Retro, big-city feel at The Bookstore.

It's easy to draw comparisons between today and the 1920s.  The economy, anyone?  And if nothing else, there is one constant, no matter what the economy is doing.  In the best of times and the worst of times, people want to drink. 



And we do.



So why not indulge at a place that is a throwback to the jazz age?  The Bookstore Speakeasy on Adams is so close to days past that when you check the time, you'll want to check the date too.  Here's why the place is so clever:



Hidden elements. 
The main entrance is so nondescript that it would function as a side door at any other establishment.  Painted in utilitarian font: THE BOOKSTORE.  Upon entering, one will find himself in a bookstore.  Then asked for identification and ushered behind a curtain.  



Take one step, and you've gone back in time.  It is a speakeasy, entirely lit by candles.  Take a seat.  The menus are hidden inside of books.  From these menus, you'll make selections from a list of signature cocktails, rare beers, cheese and small plates menus.  Pay special attention to the signature cocktails.  All of them are from the 1920s. 



Atmosphere.
The place is full of vintage furnishings and the walls, as far as I detect, are genuine Victorian-era colors.  At your table, enjoy your company amid the light of oil candles.  The buzz of conversation is interrupted only by the occasional flaring trumpet.  The house band plays every weekend.  The bandleader is a gem: he plays the piano like a player piano, fingers jumping on the keys.  He sings into a megaphone for volume.  He plays the trumpet too.  He's accompanied by a tuba player and a guitarist.  And, of course, they're all dressed the parts and are playing 80 year old songs.



As for your drinks: the ice is hand-chipped - so you won't find it crushed or cubed.  The bartenders and waitstaff are dressed in black and white.  The atmosphere is warm, encouraging you to wear your best dress. 



No, you won't find today's frills.  Instead, you'll find yesterday's treasures.  One can't help but be a character here.  Before tonight, a place like this existed only in a daydream.



http://www.thebookstorespeakeasy.com/