From Unmarked Doors to Disco-Glam Lounges, These Secret Bars in Orange County Are Too Good to Keep to Ourselves

The secret’s out! Stumble upon buried treasure at fully immersive hideaways or, as we like to call them, drinkeasies. Eclectic atmospheres lure you in from the moment you walk through the door (or pull aside the bookcase). From sleek, sexy bars to moody, themed taverns, you never know where you might be able to raise a glass. Ditch mainstream spots and opt for hidden gems like these Orange County speakeasies. We’re sharing everything we know about these 22 elusive drinkeasies, including where you can find them. Cheers!

 

Outer Space

Dick Church’s looks like your standard Costa Mesa diner from the outside, but slip past the counter, and you’ll land in another world entirely. P10NEER is a tiny space-age speakeasy tucked in the back, and it’s easily one of the most creative pours in the county. The bar leans into its NASA spacecraft namesake with cocktails that riff on classic recipes using seasonal ingredients and clever infusions rather than reinventing the wheel. Order from their rotating seasonal menu and let the bartenders talk you through the science behind the sip. Seating runs tight, so reservations are the smart move. Come for date night, stay for the soundtrack setting the mood. 

P10NEER
2698 Newport Blvd
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
@pioneer.cm
T-Su, 5 – 11 p.m.; M, Closed

 

A Sushi Speakeasy

Bristol Street’s dining strip just got a lot more interesting. Highball is the new cocktail lounge devoted entirely to Japan’s tradition of monozukuri: the art of making things with intention. Bar leads Justin Oh and Tony Morabito pour American classics filtered through Japanese precision, including a Taketsuru Pure Malt and Westland Single Malt highball stretched with Singha soda. Tucked behind an art-covered door in the corner sits the real drinkeasy. At Naisho Omakase, a 14-seat sushi counter, Chef Shimpei Shinohara guides diners through 12-16 sea-forward courses. Walk in for a cocktail at Highball, then slip through the hidden door for the full sushi theater experience. Just don’t expect a sign out front; this one’s nondescript by choice.

Highball
3033 Bristol St, Ste 117
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
949.390.8377
Daily, 5 – 11 p.m.

 

Sleek & Sophisticated

Nestled on the ground floor of the stunning VEA Newport Beach, one of the city’s premier luxury hotels, lies the latest buzz in food and beverage experiences. reveal is a vibrant evening and late-night destination, a social hub serving up expertly crafted cocktails and classic bar bites with a VEA twist. As you push past the entrance’s brushed brass door, you’ll find an intimate, indoor-outdoor lounge space featuring groovy tunes from the 90s and early 2000s. Think artists like New Edition, Mariah Carey, Salt-N-Pepa, Aaliyah and Usher. The space itself features sleek decor and a curated collection of cherished relics from around the globe. The ambiance embraces VEA’s contemporary, cosmopolitan vibe while also tipping its hat to some of the most extraordinary waterfront destinations worldwide. Gather for an elevated night out and sip on signature cocktails like the Meet Judy Jetson, We Didn’t Start the Fire or the Fireside Negroni. 

reveal at VEA Newport Beach
900 Newport Center Dr
Newport Beach, CA 92660
949.640.4000
F-Sa, 6 p.m. – Midnight; Su-Th, Closed

 

You Never Know

You never know what you’ll find on the menu, but at least you’ll now know where to find Speakeasy YNK. This “Mad Men”-inspired bar is tucked inside the Irvine Marriott, through sheer sliding doors behind the lobby bar. An envelope is handed to guests upon entry, revealing drinks that constantly change, a nod to their “you never know” motto. Smoked rosemary libations were previously featured cocktails, alongside Instagrammable vapor elixirs. Roll the camera, pop the suspended bubble and take a sip. Finished with upholstered black leather sofas and bookshelves brimming with global reads, YNK is a romantic spot for a cozy evening, the hidden bar resembling an old-fashioned English library. If you’re seeking an intimate spot with top-notch mixology, add YNK to the list.

