The White Rabbit in Gilbert, which opens Sunday, is just the newest of the speakeasy-style bars in the Valley. Here are a few more the check out when you’re in the mood for craft cocktails in a cozy, off-the-beaten-path environment.
The Ostrich
10 N. San Marcos Place, Chandler
Open 6 p.m. to midnight most nights, but open 5 p.m. until 2 a.m. on Friday and 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Saturday.
The Ostrich sits beneath Crust Chandler and has become a popular East Valley spot. To get in, just look for a staircase leading downward on the south side of the building that houses Crust.
Melinda’s Alley
50 E. Adams St., Phoenix (that address will get you in the right area)
Open 9 p.m.-1 a.m., Friday and Saturday
Five drinks on the menu each night, four of which rotate. The one constant on the menu is no surprise to those in know, as the old-fashioned is the staple of any establishment that sells high-quality cocktails. Like the name suggests, Melinda’s entrance is in an alley behind the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Phoenix. Best way to find it is to go to the northwest corner of the Renaissance and look for the tell-tale red light over a set of double doors that are accented by a giant mural. A better clue will be the line of people in that dark alley.
Honor Amongst Thieves
5538 N. 7th Street, Phoenix
Open from 6 p.m. to midnight, Sunday through Thursday, and 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
This upstairs establishment celebrates the styles of the roaring ’50s and one of the best cocktail lounges in Central Phoenix. Accessed by a staircase at the rear of Stock & Stable in The Colony, Honor Amongst Thieves is a cozy lounge that has room for 80 and features fine spirits, wine and beer.
Undertow
3620 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix
Open 4 p.m. to midnight, Monday-Thursday, 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Friday, 1 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday
This tiny place recommends making reservations if you really want to ensure you have a seat. Reservations can be made online. Undertow is located underneath Sip Coffee & Beer Garage, a building that used to be home to an oil change business. Walking into Undertow is like walking below deck on a pirate ship, with wall-to-wall wood, a small, central bar, and about 30 seats.
Sanctum at The Grand
718 N. Central Ave., Phoenix
Only open on Friday and Saturday, 9 p.m. to midnight
Tucked away in the back of the second floor of The Grand coffee shop & bistro (which is open 24/7) in the emerging Roosevelt District of Phoenix, Sanctum offers a place to really feel like you’re hidden from the outside world. The small, intimate, dark room is furnished with antique-looking furniture that fits perfectly. The menu is creative and has a variety of drinks, but is gin-centric as a throwback to the classic speakeasies of nearly a century ago.