Discovering Secret Speakeasies of the Gulf Coast

Sarasota, with its sun-drenched beaches and laid-back vibe, may seem like the perfect place for an afternoon cocktail in a breezy, open-air bar by the beach. But beneath the surface, this Gulf Coast metropolis holds a secret: a collection of hidden, or speakeasy-style, bars that are as elusive as they are enchanting. 

Tucked away in alleyways, above restaurants or concealed within other business fronts, these spots offer a tantalizing glimpse into the clandestine world of Prohibition-era drinking dens. 

Pangea Alchemy Lab: Sarasota’s Best-Kept Secret

The first rule of Pangea Alchemy Lab? You’ve got to find it. Tucked away off downtown Sarasota's Main Street, this hidden bar is accessible only through a back alleyway door that you’d miss if you blinked. But once you step inside, you’re transported to another world—a world where craft cocktails reign supreme, and disguised creativity is the name of the game.

What Makes Pangea Stand Out:

Craft Cocktails: The mixologists at Pangea are true artists, crafting cocktails that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Each drink is meticulously prepared with house-made syrups, fresh ingredients and a dash of alchemical magic. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Old Fashioned or a whimsical seasonal concoction like the Cat Daddy Flip, Pangea delivers. Oh, and the food menu is top-tier. 
Intimate Atmosphere: The dim lighting, plush seating and eclectic décor create a cozy, intimate setting perfect that seems to transport you to another country—perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic rendezvous. The vibe is cool, dark and just a little bit mysterious—everything a speakeasy should be.
Mystique: Part of the allure of Pangea is the journey to get there. The alleyway entrance adds an air of exclusivity, making every visit feel like a secret adventure. It’s the kind of place where you can’t help but feel like you’re in on something special.

Maya SpeakTiki: A Hidden Haven Above Agave Bandido

Perched above the Agave Bandido Restaurant in Waterside Place, Maya Speak Tiki is a speakeasy that blends the vibrant flavors of Latin America with the chill vibes of an island tiki bar. With its creative cocktails, vibrant decor and secretive atmosphere, Maya Speak Tiki is the perfect spot to escape the ordinary and enjoy a taste of something different after dining on tacos downstairs. Ask about their memberships—we hear they’re worth the price tag.

What Makes Maya SpeakTiki Stand Out:

Hidden in Plain Sight: One of the best things about Maya SpeakTiki is its location. Situated above Agave in downtown Waterside, only your childlike wonder would give its existence away. A staircase hidden behind a false door disguised as a liquor cabinet leads to this “only locals know” hotspot. You just need to know where to look.
Fusion Cocktails: The drinks at Maya are a delightful fusion of classic cocktail and tiki influences, with a menu that features both classic drinks and inventive new creations. Expect bold flavors, fresh ingredients and plenty of rum, tequila and mezcal. Highly recommend trying the bartender's favorites—they do know best after all. 
Cultural Flair: The bar’s exotic décor is a vibrant mix of Latin American and Polynesian influences, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. From the colorful murals and couches to the tiki torches and rattan light fixtures, Maya SpeakTiki is a feast for the senses. 

Bahi Hut Tiki Bar: A Slice of Sarasota History

Nestled within the Golden Host Resort, Bahi Hut Tiki Bar is a Sarasota institution that’s been serving up strong drinks and good times since 1954. So much more than just a hotel bar—it’s a piece of Sarasota’s history and a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a good (strong) tiki drink in a divey setting. With its retro tiki décor, potent cocktails and tropic-grunge vibe, the Bahi Hut is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a slice of offbeat Sarasota and authentic tiki culture.

What Makes Bahi Hut Stand Out:

Historic Charm: The Bahi Hut is one of the oldest tiki bars in Florida, and it hasn’t changed much since it first opened its doors. The bar’s retro décor, complete with tiki statues, bamboo furniture and vintage tiki mugs, transports you back to Old Florida when tiki bars were all the rage.
Strong Drinks: The Bahi Hut is famous for its potent cocktails, particularly the legendary Mai Tai, which has been a signature drink since the bar’s inception. Expect the full tiki treatment here, with frozen drinks served in quirky mugs, garnished with fruit and flowers, packed with rum and almost always absurdly named. If you’re looking for a drink with a kick, this is the place to be. Just be sure to pace yourself—these drinks pack a punch and only two are allowed per guest per sitting—you’ve been warned. 
Weekly Live Entertainment: From upbeat live music from local talent on Friday and Saturday nights to Drag Queen Bingo on Sundays and trivia on Monday nights, there is no shortage of things to do at Bahi Hut—whether a hotel guest, weekend visitor or local. 