Speakeasy YNK
18000 Von Karman Ave
Irvine, CA 92612
949.553.0100
W-Sa, 5 – 11 p.m.; Su-T, Closed

 

Movie Magic

Set in the charming seaside town of San Clemente, The Lost Inferno, a “Goonies”-inspired speakeasy, encapsulates the coastal grunge of this enclave. To find this buried treasure, look for the sushi restaurant with the red door off the I-5 and Pacific Coast Highway. The sunken shipwreck is in the back, fully decked out with candle-lit chandeliers, vintage maps and skeletons hanging overhead. Grabbing a drink at Lost Inferno feels like an adventure through Mama Fratelli’s underground cavern. Drink like a pirate and order the Blue Astoria with Wray and Nephew Rum, or for a drink that is literally fire, opt for the Chester Copperpot. The Lost Inferno is argh-uably San Clemente’s best cocktail bar; the only rule is to never say die.

Local Insight: Book a table on the first Sunday of each month for cocktails and cosmic magic at The Lost Inferno’s Enchanted Escape magic show.

The Lost Inferno
425 N El Camino Real
San Clemente, CA 92672
@thelostinfernooc
W-Th, 5 – 11 p.m.-ish; F, 5 p.m. – Midnight-ish; Sa, 3 p.m. – Midnight-ish; Su, 5 – 10 p.m.-ish; M-T, Closed 

 

Crafted with Precision

Following your journey to the Goon Docks, grab a second drink upstairs at The Lost Inferno’s sibling drinkeasy, Momoku No Usagi. This watering hole may be unassuming from the exterior, but pull aside the bookshelf and find yourself on the streets of Tokyo. Iconic colored umbrellas hang overhead, and vintage Japanese posters coat the walls. The most eye-catching part is the lantern-lined bar that hosts a collection of global whiskies. All four of Momoku’s Old Fashioned variations are fan favorites, but for something light and refreshing, order the rotating highball made with Japanese whisky, Champagne and house-made matcha cordial. Hand rolls are crafted just as precisely as the cocktails themselves, making this Japanese hideaway a perfect and impressive dinner date as well.

Momoku No Usagi
425 N El Camino Real
San Clemente, CA 92672
@momokunousagi
W-Sa, 5 – 11 p.m./Midnight-ish; Su, 5 – 10 p.m.-ish; M-T, Closed 

 

No Pictures, Please

No photos or videos are allowed at Graceland, so we’ll paint the picture for you. Your phone will be locked in a box upon entry, but after a cocktail or two, you won’t even care. This eclectic urban hideaway can be found inside HQ Gastropub, across from the Huntington Beach Pier. Follow the sounds of Elvis Presley and ‘70s tunes to the neon keg-lined entryway. Inside, brick walls are painted with vibrant street art, which contrasts the luxe velvet lounges, making Graceland look more like it belongs in New York City than Huntington Beach (with the exception of the ocean views, of course). Both booze and bites are available, and we recommend you order the Tea Party, a life-changing combo of gin, Earl Grey tea, creamy coconut and sweet matcha. Pinkies up.

Graceland at HQ Gastropub
155 5th St
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
714.369.2155
Th, 5 p.m. – Midnight; F-Sa, 5 p.m. – 1 a.m.; Su, 4 – 9 p.m.; M-W, Closed

 

Surviving a Shipwreck

Hop aboard sunken wreckage at Strong Water to find an undiscovered tropical treasure. Wood-paneled walls are brimming with vintage artifacts, and lush greenery grows through the ceiling of the shipwreck, which was designed by owners Ying Chang and Robert Adamson, the founders of Strong Water’s sister speakeasy, The Blind Rabbit. Sip on rum-based cocktails under dim lights and sway the night away to the tropical tunes. Order the long and strong Beware the Tradewinds cocktail, but beware of Lady Clementine’s ghost that haunts the ship. You may want to keep this drinkeasy a secret after all.

