 per martini, maybe they did us a favor! I just hope they're consistent in how they decide to cut people off, because I'm sure plenty of guests consume far more than we did. Maybe the suburbs just aren't ready for Dallas girls. And unfortunately, the service was not super great either. I guess they didn't want me to drink water either since they didn't refill my water glass. Either way, we still had a fun night. It's just disappointing that the situation was managed in a way that left me being labeled as intoxicated when I wasn't. Which is pretty funny since I'm not even much of a drinker. And the silver lining is that we didn't get kicked out and were able to celebrate our friend's birthday! read more

Super cool speak ez - go to the telephone booth, they're supposed to ask you for the password which you can find from their IG or someone at the front will tell you. Door opens and there you'll find a cozy warm bar space perfect for really any situation. Drink selection/bartenders are nice, pricey but you're paying for the experience (and Frisco tax lol). read more

So freaking cute and busy! I love a busy bar. The set up is so much fun, and it's very easy to access and find the speakeasy. I 100% recommend the drinks and food. I loved every moment spent here. read more

If you're looking for great drinks, good food and chill vibes, then this spot is far better than the "red" speakeasy spot, which many talk about at Grandscape. For one, the cigars are missing, unless of course thats what you're really looking for, but I digress.... This spot has a well stocked bar and the bartenders are worth their weight in gold. I've visited several times and have yet to have a bad drink. Their live music artists are hit or miss... keeping in mind that the main seating area is small. So, be sure to check the artist lineup before planning your perfect night out. If you're looking for great appetizers, then don't leave without trying the Bacon and Eggs (deviled eggs, with candied bacon) and the Jar of lobster. Both are packed with flavor. The chicken and jalapeño flatbread as well as the pork chop were both decent entrees. The servers also do a good job of keeping the drinks coming and can offer drink recommendations. Oh and if you need a pick me up, try the expresso Martini.... Very very smooth read more

Rare Books Bar - Pork chop... overcooked the first time but was remade and far better - Speakeasies Near Me - Frisco, Texas

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First, how can you beat a speakeasy? It's the epitome of fun, adventure, and secrecy for an adult night out. Second, absolutely stunning and well kept. It was small enough to feel intimate but large enough to feel like you had space and weren't cramped together with others. The drinks were delicious and I was able to make changes to my salad to make it vegan and the waitress was very accommodating to make sure it would be addressed and my dietary needs met. She was so sweet! The cherry on top was the live music of a gentleman singing classic songs- jazzy, classy, and elegant. This is the place to bring someone to impress them with your taste. read more

Pricey drinks but they are always well made. The vibe depends on the night and the waiter. The bread is delicious and so are the Brussel sprouts read more

Came here on a recommendation from an industry friend and hoping to give it another shot, but disappointed in the first experience. Service was VERY slow for our table of 2 on a Saturday night reservation. Drinks took much too long to arrive and then arrived with the incorrect drink order. After a disagreement with the server about what should/shouldn't be in a drink compared to what the menu says, the drink was replaced and removed from the bill. Appetizers left a lot to be desired (flavorless and no attempt at presentation) however, the entrees were delicious! Additionally the Speakeasy concept is really cool. Great Whiskey selection and cool vibe in the bar. The manager was aware of the initial service issues and provided a discount on the bill which was much appreciated. Looking forward to giving them a second chance! read more

What a great unique place! It's connected to a restaurant, we ate at the restaurant after we made our reservation through the phone booth and received our wait time! The food was above average but the ambiance is really what gives this place 5 stars! There was live music, dark environment, and fancy delicious drinks! Hopefully my videos and pics do it justice but I am definitely going back because this place is just too "Me" not to go back! I'd say it's definitely worth going at least once and the price isn't bad actually! Ok now bye bye then! read more