Speaks Clam Bar: A Prohibition-Era Experience

While not technically a speakeasy, or as hidden as some of the other bars on this list, Speaks Clam Bar on St. Armands Circle is a nod to the first-ever speakeasies of the Prohibition era. With its throwback décor, themed drinks and a New York-inspired menu served on newspapers printed with headlines from the 1920s, Speaks Clam Bar offers a unique and immersive experience that transports you back to a time when cocktails were outlawed, but the party never stopped.

What Makes Speaks Clam Bar Stand Out:

Prohibition Theme: From the moment you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time to the Roaring Twenties. The bar’s décor is inspired by the gangsters and speakeasies of the era, with dark wood paneling, vintage posters and decor-inspired bar designs that create an intimate, clandestine atmosphere.
Creative Cocktails: The drink menu at Speaks Clam Bar is a nod to the Prohibition era, with cocktails named after famous gangsters and speakeasies. Expect to find classic drinks like the Bee’s Knees and the French 75, as well as modern twists on old favorites like the Kiss Kiss Bang Bang or Lavendar Lexi. 
Themed Dining: The menu, presented on old newspapers featuring Prohibition-era headlines, is filled with delicious Italian seafood dishes—from clams and oysters to homemade pasta.

Dive Cocktail Den: A Hidden Liquor Store Oasis

When it comes to Sarasota’s speakeasies, Dive Cocktail Den takes the concept of “hidden” to a whole new level. Located within the Dive Wine & Spirits (a locally owned liquor store), this unassuming spot is a camouflaged gem that offers some of the best cocktails in town. Conveniently located in the shopping plaza next to Detwiler’s Market near the north entrance of Siesta Key, this out-of-sight spot is sure to pique your interest. 

What Makes Dive Cocktail Den Stand Out:

Unexpected Location: At first glance, Dive looks like your average liquor store. But venture a little further towards the back, and you’ll discover a cozy, almost steampunk-themed bar where expertly crafted cocktails are the order of the day. The contrast between the store’s bright, fluorescent lights and the bar’s dark, intimate atmosphere is all part of the charm. Oh, and the artwork is the crown jewel of the space.
Mixology Magic: The bartenders at Dive are masters of their craft, creating cocktails that are both innovative and delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or a libation that might be a little more adventurous, the menu changes regularly, so there’s always something new to try. See something that caught your eye in the store? They just might have a bottle ready for you to sample behind the bar. 
Laid-Back Vibe: Dive Cocktail Den is the kind of place where you can kick back, relax and enjoy a great drink without any pretension or worrying who's who. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming—making it a favorite among locals who appreciate good drinks, good company and a wide variety of spirits. 

Forbidden Tiki: A Tropical Escape Behind the Scenes

For those who know where to go, Forbidden Tiki offers a majorly concealed escape to a tropical paradise hidden in almost plain sight. Located at the back of Siesta Key Aqua Adventures within a discreet strip mall on U.S. 41, this speakeasy-style tiki bar is the perfect spot to head after a day on the water to simply indulge in a little island magic or ramp up the party with a little karaoke fun. The drinks are strong, the lights are dim, the vibes are mellow and the good times flow freely.

What Makes Forbidden Tiki Stand Out:

Vintage Vibes: From the bamboo décor and vintage Hawaiian artwork to the totems and thatched roofs, Forbidden Tiki is an authentic homage to the classic tiki bars of yesteryear. The atmosphere is laid-back and fun, with a touch of kitsch that makes it all the more charming.
Divey Activities: From singing karaoke covers and playing pool to shooting darts, watching a sports game at the bar or playing cards in the tucked-away nook, there is plenty to keep you occupied at Forbidden Tiki. Oh, and since there is no dining onsite, outside food is allowed.
Secluded Location: The bar’s hidden location adds to its allure and intimacy. Tucked away behind a water sports rental shop, Forbidden Tiki feels like a super-secret oasis that only the coolest cats in town know about. Just watch your step—it’s notorious for keeping the lights down low to hide from “the man”.