New 'Speakeasy' to Open in Ohio City

Ever since Sam McNulty opened the Bier Markt (1948 W. 25th St., 216.344.9944, bier-markt.com), he’s been tinkering in the basement. No, he isn’t restoring a big-block Chevy or building the ultimate “man cave.” He’s been fabricating another bar. In less than a month, all that work will pay off when he unveils Speakeasy, a lower-level club with an antiestablishment vibe. The dimly lit, grotto-like lounge will specialize in Prohibition-era cocktails and feature servers in “updated flapper outfits.” Roughly the size of its upstairs neighbor, Speakeasy will accommodate about 120 guests at a sizeable central bar, at chunky wood high tops, and along wall-hugging banquettes. Ingenious Amish-built benches offer space for both seated and standing friends at long raised tables. Faux gas lamps flicker, casting an old-timey glow on the 150-year-old hand-chiseled sandstone walls. Original black and white prints by Cleveland artist Clay Parker follow the Prohibition theme, with images of booze-dumping teetotalers and sassy bob-haired flappers. A small stage will feature a wide range of live entertainment, from trendy DJs to classical recitals. “I have always loved underground bars,” McNulty says. “La Cave du Vin is my favorite bar that I don’t own. Humans are den animals at heart.” Speakeasy will be open Thursday through Saturday and for special events.