The 1920s were best known for being the Prohibition era — but as we all know, that doesn’t mean Americans weren’t drinking. While those days are fortunately long gone, speakeasies are still very much a thing, and Southern California has plenty of them. We’re particularly fond of San Diego’s Prohibition Lounge, which features all the fun of sneaking around without the fear of legal ramifications.

Located behind a nondescript door in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, Prohibition Lounge is a sultry speakeasy that opened in 2009.

Prohibition San Diego / Facebook And since then, it’s become one of the city’s best-known secrets.

Step inside the covert entrance (the Law Office door is a nice touch) and prepare to be transported back in time.

Prohibition San Diego / Facebook This place is as authentic as it gets.

The dimly lit space is intimate and romantic, perfect for bringing a date or enjoying quiet conversation with a small group of friends.

Prohibition Lounge / Google This place has received dozens of local awards and accolades and it’s easy to see why.

While 1920s apparel isn’t required, you’re more than welcome to rock it if you’d like — and many do.

Prohibition San Diego / Facebook And while pretty much anything goes during the week, you’ll want to dress up a bit on Fridays and Saturdays (or at least leave the sweatshirts and athletic apparel at home).

The cocktails here are absolutely fantastic, ranging from classic concoctions to creative options.

Prohibition San Diego / Facebook The drinks are meant to channel the Prohibition era. They also rotate seasonally, so you can always count on a fresh selection.

Sometimes you’ll even be treated to live music here.

Prohibition San Diego / Facebook And if you want to throw the best party of your life, you can book the entire place for a private event.

Prohibition lounge is a beloved local treasure deserving of every award it has received.

Prohibition San Diego / Facebook It’s open Sunday through Thursday from 8 pm. to 1:30 a.m. and Friday and Saturday from 7 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Have you been to Prohibition Lounge yet? Check it out the next time you’re in San Diego.

Prohibition San Diego / Facebook

And since then, it’s become one of the city’s best-known secrets.

This place is as authentic as it gets.

Prohibition Lounge / Google

This place has received dozens of local awards and accolades and it’s easy to see why.

And while pretty much anything goes during the week, you’ll want to dress up a bit on Fridays and Saturdays (or at least leave the sweatshirts and athletic apparel at home).

The drinks are meant to channel the Prohibition era. They also rotate seasonally, so you can always count on a fresh selection.

And if you want to throw the best party of your life, you can book the entire place for a private event.

It’s open Sunday through Thursday from 8 pm. to 1:30 a.m. and Friday and Saturday from 7 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

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Address: Prohibition Lounge, 548 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, USA