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Secret Unlocked
Old Town Alexandria’s six hidden speakeasies…
Not just “cute bar with dim lighting.”
I mean actual blink-and-you’ll-miss-it, behind-an-unmarked-door, you-need-to-go-immediately kind of places.
Because knowing where to live is important. Knowing where to slip behind the velvet curtain? Equally essential.
Alice Comfort Cocktail | 724 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Step through the looking glass and land in a Wonderland-inspired hideaway tucked into Old Town’s heartbeat. Whimsical, colorful, and just unhinged enough in the best way. Expect inventive cocktails, playful presentation, and a vibe that feels like a secret tea party that upgraded to martinis.
Bar 86 | 215 S Union St
Nestled in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, the historic brick walls of 215 S Union St have long been a sanctuary for those seeking the warm, buttery aroma of freshly made crepes and the rich, comforting embrace of expertly brewed coffee. This is Café du Soleil, a beloved daytime institution founded on a passion for genuine French-inspired hospitality and community. But as the sun sets and the last espresso cup is cleared, a transformation begins. The familiar café gives way to Bar 86, a hidden world where the spirit of adventure is poured into every glass. Born from the Prohibition-era lore of Chumley’s Bar at 86 Bedford Street, Bar 86 reimagines speakeasy culture with a modern twist. The door is unmarked for a reason. The best stories always are.
Captain Gregory’s | 804 N Henry St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Named the Best Speakeasy in Virginia by Chowhound.com! In Alexandria’s Old West neighborhood, you’ll find what looks like a travel agency — but if you head inside and tug on the flag, you’ll end up in Captain Gregory’s, a nautical-themed, award-winning speakeasy. The cocktail menu is tight but expertly curated, offering drinks like Jaws of the Python, Queen Anne’s Revenge, and Phantoms of Tide that appeal to both land and sea lovers. Reservations aren’t required, but are highly recommended.
Casa Luna | 300 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Hidden speakeasy hidden below Kisso Asian Bistro serving craft cocktails. Immerse yourself in the romantic ambiance, sink into plush leather booths, and sip on exquisite cocktails that will ignite the sparks between you and your special someone.
King’s Ransom | 728 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314 – Enter through our side door.
To experience King’s Ransom is to go on a journey with our talented and passionate makers, who have been given free rein to wander globally in pursuit of their craft. Design elements like our slightly raised bar, lighting, and layout are intended to make our cocktails, and the artisans that make them, the focal point of our guests’ experience. We believe in building on the history of Old Town and guiding it into the new age. With King’s Ransom, we wanted to do this by creating a place of casual luxury and sophistication, embracing dark colors and elegance, with just enough edge to keep things interesting.
Francis Hall | 699 Prince St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Sip Perfectly Crafted Cocktails Hiding in Plain Site. Hidden beyond the gentle bustle of our lobby, the always warm and welcoming Francis Hall reveals itself as a sanctuary for unhurried conversations and perfectly crafted cocktails. This luxe yet intimate space with its dramatic tented ceiling, warm jewel tones, and low amber lighting has become what locals lovingly call “Alexandria’s living room.” Pull up a spot at the burnished brass bar for some of the best handcrafted cocktails in Old Town Alexandria and the DMV. Settle in at our velvet banquettes or rich leather seats to catch up with friends while a mix of funk and hip hop or chill jazzy tunes fill the air.
Bonus – Not really a speakeasy, but feels like one!
The Study Bar at Morrison House | 116 South Alfred St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Cleverly Crafted Cocktails & Authored Mesoamerican Fare. Our menu has featured cultures whose culinary influence traveled around the world through trade routes leading them to the Mesoamerican region. Every ingredient and technique has been carefully curated and like most things at Morrison House, tells a story. Grab your favorite sip and savor attentive service, a luxe atmosphere, and live entertainment at The Study.
Please let me know which ones you are going to go visit, and if tell me if I’ve left off any of your favorites!
I’m Miriam Miller, your Alexandria Realtor sharing the best secrets in Old Town.
