When the work week ends, the city’s usual nightlife can feel over‑exposed. A speakeasy offers a secret door, a bespoke cocktail, and a slice of 1920s charm that turns a routine evening into a weekend escape. The real question is: which hidden bars deliver the most authentic experience without the crowds?
Hidden in Plain Sight: The Doorway Dilemma
London’s best speakeasies hide behind ordinary storefronts. For example, Evans & Co. sits in a narrow alley of Soho, its entrance marked only by a brass keyhole. You need to ring a bell, then a staff member will pull back a panel that reveals a dimly lit lounge. The wait is usually under two minutes, but the secretive vibe makes it worth the brief pause.
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Contrast that with Hemingway’s Hideout in Shoreditch. Here, a bookshelf doubles as a door; you must pull the third volume on the left to trigger a hidden door. The trick is simple, but the bar’s proximity to a busy market street means the entrance can feel a bit exposed if you’re looking for complete anonymity.
Drinks That Tell a Story
Both venues offer a rotating menu of classic cocktails, but the approach differs. Evans & Co. focuses on low‑proof, botanical infusions. Their signature, the “Velvet Whisper,” blends gin, elderflower liqueur, and a splash of tonic, finished with a citrus twist. The bartender spends up to 45 seconds preparing each drink, ensuring a personal touch.
Hemingway’s Hideout leans toward high‑proof, spirit‑centric creations. The “Old Fashioned Reimagined” uses a single barrel‑aged bourbon, a dash of bitters, and a sugar cube that’s toasted over an open flame. The presentation is theatrical, with the flame lasting about 30 seconds before the drink is served.
Atmosphere and Ambiance: Light vs. Sound
Evans & Co. keeps the lighting low, with amber lamps and a single piano that plays soft jazz. The sound level stays under 60 decibels, allowing conversation to flow without shouting. The seating is a mix of plush booths and narrow bar stools, giving guests a sense of intimacy.
Hemingway’s Hideout, by contrast, uses a more vibrant soundtrack. A live saxophonist takes the stage for the first hour of operation, and the volume climbs to about 70 decibels. The décor is more eclectic, with vintage posters and mismatched chairs that create a playful, almost circus‑like feel.
Timing and Availability
Both bars operate on a strict schedule. Evans & Co. opens at 5 p.m. on Fridays and closes at 2 a.m. on Saturdays, with a brief intermission between 10 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. for cleaning. Reservations are recommended for the weekend, especially if you want to secure a seat by the piano.
Hemingway’s Hideout opens at 4:30 p.m. on Fridays and stays open until 1 a.m. on Saturdays. It does not accept reservations; you must arrive early to guarantee a spot. The bar’s open‑air layout means it can get noticeably cooler after midnight, so a light jacket is advisable.
Accessibility and Practicalities
Both venues are located near public transport hubs. Evans & Co. is a five‑minute walk from Oxford Circus tube station, while Hemingway’s Hideout is a ten‑minute stroll from Old Street station. Parking is scarce in both areas, so a taxi or ride‑share is the most reliable option if you plan to stay late.
Price points are comparable: a standard cocktail averages £12 at Evans & Co. and £13 at Hemingway’s Hideout. However, Evans & Co. offers a “Happy Hour” from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays, cutting drinks to £8, which can be a decisive factor for budget‑conscious patrons.
Weekend Escape: Exploring London’s Hidden Speakeasy Bars can feel like stepping into a different era, but the choice between a quiet, jazz‑filled lounge and a lively, saxophone‑driven haunt depends on your mood. If you prefer a more subdued, conversation‑friendly environment, Evans & Co. is the clear winner. For those who enjoy a touch of theatrical flair and a higher volume, Hemingway’s Hideout delivers.
Which to Pick?
Consider the atmosphere you’re after and the time you plan to arrive. If you want a low‑key evening with a touch of history, book a table at Evans & Co. and arrive after the 10 p.m. intermission. If you’re after a more energetic vibe and don’t mind the lack of reservations, head to Hemingway’s Hideout early on Friday night. Either choice turns an ordinary weekend into a memorable escape.