The Back Door

You can only get into this Wisconsin speakeasy by typing the password on a typewriter. That is what unlocks the door. This is Milwaukee's newest speakeasy, and this place was awesome.

The Lowdown

• City: Milwaukee, WI
• Address: 767 N Front St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (alley entrance, no big sign)
• Phone: (414) 240-5866
• Website: thebackdoormke.com
• Hours: Wed, Thu and Sun 5 PM to 11 PM, Fri and Sat 5 PM to 1 AM, closed Mon and Tue
• Cocktails: about $18 to $20

The vibe

I am talking classic speakeasy vibes, where everything feels private and intimate. Dark, dim room. Bartenders who actually know what they are doing. The ambiance of this place was incredible.

It is highly recommended that you get a reservation. There are some tables for walk ins, but good luck getting a spot if you just show up. This is the perfect date night spot, private event spot, nice cocktail spot or post dinner spot.

What I ordered

Cocktails here range from about 18 to 20 bucks, so they are classier and a little more expensive. I got the Old Fashioned off their fall menu, which is actually made with gin. That was good.

Then I got what might have been my favorite cocktail I have had in a very long time: the Cream City Velvet. It felt very light to drink, but it was absolutely packed with flavor. Not so much flavor that you are like, oh this is way too sugary. It was a perfect cocktail. I went with my brother in law and his fiance, and they both raved about their drinks too.

Important and interesting info

• You do not leave through the door you came in.
• On the way out there are markers you can grab, and you can write whatever you want on the walls. Do not forget to write your name.
• Reservations get you the entry code for the typewriter.

The verdict

I just cannot get over how badass this place was. The vibes, the energy, the comfort. So far this has been the best speakeasy I have been to in Wisconsin, and next time I am in Milwaukee I am 100% going here after dinner. This spot was sick.