Strong Water
270 S Clementine St
Anaheim, CA 92805
714.844.1875
M-W, 5 – 11 p.m.; Th-F, 5 p.m. – Midnight; Sa, Noon – Midnight; Su, Noon – 10 p.m. 

 

Western Sparkle

Cowboys and Poodles puts the giddy in giddy-up with playful Western charm and a hint of disco. A glittering ball lights up the speakeasy-style bar, located near The Camp in Costa Mesa. Pull aside the bookcase and walk under the cowboy hat hallway to saddle up at the bar on horsetail barstools. Order the Whole Mood Cocktail, garnished with smoking sage, and spill all your secrets in the classic confessional booth. Follow along on social media for new cocktails each week and the live entertainment schedule.

Cowboys and Poodles
2948 Randolph Ave, Ste B
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
657.600.8477
T-Th, 6 – 11 p.m.; F-Sa, 5 p.m. – 1 a.m.; Su, 3 – 11 p.m.; M, Closed

 

Behind the Barrels

Down the rabbit hole at Anaheim Packing District is a 1920s speakeasy lounge. Pull on one of the sake barrels against the back wall to find it. Every nook and cranny of the low-light bar dates back to the Prohibition Era, with a basement-style setting with brick walls, vintage bookcases and fringed lampshades. The Blind Rabbit’s atmosphere warps back in time, but the cocktails themselves are much more modern. For something sweet and fruity, order the Gatsby’s Garden Party from their rotating menu.

The Blind Rabbit
440 S Anaheim Blvd, Ste 104
Anaheim, CA 92805
714.724.8418 
M-F, 5 – 11 p.m.; Sa-Su, Noon – 11 p.m. 

 

Go Outside

Minimal signage, zero gimmicks and a soft jazz playlist lead the way at one of Irvine’s best-kept secrets. Cozy Pine Speakeasy makes its mark with dark wood interiors and its outdoor-themed cocktails like the Dirty Girl Scout and the Devil’s Postpile. This low-key lounge, tucked inside Bacchus Bar and Bistro in a quiet retail center, embraces simplicity with spirit-forward drinks and a casually refined vibe. For those seeking a no-frills speakeasy bar in Orange County, this one checks every box. It’s cozy, clever and refreshingly off-radar.

Cozy Pine Speakeasy
6735 Quail Hill Pkwy
Irvine, CA 92603
949.502.4600
Su, 2 – 9 p.m.; M-Sa, 2 – 10 p.m.

 

Prized Whiskeys

The flavors of Tokyo hit Huntington Beach at Kai Lounge. Just steps off the sand, Tokyo’s electric energy is evident in the lively bustle of this Pacific City restaurant. The upscale modern bistro specializes in fire-lit stir-fry, but its spirit-forward cocktails deserve just as much attention. Concealed inside the restaurant is a private Whiskey Room showcasing Kai’s prized collection of spirits. This secluded space doubles as a speakeasy, where Executive Chef Tim Nguyen serves multi-sensory 18-course omakase meals for parties up to 10.

Whiskey Room at Kai Lounge
21058 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste M230
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
657.259.0010
M-Th, 5 – 9 p.m.; F-Su, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

 

Hidden Society

If your dream date night includes cocktails and wood-fired pizza behind a bookshelf, Pie Society Bar has your number. One of the best Orange County speakeasies, it’s hidden behind Pitfire Pizza and channels secret society vibes without the stuffiness. This hidden bar in Orange County features magnetic ambiance: green velvet, dim lighting and cheeky Illuminati references. The cocktail list surprises with the martini con horchata and tropical depression. Guests stay for the vibe, but rave about the dough.

Pie Society Bar
353 E 17th St
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
949.313.6335
Su, 5 – 10 p.m.; M-Th, 5 – 11 p.m.; F-Sa, 5 p.m. – Midnight

 

Chic Libations

Behind a velvet curtain in Brussels Bistro, CIR Lounge serves as one of the sleekest speakeasy cocktail bars in OC. It’s easy to miss, but impossible to forget. This secret bar in Orange County pairs brushed gold detailing, disco lighting and DJ sets. Meanwhile, their cocktail menu specializes in Japanese spirits paired with fun fruit combinations, like the cherry-forward Saigon Sling. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or a post-work hang, the drinks and deep house playlist set the tone.

