This Speakeasy Hidden In An Unmarked Building In Northern California Is Perfect For A Date Night

Step back in time to the Prohibition era at this historic speakeasy in San Francisco. Bourbon & Branch is located in a nondescript building on Jones Street, not far from Union Square. Back in the day, this was a cigar shop. Guests would use a password to enter and then have to request a particular cigar (which was the code), and then be escorted to the underground bar where they could indulge in bootlegged booze. So, if you’re up for a trip back in time, step into the coolest speakeasy in Northern California!

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Still effective today, this speakeasy had five underground entrances, as well as an elaborate warning bell system to alert guests and employees of possible raids.

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When you call to make a reservation, you'll get a password that you must use at the door to get in, just like in Prohibition times.

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The library is open from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., seven days a week. It is here you can sample of the cocktails, but to visit the bar and select from the entire menu, you'll want to make a reservation.

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One of the bar rules is to "speak easy" and not stand by the bar. We also appreciate the "no cell phone use" rule, which helps add to the feeling you've stepped back in time.

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Many of the drinks are made with fresh juices, house-made syrups, and bartender-selected liquors. Try one of the drinks from "The Standards" menu. Some of these classic cocktail recipes date back to the 1800s.

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"Branch water" was considered fresh drinking water collected from a clean stream often referred to as a branch. In the old days, visitors to a speakeasy might order a "bourbon and branch". Consider ordering this simple yet potent drink like people did 100 years ago.

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Perfect for a date or special occasion, this private space is available for 1-4 people at a time.

Every visitor to San Francisco must add Bourbon & Branch, a speakeasy in Northern California, to their list of places to visit. The history, the rare cocktails, and the fun password experience make this bar one you won’t forget. Have you been to this San Francisco speakeasy? Tell us in the comments!

Spending some time in San Francisco? Consider an overnight stay at the Kimpton Alton Hotel.