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“Hidden gem.” “Concealed treasure.” “Best-kept secret.” Do we have your attention yet?
If your curiosity starts percolating at the thought of clandestine adventures, you’re going to love this double dose of uncovering and discovering.
Follow our clues to explore these four intriguing speakeasies and the towns where you’ll find them hiding in plain sight.
135 E Main Street, Suite 101, Rock Hill | (803) 328-7333
Follow the clues: Head to Kounter, a farm-to-table restaurant helmed by Rob Masone, a 2023 South Carolina Chef Ambassador. There, you’ll also find a European-style cheese and charcuterie bodega called Elsie’s, which was named in honor of Chef Masone’s grandmother.
Gain access: To enter Elsie’s, you’ll need to provide the day’s password. (Hint: You can find it by reading their daily Facebook and Instagram posts.) Then, you will be directed to a walk-in cooler. But looks are deceiving. Open the cooler door to reveal a cozy, hidden cocktail bar on the other side.
Enjoy: Top-shelf spirits infuse Elsie’s cocktails, both modern and classic. Nibbles include charcuterie boards, a rotation of shareable plates and tempting sweets. Note that there is a two-hour seating limit so everyone can be accommodated.
Explore: Rock Hill might be considered part of the bustling Charlotte metro area, but you’ll find plenty of small-town charm here. Spend a day exploring Old Town Rock Hill, where you’ll find great shopping, exciting dining, historic points of interest, art galleries and cultural attractions.
205 E. Main Street, Pickens | (220) 244-0866
Follow the clues: On E. Main Street in downtown Pickens, enter the storefront next door to the chiropractic office. (Fun fact: The chiropractor, Dr. Tiffany Orcena, is also the proprietor of the speakeasy!) Walk down the stairs and face the bookshelf.
Gain access: Locate the books on the top shelf. Pull them down like a handle and the bookshelf will swing open to reveal the bar behind it—an intimate spot with vintage furniture and fun decor.
Enjoy: Choose from an array of hand-crafted cocktails, local wines, beer (including local IPAs on tap), sangria and moonshine drinks called “Giggle Water.” Small plates like chili-glazed meatballs, charcuterie cups and deviled eggs are tasty, too.
Explore: Historic Downtown Pickens is small but lively. The renovated brick buildings house quaint boutiques, gift shops, restaurants, a spa, department store and more. Because this area is part of the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail, look for the colorful squares adorning some of the buildings. Also, have fun with the Turtles on the Town project by downloading a map and embarking on a scavenger hunt for tiny turtle sculptures. With the mountains as a backdrop, Pickens County is also rich in natural beauty. Outdoorsy types should definitely plan to hit the hiking and biking trails and waterways.
593 SC-90 E, Little River | (843) 663-3344
Follow the clues: To access this speakeasy, you will need to purchase a ticket in advance for a VIP distillery tour or watch the distillery’s social media pages for announcements of special “open to the public” days.
Gain access: Immerse yourself in the behind-the-scenes distillery tour and learn about fermentation, distillation and bottling as well as the origin and composition of various spirits. You’ll also meet “Bonnie and Clyde,” a pair of stills used in the process. You will then be shown to industrial-looking double doors, complete with a large “Hazardous Materials” sign. Open the doors and be amazed by the speakeasy on the other side made cozy with dim lighting and dark wood appointments.
Enjoy: “Spirit Guides” will lead you through a tasting flight and serve a signature craft cocktail. Tours last 90 minutes and are limited to 12 guests, so there’s an intimate feel to the experience. This craft distillery also offers a menu of appetizing small bites to pair with your drinks.
Explore: The fishing village of Little River is the oldest town along the Grand Strand. You can enjoy the waterways here by renting a jet ski or boat or chartering a boat for a deep-sea fishing excursion. Restaurants here are known for their fresh seafood and water views. Little River is also home to the Big M Casino, which operates a pair of Las Vegas-style gambling boats with dinner service and lots of options for your gaming pleasure. If none of that floats your boat, hit one of the Grand Strand’s many beautiful beaches—no hidden doors or passwords needed!
187 N. Church Street, Spartanburg | (864) 825-5345
Follow the clues: From John Street, head to the back of the historic Montgomery Building. Between the building and the parking garage, take the stairs to a sunken patio.
Gain access: The speakeasy is in the former boiler room of The Montgomery. The entrance is to the left of the large art deco-style mural on the back wall. Just walk in – no password needed. Inside, you'll find an intimate space with an elegant steampunk vibe.
Enjoy: There is a tapas-style food menu with a rotating lineup of savories like housemade pimento cheese and albondigas (Spanish meatballs). Pair with craft cocktails infused with seasonal flavor profiles, SC craft beers, fine wines and zero-proof offerings.
Explore: Spartanburg, aka "Hub City," is home to a vibrant arts scene, lively nightlife, memorable dining, historic sites and outdoor recreation options. Hungry? Check out the Spartanburger Trail for the best burger finds. Plan to visit the BMW manufacturing facility where you can tour the plant and, with advanced reservations, put your driving skills to the test at the BMW Performance Driving School.
