34 London Road is set to become the latest addition to the Alderley Edge hospitality scene when it opens in the autumn.
The 1920s-themed bar is set to mimic the illicit, hidden bars that arose during the prohibition period in the United States.
During the Prohibition era, the US government banned alcohol. As a result, illegal, hidden speakeasy bars served as a means to continue selling alcohol.
Jazz, booze, and youth culture all flourished in these secretive entertainment venues, although the term speakeasy was actually coined in the early 1820s.
Originally a British phrase, it used to mean “speak softly shop” and described the home of a smuggler. The phrase was eventually changed to “speakeasy shop.”
People went on to use this terminology to describe places where alcohol was sold to the public illegally.
Since they didn’t want to attract attention, especially from the law, the idea was that customers needed to keep the noise down, or “speakeasy.”
To this end, bosses at 34 London Road are staying tight lipped regarding their opening and its exact location – but they have promised all will become clear in the not-too-distant future.
Going off what we know about speakeasy culture, we’re told visitors can expect rules of entry and possibly a hidden entrance.
The aim of speakeasy bars in the 2020s is to get people to care about good cocktails and to see drink-making as an art similar to cooking.
For now, we’re keeping our eyes peeled and our ears pined back for more information.
Building works currently taking place and we’re told the venue could be open in September.
