Hidden underground behind an unsuspecting door in the Northern Quarter in Manchester, Behind Closed Doors is a wonderfully dirty little secret – full of cleverly placed details that you might not spot at first glance.
Cloaked in plain sight on Oldham Street, the decor pays homage to the era that speakeasies absolutely thrived in, with decadent finishes akin to those you’d find in the 1920s, as well as cheeky touches here and there paying tribute to vintage/70s erotica.
Even entering the bar is a wonderful novelty, leading guests down a mysterious black-tiled staircase with only neon lights and low, antique-style lighting illuminating the way.
Once you do make your way downstairs, though, guests are greeted with the sounds of sweet, sweet funk and soul – with DJs often providing an upbeat atmosphere where you can kick back and enjoy cocktails and an endless list of speciality spirits just a matter of metres away from the hustle and bustle of the Northern Quarter.
The cocktail menu is concise, and it’s no secret what the theme is throughout the bar with names such as ‘Ne-Groan-I’ and ‘Penis Colada’. So how do I order one? I hear you ask. As part of the fun-yet-sleazy concept, guests can use the vintage corded telephones that sit at each table to dial to the bar, with table service then provided after you’ve made your order. And not only that, you can even dial-up other tables too – particularly great for if you spot your mate across the room and you’re social distancing.
Behind Closed Doors is open Tuesday-Sunday from 6pm, closing at 2am throughout the week, 3am Fridays and Saturdays and midnight on Sundays. Find it at 93 Oldham St, Manchester M4 1LW – but blink, and you might miss it. Booking not essential – Find out more here.