Speakeasies (hidden bars) gained prominence during Prohibition. They were an essential component of nightlife in cities and many small towns. Alcohol may have been illegal but that didn’t stop Americans from drinking. They got creative with hidden passageways and passwords, keeping illicit activity under the radar. When Prohibition was repealed, many speakeasies shut down, no longer being necessary. However, they’ve gained popularity once again, not out of necessity but out of novelty. It’s almost always fun to be in on a secret. New Jersey has several speakeasies but today we’ll focus on one favorite.

Talde is a modern Asian Fusion restaurant with an innovative menu and bright, spacious interior.
Facebook/Talde
Housed in a former police station, the recent addition to the Jersey City dining scene (2015) offers delights like pretzel pork & chive dumplings at dinner, kung pao chicken wings and waffles at brunch, and a full bar.
Facebook/Talde
For the food (pictured is the blue crab fried rice) and atmosphere alone, it's worth a visit. But it also has a very special secret.
Facebook/Talde
There's a dimly lit basement speakeasy that any history buff or booze enthusiast will enjoy.
Facebook/Miss Wong's

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Miss Wong's is an intimate, alluring space with an unmarked entrance. To find it, you'll need to ask a bouncer.
Facebook/Miss Wong's
While alcohol is no longer illicit, your journey to this hidden establishment will surely have you feeling like you're back in the 1920s.
Facebook/Miss Wong's
The atmosphere is unlike anything you'll find above ground. It's sleek but not stuffy, chill but just a bit upscale.
Facebook/Miss Wong's
Miss Wong's offers creative drinks, a small menu, and can even be rented out for private events.
Facebook/Miss Wong's

Have you ever been to Talde? Were you familiar with the basement bar underneath? What’s your favorite speakeasy in New Jersey? To find Miss Wong’s, head to 8 Erie Street in Jersey City. Talde is open daily for dinner and serves brunch on weekends. While they are not open for lunch, they operate as a communal workspace, in partnership with the members-only service, Spacious. For another speakeasy-style establishment in New Jersey, check out Clydz in New Brunswick.

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