CIR Lounge
18120 Brookhurst St, Ste 2
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
714.698.8929
T-Th, 5 – 11 p.m.; F-Sa, 5 p.m. – 1 a.m.; Su, 5 – 11 p.m.; M, Closed

 

Hidden Gem

Ruin Bar doesn’t try to win you over because it already has. Hidden inside The LAB Anti-Mall, this is one of those underground bars Orange County is quietly obsessed with. With its moody concrete interior and smoky drinks, Ruin Bar feels like a David Lynch dreamscape. No logos, no labels, just killer cocktails and a who’s-who crowd that gets it. It’s a speakeasy that rewards repeat visits and gives you the chance to taste all seven drinks on the mule menu.

Ruin Bar
2930 Bristol St
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714.884.3189
M-W, 6 p.m. – Midnight; Th, 3 p.m. – 1 a.m.; F-Su, 2 p.m. – 2 a.m. 

 

Bold & Unexpected

There’s something about a reclaimed bungalow, jazz on vinyl and a mezcal Old Fashioned that just hits different. Roost 374 brings all that and more to the OC speakeasy scene. Tucked behind an unassuming façade, this soulful cocktail bar delivers smoked cherries, house party energy and a staff that feels like family. Expect thoughtful drinks with rock-and-roll grit and maybe a surprise jazz set on the weekend. Among hidden bars in Orange County, this one speaks to those who like bold spirits and unexpected nights.

Roost 374
374 Camino de Estrella
San Clemente, CA 92672
W-Th, 5 – 11 p.m.; F-Sa, 5 p.m. – Midnight; Su, 5 – 11 p.m.; M-T, Closed

 

Pinocchio Pours

Located beneath STOWAWAY Tiki Bar, Belly of the Beast might be the wildest of all Orange County speakeasies. It’s theatrical, yes, but in the best way. You enter through an open whale’s mouth, and the heat only turns up from there with flame-lit cocktails and inferno-inspired interiors. It’s Tiki meets surf noir with a splash of 1970s horror: think fake blood, skulls and strong pours. Drinks like Farewell Jiminy and Smoke the Monster Out reveal the “Pinocchio”-themed inspiration as well. If you’re chasing unique speakeasy cocktail bars in OC, this one’s unforgettable.

Belly of the Beast
14401 Newport Ave
Tustin, CA 92780
657.208.2088
T-Sa, 5 – 10 p.m.; Su-M, Closed

 

Fantastical Flair

Designed by a Disney Imagineer, The Cellar is pure vintage glam and one of the best romantic bars in Orange County. With low ceilings, glowing chandeliers and timeless martinis, it’s a masterclass in ambiance. This speakeasy bar in Orange County doesn’t shout; it seduces with a seasonal drink menu. Whether it’s a Sazerac or a celebratory flute of bubbles, everything feels intentional here. It’s not just a cocktail and wine bar; it’s a full experience.

The Cellar
305 N. Harbor Blvd., Ste. 1
Fullerton, CA 92832
714.525.5682
Su-Th, 4 – 10 p.m.; F-Sa, 4 – 11 p.m.

 

From Sports to Pop Culture

Behind the bustle of Anaheim Packing House lies a portal to vintage cool and soccer matches. BXCR Underground delivers speakeasy charm through train-car interiors and a killer cocktail list. Their drinks are even named after iconic pop culture references, from “Sex and the City” to Platform 9¾. This intimate hideout ranks high among hidden bars in Orange County, especially for soccer lovers who appreciate sports matches with a side of ambiance and delicious pours. Come for the aesthetic, stay for the surprise.

