For the tourist who wants more than just a theme, The Back Room offers a rare, authentic glimpse into New York City’s past. This is one of only two speakeasies in the city that actually operated during Prohibition and is still in existence today. A visit here isn’t just about having a drink; it’s about stepping into a living piece of history where notorious gangsters once held secret meetings.
The Experience
Finding The Back Room is part of the allure. Make your way to the Lower East Side and look for a gate with a sign that reads “The Lower East Side Toy Company.” Don’t be fooled by the facade. Head through the gate, down an alleyway, and up a flight of stairs to discover the hidden entrance.
Inside, the dimly lit space is adorned with velvet couches, a grand fireplace, and ornate, vintage decor that will transport you straight to the 1920s. Staying true to its roots, cocktails are served in teacups and beers are wrapped in paper bags, just as they were during Prohibition to conceal the illicit beverages from prying eyes. For a truly exclusive experience, look for the revolving bookcase—it leads to a hidden, VIP-only lounge, a room once frequented by infamous mobsters.
A Brief History of The Back Room
The Back Room’s story is deeply woven into the fabric of Lower East Side history and Prohibition-era New York. Established in the early 1920s during the height of Prohibition, this speakeasy became a notorious hub for both high-society figures and organized crime figures seeking refuge from federal agents. The Lower East Side was a natural breeding ground for underground bars—its dense neighborhoods, tight-knit communities, and immigrant populations created the perfect cover for illegal establishments.
What makes The Back Room particularly special is its uninterrupted operation. While countless speakeasies were shut down by federal agents and the Prohibition Bureau, The Back Room survived through clever disguises, strategic locations, and savvy proprietors who understood how to navigate the legal landscape. The toy company facade was no accident—it was a deliberate cover story that helped law enforcement walk past without suspicion.
After Prohibition ended in 1933, The Back Room simply evolved with the times, maintaining its speakeasy aesthetic and traditions as a nod to its glorious past. Today, it stands as one of NYC’s most authentic connections to the city’s wildest decade. The bar has become a living museum, preserving the ambiance and practices of an era when drinking was dangerous, daring, and decidedly illegal.
What to Expect: The Authentic Prohibition Experience
Walking into The Back Room is like stepping into a time machine. The dim lighting—achieved through candles and vintage fixtures rather than bright fluorescents—sets the perfect mood for a speakeasy experience. The walls are decorated with eclectic vintage pieces, framed photographs from the era, and artifacts that tell stories of New York’s underground drinking culture. The intimate booths and velvet seating arrangements encourage conversation and create pockets of privacy, much like the original speakeasy patrons would have valued.
The drink service is where The Back Room truly commits to its historical authenticity. Cocktails arrive in teacups or coffee cups, a practice that served a practical purpose during Prohibition—if federal agents glimpsed what looked like an innocent beverage, they’d move along. Beers come wrapped in brown paper bags, recalling the days when drinking alcohol in public could result in arrest. This attention to detail isn’t just theatrical; it’s a deliberate effort to recreate the furtive nature of Prohibition-era drinking.
The cocktail menu itself pays homage to classic drinks popular during the 1920s. You’ll find prohibition-era favorites alongside modern craft cocktails, all served with the flair and expertise of bartenders who understand the history they’re recreating. Don’t be surprised if the bartender asks you about your preferences rather than simply taking an order—customization and personal attention are part of the Back Room experience. The atmosphere encourages lingering, conversation, and the kind of social interaction that defined speakeasy culture.
Insider Tips and Best Times to Visit
Timing your visit to The Back Room can significantly enhance your experience. While the bar operates year-round, weekday evenings tend to be less crowded than weekends, offering better opportunities to secure a good seat and enjoy more personalized service from the bartenders. If you’re interested in the hidden VIP lounge behind the revolving bookcase, arriving earlier in the evening increases your chances of access, as it’s reserved for particularly valued guests and groups.
First-time visitors should allow extra time to find the entrance—the Lower East Side Toy Company facade is intentionally inconspicuous, and the alleyway entrance maintains that speakeasy mystique. Arrive with a sense of adventure and patience; part of The Back Room’s charm is the hunt. Dress code is generally smart casual; while you don’t need formal wear, The Back Room’s elegant aesthetic benefits from guests who make an effort.
Consider visiting with a small group or a date rather than as a large party. The intimate booth seating and low-key atmosphere aren’t ideal for loud bachelor or bachelorette parties. If you’re a history enthusiast, ask the staff about the bar’s background—many bartenders and servers are knowledgeable about the building’s history and can share fascinating anecdotes. Expect to spend at least two hours here; rushing through defeats the purpose of experiencing authentic speakeasy culture.
How to Visit
The Back Room is a fantastic destination for history buffs, cocktail enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique night out.
- Website: backroomnyc.com
- Address: 102 Norfolk St, New York, NY 10002
- Reservations: The Back Room generally operates on a first-come, first-served basis, especially for smaller groups. It’s always a good idea to check their website for their current hours and any information on private events or live music.
Nearby Attractions and the Lower East Side
The Back Room’s location on Norfolk Street places it in the heart of one of New York City’s most historically significant neighborhoods. The Lower East Side is a vibrant area with endless dining, shopping, and cultural opportunities that complement your speakeasy experience. Just steps away, you’ll find vintage shops, contemporary galleries, and some of the city’s most acclaimed restaurants and bars.
