Speakeasies, the Prohibition-style bars, are as mysterious as they are alluring. They can also be hard to find. If you’re intent on visiting a speakeasy in Illinois, The Drifter is one of a kind and found behind a secret door beneath a tavern in Chicago. Let’s take a look.

The Green Door Tavern was first established in 1921 as a restaurant, its green door indicating that a speakeasy could be found here. Today, the building still has a speakeasy inside.
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Although it has changed over the years, The Drifter now occupies the same space as a previous speakeasy. To find it, you must enter The Green Door Tavern and head downstairs where you'll search for an unmarked wooden door near the restrooms. Just knock on the door and someone should let you in, provided there is no waitlist when you arrive.
The Drifter Chicago/Facebook
The Drifter is dimly lit and small with a capacity for approximately 40 people. The decor of the cozy space will remind you of another era and there is a small stage in the back.
The Drifter Chicago/Facebook

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The cocktail menu is one of the most interesting aspects of this speakeasy. There are over 100 cocktails, each one printed on the back of a Tarot card.
The Drifter Chicago/Facebook
The Drifter staff selects a handful of Tarot cards every night and those are the drinks that will be served. Each time you come here, you can expect a different set of expertly handcrafted cocktail options.
The Drifter Chicago/Facebook
Guests can also enjoy live entertainment Wednesday through Saturday from 7 p.m. until midnight. Whether it's a burlesque show, a contortionist, a magic show, or something else, you'll be amazed at the incredible talent showcased on The Drifter's stage.
The Drifter Chicago/Facebook
There is a per-person cover charge of $6 that will be added to your final bill, but it will be well worth it for the one-of-a-kind experience at this Chicago speakeasy!
The Drifter Chicago/Facebook

Have you discovered this speakeasy in Illinois yet? What are your favorite speakeasies or cocktail lounges around the state? Let us know in the comments. To learn more about The Drifter, visit the official website and follow the Facebook page.

For more speakeasies around Illinois, visit this post.

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