The Underground Speakeasy

The Underground Speakeasy leans into the whole hidden bar aesthetic that's been trendy for a decade now, but does it well enough you're willing to play along. Located downtown with that deliberately obscure entrance situation, it creates the illusion of discovery even though everyone knows it's there. The Monday through Friday 5-7pm happy hour offers $2 off everything, which sounds modest until you realize their cocktails are properly crafted and the $2 discount applies across the board.

The $2 Off Strategy

$2 off everything means cocktails that normally run $12-15 become $10-13 during happy hour—still not cheap, but more reasonable for drinks made with quality spirits, fresh ingredients, and actual technique. The discount applies to their full menu, so you're not stuck choosing from three designated "happy hour cocktails" while watching others drink what you actually want. Beer and wine get the same discount, making the whole menu accessible at slightly friendlier pricing.

The Speakeasy Vibe

The Underground commits to the theme—dim lighting, intimate seating, vintage-inspired décor, bartenders in vests who take cocktails seriously. You access it through a somewhat hidden entrance (check their website or ask around), which adds to the experience even if it's not actually secret. The space feels removed from downtown's chaos, creating that escape-from-reality atmosphere speakeasies are supposed to provide. Music's usually period-appropriate or at least atmospheric, volume's low enough for conversation.

The Cocktail Program

This is where The Underground justifies its regular pricing and makes the happy hour discount worth chasing. Cocktails are crafted with precision—proper measurements, quality spirits, house-made syrups and bitters, garnishes that serve purpose. The menu includes classic cocktails done correctly plus original creations that show creativity without being weird for weird's sake. Bartenders know their craft and can build you something perfect based on your preferences if the menu's not calling to you.

The Crowd & Atmosphere

Expect cocktail enthusiasts, date night couples seeking atmosphere, industry people who appreciate good drinks, and tourists who found it through research rather than stumbling in. The vibe stays sophisticated without being pretentious—people dress up a bit but it's not formal, conversation stays engaged but not loud, and everyone's there because they actually want to be rather than it being the only option. The intimate space creates natural conversation between groups, especially at the bar.

When It Works

The Underground Speakeasy succeeds as a date spot where you want to impress without the Strip's ridiculous pricing, as a place to actually taste quality cocktails instead of just getting drunk, or as that spot you take visitors to show them Vegas has depth beyond casinos and clubs. The happy hour makes it accessible for more regular visits—you can explore their menu over multiple trips without your bank account staging an intervention.

The Experience Factor

Yeah, the speakeasy concept is played out, but The Underground executes it well enough the theme enhances rather than distracts. The $2 off happy hour gives you access to their quality at prices that feel less like a splurge, and the atmosphere makes drinking feel special instead of routine. It's not trying to be the loudest or cheapest bar downtown—it's offering something different for people who want craft over quantity.