7 Speakeasy Bars in Metro Manila to Discover
By: Melecio Martin G. Arranz IV
Speakeasy bars, hidden gems inspired by the Prohibition era, have evolved into immersive nightlife experiences. These clandestine establishments, which first emerged in the 1920s when alcohol was outlawed, offered a secret haven for those seeking a forbidden tipple.
In Metro Manila’s dynamic nightlife scene, the popularity of speakeasy bars is on the rise. According to Google Trends, searches for “speakeasy” in the Philippines have grown steadily over the past year, reflecting the growing curiosity and interest in hidden bar concepts.
Locals and tourists alike are eager to discover unmarked entrances, decipher secret codes, and revel in intricately themed interiors.
For those who crave constant access to Manila’s most exclusive night scenes, living near hotspots like Poblacion or Bonifacio Global City (BGC) offers unparalleled convenience. Consider exploring a condominium in BGC to truly immerse yourself in the heart of this vibrant business district, placing you steps away from some of the city’s most intriguing hidden bars.
7 Speakeasy Bars in Metro Manila to Discover
As you venture into the metro’s hidden nightlife, you’ll discover a selection of speakeasies, each offering its unique charm and an unforgettable experience. Here are some of the best speakeasy bars in Metro Manila.
1. Sari Sari
Location: 5661 Washington St, cor Dela Rosa Street, Makati City
Opening hours: 6 PM–3 AM (Tuesday to Sunday)
Social media: Instagram
Disguised as a humble sari-sari store, this speakeasy in Makati offers a charming twist on the everyday. Beyond the shelves stocked with snacks and household essentials lies a dimly lit, moodily decorated space that surprises guests with its playful, eclectic ambiance.
The bar is known for its inventive cocktails, often featuring local ingredients, and its welcoming atmosphere that seamlessly blends nostalgia with sophistication.
2. INT.Bar / EXT. Café
Location: Cubao Expo, Cubao, Quezon City
Opening hours: 10 AM–12 AM (Sunday to Thursday), 10 AM–12:30 AM (Friday to Saturday)
Social media: Instagram | Facebook
Nestled within the quirky Cubao Expo, INT.Bar / EXT. Café offers a unique duality. By day, it’s a cozy café ideal for Sunday brunch; by night, it transforms into an intimate bar with expertly crafted cocktails and chill R&B music.
This spot makes it a perfect escape from the city buzz, especially for residents of Valencia Hills Tower E, a Federal Land property ideal for families and retirees seeking comfort, privacy, and accessibility in the heart of New Manila.
3. RM-16
Location: 16 East Capitol St., Kapitolyo, Pasig City
Opening hours: 5 PM–2 AM (Wednesday to Saturday)
Social media: Instagram | Facebook
Tucked behind Tittos Latin BBQ and Brew, RM-16 requires patrons to locate a “big red vending machine” to unlock its secrets. Inside, guests enjoy live DJ sets and inventive cocktails such as the Peruvian Sour and Coquito.
For those who appreciate a refined urban lifestyle, The Grand Midori Ortigas—a Federal Land development—offers a Japanese-inspired home with top-tier amenities and easy access to nightlife gems, such as RM-16.
4. The Back Room
Location: Shangri-La at The Fort, 30th Street corner 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
Opening hours: 6 PM–2 AM (Monday to Saturday)
Social media: Website
Discreetly located within the luxurious Shangri-La at The Fort, The Back Room exudes old-world sophistication and is renowned for its extensive gin selection, making it a true paradise for gin aficionados. If you’re navigating the city’s bustling nightlife, it’s helpful to know that this venue is easily accessible via various transportation options.
Be sure to try their signature in-house blend, Bee’s Knees, a unique concoction that perfectly encapsulates the bar’s dedication to refined spirits. It’s a classy destination for those seeking an intimate evening in BGC.
5. Bank Bar
Location: Ground Floor, RCBC Savings Bank Corporate Center, 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig
Opening hours: 5 PM–1 AM (Tuesday to Saturday)
Social media: Facebook
Step into Bank Bar, a hidden gem subtly tucked away behind a convenience store. The bar boasts impressive high ceilings that create an airy, expansive feel, complemented by plush interiors that invite you to settle in and unwind.
Bank Bar is renowned for its expertly crafted cocktails, meticulously mixed with precision and creativity, making it a go-to destination for discerning drinkers.
Whether you’re looking for a spontaneous nightcap with friends or a stylish setting for a memorable date night, Bank Bar delivers a unique blend of intrigue, elegance, and exceptional drinks. Located in BGC, it’s also conveniently close to several top-rated Japanese restaurants, making it an excellent stop before or after a premium dining experience.
6. OTO
Location: 5883 Enriquez Street, Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City
Opening hours: 11 AM–1 AM (Tuesday to Saturday)
Social media: Facebook
For those who appreciate the perfect harmony of sound and spirits, OTO is your destination. This intimate bar in Poblacion offers a carefully curated playlist that complements its equally thoughtful cocktail menu.
OTO’s laid-back charm fosters an ideal environment for creative conversations to flow freely and for late-night lounging, where you can simply unwind and soak in the good vibes.
7. The Blind Pig
Location: Windsor Tower, 163 Legazpi Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City
Opening hours: 6 PM–2 AM (Daily)
Social media: Website
Known as Manila’s first true speakeasy, The Blind Pig is an ode to secrecy and sophistication. True to its hidden nature, the entrance to The Blind Pig is marked only in Braille, a subtle hint at the exclusive experience within. This no-frills bar offers expertly made cocktails and warm hospitality, drawing inspiration from New York’s legendary Milk & Honey.
Discovering Manila’s Secret Sips
Metro Manila’s speakeasies combine the thrill of hidden discovery with immersive atmospheres and artfully crafted cocktails. From quirky concepts to elevated elegance, each one invites you to experience something truly extraordinary.
Living near these nightlife gems makes spontaneous nights out easier and more enjoyable. Properties like The Grand Midori Ortigas, a Zen sanctuary condo in Pasig, and The Seasons Residences, a Japanese-inspired condo in BGC, place you within easy reach of the metro’s most exciting hidden spots.
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Melecio Martin G. Arranz IV
Digital Marketing Head
Martin is an experienced marketer with over 16 years of experience across various industries including real estate, banking and finance, technology, and advertising.
Martin has a broad range of expertise in having handled campaigns, brand launches, activations both in the traditional and digital space. Currently serving as the Digital Marketing Head at Federal Land, Martin leads a team focused on managing digital sales and platforms for the residential, estates and commercial business units.