BXCR Underground
440 S Anaheim Blvd
Anaheim, CA 92805
657.220.4872
Su-Th, Noon – 11 p.m.; F-Sa, Noon – Midnight 

 

Underground History

La Cave Restaurant isn’t just one of the oldest speakeasy vibe restaurants in Orange County; it’s also one of the sexiest. Located beneath the Costa Mesa streets since 1962, this underground bar and steakhouse serves Rat Pack energy on the rocks. Expect red booths, Old Fashioned cocktails and candlelight that flatters everyone. For those craving authenticity, La Cave is the real deal. It’s where locals go to drink, dine and disappear for hours.

La Cave Restaurant
1695 Irvine Ave
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
949.646.7944
T-Th, 4:30 – 9 p.m.; F-Sa, 4:30 – 10 p.m.; Su-M, Closed 

 

Toil & Trouble

Drink the potion at The Cauldron in Buena Park. As ominous as a witch’s lair, this moody bar exudes an enchantingly dark atmosphere with eclectic antiques. A single green eye above the mantle is always watching as you sip on elixirs near the bubbling cauldron. As spooky as this hideaway may seem, its French menu is nothing to be afraid of. Try the prosciutto-wrapped shrimp and pair it with the bartender’s secret concoction. Join Yelp’s waitlist for a table, and don’t forget: a witch’s favorite drink is wine. Come on Wine Sundays for half-off bottles.

The Cauldron
8028 Beach Blvd
Buena Park, CA 90620
714.484.2733
T-Th, 4 p.m. – Midnight; F-Sa, 4 p.m. – 2 a.m.; Su, 3 p.m. – Midnight; M, Closed

 

Sipping Under the “Stars”

Welcome to the club: dimly lit, sleek and sexy, The Guild Club in Costa Mesa perfectly matches the sophisticated feel of South Coast Plaza, where the bar is located. Known for elevated enhancements to America’s favorite bites and cocktails, The Guild’s most popular menu items include the totally tempting duck fat fries and cheese-stuffed fried olives. The beverage menu boasts premium liquors, including a 21-year-old rum, but the most notable cocktail is The Girlfriend, a cheeky nod to the fact that “the girlfriend” changes each day. Sip underneath the stars of the hand-painted celestial ceiling and feel the beat of the DJ’s tracks. The Guild Club is best suited for date-night drinks, followed by reservations at their sister restaurant, Arc Food & Libations.

The Guild Club
3321 Hyland Ave, Ste G
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
949.500.5561
W-Sa, 5 – 11 p.m.; Su-T, Closed

 

Q&A:

Q: What are the best speakeasies in Orange County right now?

A: Some of the best speakeasies in Orange County include P10NEER and The Guild Club in Costa Mesa, reveal at VEA Newport Beach and Momoku No Usagi in San Clemente. Each one hides behind an unmarked door, bookshelf or diner counter, so half the fun is finding them in the first place.

Q: How do you get into a hidden bar in Orange County?

A: Entry varies by spot. Some, like P10NEER inside Dick Church’s, require reservations due to limited seating, while others like Cowboys and Poodles ask guests to pull aside a bookcase, or The Blind Rabbit, where you enter through sake barrels. It’s smart to check each venue’s Instagram, OpenTable or Yelp page before heading out.

Q: Are Orange County speakeasies 21 and over?

A: Yes. As bars serving alcohol, every speakeasy and drinkeasy on this list requires guests to be 21 or older with valid ID, regardless of how casual or theatrical the entrance feels.

Q: Do Orange County speakeasies take reservations?

A: Most do, and it’s worth booking ahead. Spots like Naisho Omakase at Highball and P10NEER seat limited numbers of guests nightly, so walk-ins aren’t guaranteed a table, especially on weekends.

Q: What makes a bar a “speakeasy” versus a regular cocktail bar?

A: True to their Prohibition-era roots, speakeasies lean into secrecy and theater, whether that’s a hidden entrance, an unmarked door or a code word. Orange County’s version of the trend keeps that spirit alive with elaborate themes, from Graceland’s Elvis-soundtracked lounge to P10NEER’s space-age cocktail menu, all built around the thrill of discovery.