Rare Books Bar - a glass of red wine - Speakeasies Near Me - Frisco, Texas

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As a lover of books and Libraries, the concept of this bar was almost a dream come true. Ive had this place saved for a long time and I finally was able to visit it on 7/17/25, excited to hear the live performance and enjoy my time. I came alone and sat at the bar, and was completely ignored by the bar tender for a good 10 mins. No acknowledgement of my presence, no "i'll be right with you", no greeting, no eye contact, nothing. There was 3 other people at the bar who eventually left, then I was the only one left. Even being the only one at the bar, I was still ignored. I eventually left and took my business elsewhere. I gave 2 stars instead of 0 because of the concept and live performance. read more

Very nice speakeasy in Frisco. I was pleasantly suprised by this place. You will need the password to get in. The atmosphere is very laid back and cozy which is very much appreciated. They have live music (maybe depending on day) we came on a Saturday night and they had a great guy performing. I had the mezy-coco and I definitely recommend. Super subtle and delicious. Customer service was top notch. Can't wait to come back! read more

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May was so awesome while taking care of us tonight. Great experience, fast and very hospitable service, and wonderful food, drinks, and ambiance. Thank you May for the wonderful experience!!! You'll see us again read more

Rare Books has become our favorite date night spot, and it's an absolute delight! Our initial visit here was entirely serendipitous. We wanted to try J Theodore because we learned that they have the cakes from the now closed Bonnie Ruth's (best carrot cake ever)! We showed up without a reservation, but they had no open tables and suggested we try their speak easy. My husband's eyes lit up when they told him to go to the phone booth and then a secret sliding door opened. Inside felt just magical, particularly the first time. We were there on a Wednesday and the live music was Sinatra/Rat Pack style. The singer has great stage presence and loves to interact with the crowd in a fun way. Their smoked old fashioned is one of the best in town. The espresso martini was another favorite. They serve the complete menu from J Theodore and food is great. read more

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I've been to the rare books bar twice now and it's always been a great experience. This cool speak easy (check their insta for the daily code) is hidden behind a bookshelf in another restaurant. Lift the receiver on the phone booth and as the librarian for the correct book. The ambiance is amazing. Very classy and perfect for a date night. The food and drinks are incredible. Especially their smoked old fashioned's read more

I was looking forward to trying this place because I have already been to the J. Theodore and it's nice to think we have a speakeasy local in Frisco. I was disappointed because it didn't feel very speakeasy-ish at all. We obtained the password before arriving. Once we arrived, there were a few people in front of us who had already asked to go in and we were just told to go ahead and follow them. We went through a pretty large service door that was already open with a giant Christmas tree leading to the space l. There was nothing that really created illusion you were swept into into another place, especially since they kept that door open the entire time. The tables are really tight, city style, so be prepared to be close to your neighbors. We sat at the bar and the barstools are unusually short. Not a huge deal but something we noted. I got the Mexican 75 which was slightly sweet, but it was boozy and tasty. I had had no complaints. The bartenders were really nice and accommodating. I ended up getting the Korean beef tacos and they were able to make two of the three as a lettuce wrap and the last one with a regular tortilla. The beef is a little bit greasy, but other than that it tasted fine. Since I switched two of the tacos to lettuce wraps, there was no flour tortilla to soak up the grease from the beef, which is probably why I experienced that. It came with an elote salad, which didn't have a ton of flavor. Hubby had the prime sandwich which was tasty and the horseradish sauce had a nice flavor to it. If we came back, it would just be to the J. Theodore since the menu and the drinks are the same. read more

Rare Books Bar - Korean beef tacos and Mexican 75 - Speakeasies Near Me - Frisco, Texas

I would think twice before eating here. I called ahead for allergy information and they didn't even know what they were putting in their food. With or without allergies, that's a red flag... read more

Stopped back in last night to rare books bar, had a great time. My friend ordered a really cool drink that came with a whole presentation. They had an amazing Duo setup and had great music. We order the lobster in the jar, meatballs and the social dips. All delicious. read more