New bourbon-themed speakeasy opens on Louisville's Whiskey Row

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A new bourbon-themed speakeasy is now open on Louisville's Whiskey Row.

The 1933 Society is located beneath Hotel Distil, with a discreet entrance located on First and Main Street. The speakeasy is centered around the history of the bourbon industry and the people who safeguarded American drinking culture during prohibition.

Casey Grinold, the General Manager of Hotel Distil, said in a release Monday Whiskey Row was the right location for the venue because of its historical context.

"Whiskey Row has always been central to bourbon’s story," Grinold said. "The 1933 Society builds on that legacy by offering access to rare and exclusive pours alongside a cocktail program rooted in the people who carried the industry through Prohibition. It’s an experience designed for guests who want to be immersed in the history of our bourbon culture."

The 60-person venue offers a mix of lounge and bar seating. Its menu features a collection of cocktails, including "rare pours" aimed at both "bourbon enthusiasts and cocktail connoisseurs."

Each cocktail is named after a historical figure who defied prohibition. This includes people like Tom Bullock, a bartender from Louisville who created a cocktail book for underground drink makers, and Mary Dowling, who moved her distillery across the border to keep it running.

The 1933 Society is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to midnight, and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m to 1 a.m.

Click here to make a reservation.