Exploring Bali's Hidden Speakeasies - A Guide to the Island's Secret Nightlife Spots

Bali is famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant beach clubs, and buzzing nightlife, but beyond the usual party hotspots lies a more elusive and intimate world hidden speakeasies. These secret bars, tucked away behind unmarked doors and disguised entrances, offer an exclusive drinking experience that blends mystery, creativity, and top-tier mixology. If you’re looking for a more sophisticated and unique night out in Bali, let’s dive into the island’s best hidden speakeasies and how to find them.

Why Speakeasies Are Taking Over Bali’s Nightlife

In an era where experiential travel is more valued than ever, speakeasies in Bali have become a must-visit for those seeking a personalized and intimate drinking experience. Unlike mainstream bars, these venues are small, exclusive, and incredibly well-designed, often requiring a secret password or hidden entrance to access. They offer a break from the crowds, with expertly crafted cocktails, moody interiors, and immersive themes that transport you to another world.

Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur, a curious traveler, or a nightlife enthusiast, these hidden gems provide an elevated drinking experience like no other.

Top Hidden Speakeasies in Bali and How to Find Them

1. 40 Thieves - Seminyak’s Best Kept Secret

If you're in Seminyak and looking for a New York-style speakeasy, then 40 Thieves is a must-visit. Located above an unassuming ramen shop, this intimate bar is known for its craft cocktails, jazz nights, and moody ambiance. Once inside, you’ll find an elegant setup with a 1920s speakeasy vibe, velvet seating, and low lighting that adds to the mystery.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Expertly curated cocktails with premium spirits

• Live jazz and blues performances on select nights

• Exclusive, intimate atmosphere perfect for date nights or small groups

How to Find It: Look for Mad Ronin Ramen in Seminyak. Enter the restaurant and head up the hidden staircase at the back.

2. The Shady Fox - A Casino-Inspired Hideout

The Shady Fox in Canggu is not just a speakeasy—it’s an immersive experience. This bar is designed to look like an underground casino from the 1920s, with bartenders dressed as croupiers and secret poker games happening behind the scenes. The drink menu is cleverly disguised as a deck of playing cards, adding an extra layer of fun to your night out.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Unique concept with a prohibition-era gambling theme

• Cocktail menu inspired by classic drinks from the roaring 20s

• Secret VIP room for those who love exclusivity

How to Find It: No obvious signage look for a plain door with a subtle fox emblem near Batu Bolong.

3. The Shady Pig - The Ultimate Underground Bar

If you’re in Berawa, don’t miss out on The Shady Pig, one of Bali’s most exclusive speakeasies. Inspired by 1920s British bootlegging culture, this bar serves up some of the most creative cocktails on the island. Expect to find experimental mixology, prohibition-era charm, and a no-menu policy—the bartenders craft your drink based on your preferences.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Personalized cocktails tailored to your taste

• Underground, prohibition-style decor with vintage touches

• Secret entrance and exclusive vibe

How to Find It: Hidden behind an unmarked entrance in Berawa, with access by invitation or recommendation only.

4. Baker Street Social - Ubud’s Hidden Cocktail Haven

For those who prefer a laid-back speakeasy with world-class cocktails, Baker Street Social in Ubud is the perfect escape. This hidden gem offers high-quality drinks, moody interiors, and a small, intimate setting that makes you feel like you’re part of an exclusive club.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Some of the best craft cocktails in Bali

• Quiet and intimate, away from Ubud’s crowded bars

• Expert bartenders who create custom drinks based on your preferences

How to Find It: Located above a small café in Ubud, the entrance is discreet, and you may need to ask around.

5. Gimme Shelter - A Rock n’ Roll Speakeasy

For those looking for something different, Gimme Shelter in Canggu is a grunge-style speakeasy with a rock and roll atmosphere. Hidden behind an unmarked entrance, this venue is the place to go if you love live music, craft cocktails, and a rebellious underground vibe.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Great selection of spirits and cocktails

• Live rock music performances every weekend

• Secret location gives it an exclusive appeal

How to Find It: Look for an old metal door with graffiti in Canggu, then head down a dimly lit staircase.

Tips for Enjoying Bali’s Hidden Speakeasies

To fully enjoy Bali’s secret nightlife scene, keep these tips in mind:

• Do your research: Many speakeasies don’t have obvious signage or are invite-only.

• Dress the part: Some of these bars have a dress code, so avoid flip-flops and beachwear.

• Ask locals or expats: The best way to discover new secret bars is through word-of-mouth.

• Respect the exclusivity: These places are meant to be intimate and special, so enjoy the experience without disrupting the atmosphere.

Is Bali’s Speakeasy Scene Worth Exploring?

If you’re looking for a unique, high-end nightlife experience, Bali’s speakeasies are definitely worth checking out. With their hidden entrances, masterfully crafted cocktails, and immersive themes, these bars offer a refreshing alternative to mainstream clubs and bars. Whether you're after a romantic date night, a night of mystery, or a cozy escape, these hidden gems will leave you with unforgettable memories.

So next time you're in Bali, go beyond the usual beach clubs and step into the world of secret nightlife if you can find it!