The Hidden Speakeasy In Nebraska That Will Transport You To Another Era
By Delana Lefevers|Published January 30, 2018
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Delana Lefevers
Author
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
During the Prohibition era, it wasn’t too difficult to find establishments that were still serving the prohibited alcoholic beverages…if you knew where to look. They were called speakeasies, a name which referred to the need to speak quietly inside to avoid detection by the authorities. Prohibition-style speakeasies have become increasingly popular in the past couple of decades, including in Nebraska, and this one in Lincoln is one of our favorites.
If you can find The Other Room in Lincoln's Haymarket district, you'll notice a light above the heavy door. If it's green, there's space inside. If it's red, you're in for a wait.
Either way, knock on the door. There's a strict limit of 25 people inside the tiny 400-square-foot bar at one time, so you have a better chance of getting in quickly with just a couple of people than with a whole party.
Inside, a master mixologist will be waiting to prepare you an expertly crafted drink. Take your time and peruse the menu carefully; there are a lot of terrific choices.
These thoughtfully created drinks have some of the most imaginative flavor combinations you'll ever taste. There are some menu staples available permanently, and specials that rotate seasonally.
Many of the special ingredients are created in house, like the bitters being soaked to perfection in this jar. When they're done they'll be used in the bar's amazing cocktails. Or you can buy a bottle to take home for when you want to practice your own mixology skills.
On of the most truly remarkable and endearing parts of The Other Room is the dedication to the speakeasy vibe. The lights are low, patrons are asked to keep conversations quiet, and absolutely no photos are allowed. You can bring your phone, but only if the ringer is off and you only use it for texting. This wall is covered with repurposed neckties that act to dampen the sound, a thoroughly charming detail.
Also in keeping with the Prohibition-era feel, you'll need to bring cash to enjoy the treats at The Other Door. There are no reservations allowed - you simply show up and hope that there's room inside. If not, you'll be asked to wait outside until enough people leave. But don't count on wandering around while you wait for your turn; if you leave, you'll lose your place in line.
This back-alley establishment is more than just a novel throwback. It's a James Beard-nominated bar with a mission: to help people connect in a meaningful way. By doing away with the blaring TVs, ubiquitous cell phones, and loud conversations found in most other bars, The Other Room has created a unique place that you'll never forget.
We won’t spoil the “secret” location, but you can easily find it online; just remember that the entrance is in the back alley. Have you discovered this unique Prohibition-style bar yet? Tell us about your experiences in the comments!
There’s another popular “Speakeasy” in Nebraska which you’ll also have to hunt for – but for a totally different reason. Read all about it here.
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