What a fabulous atmosphere, this only enhanced by a stellar staff led by Justin! He went out of his way to ensure we were having a great time. Now, for the third kudos-- and why we came here, I cannot provide enough raves re: their cocktails. We had 7 cocktails between the three of us. We shared ALL of them! I LOVE Hell or High Water and wish I could bring this speakeasy, staff, Justin and their VERY talented bartender back to NH with me! Thank you for a wonderfully fun beginning to our Louisville visit. You definitely set the tone! read more

What a funky little place! My friends and I put ourselves on the waitlist over a weekend evening, and they called us within five minutes for an available table! It can be a bit confusing to find...but if you know the logo and are observant, you'll see it! It's a whole vibe getting in. The cocktail menu is extensive - but they'll also make something personalized as well (as was the case for my friend who basically wanted a martini-like drink that tasted like pickle juice). And, they were able to accomodate our pregnant friend with a delicious and unique mocktail! Overall, a super fun place with a great aesthetic. read more

Hell or High Water - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

After finding the location, what's a speakeasy if you can find it easier right, we headed down the stairs to a nicely appointed cocktail bar and if you get a chance, go back to the library. At least that's what I call it but it's every man's man cave dream. Service was good. Everyone was very attentive, although not overly impressed with the cocktails. My $45 cocktail was fantastic. Everything else was average unfortunately. Maybe we were there on an off night but still worth checking out. They did have a nice selection of bourbon too! read more

Hell or High Water - "The Library" - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

I'm stuck closer to a 3.5. I realllllly wanted to love this place. The vibes are a 5! But the drinks were just ok... and it's a bar, so I would expect them to be excellent. The bar snacks left a lot to be desired as well... for $15 we were given about a half cup of Chex mix, half cup of popcorn & probably 10 hersheys kisses. The only other bar snack was $70 caviar & a mini pie. Again, vibes were a 5 & we came during the holiday menu. I would be willing to give it another try, but wouldn't be my first choice for a night out with other great places in town. read more

Hell or High Water - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

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Drinks and atmosphere were such a cool vibe!! The bartender was so knowledgeable and came up with a great drink for me to try.

Yep, this is the full on speakeasy experience. First you get to find the entrance, which can be quite confusing. Then you have to get past the door man... better have your ID ready regardless of your age and I highly recommend reservations. When you are granted entrance, try to make your way down some dimly lit stairs and through a long dark corridor. Now try to make it past the hostess... Luckily we had reservations and her attitude changed for the better quickly. A friend of us had hooked us up with a private room. So now we were guided through the main room, shown the rest rooms along the way, back up the stairs, making our way along the balcony seating and came to the end of that section. And then she opened a closet, which turned out to be our little private room. How cool is that? As the hostess left she closed the door behind her and this must b e sound proof as it shut out all the noise from the rest of the patrons. Our room had a love seat, a couple of arm chairs and stools. Of course dimly lit as the rest of the establishment. There was a window where we could overlook the main room downstairs and watch the guests. Talk about ambiance. After taking our order and serving our drinks and snacks, our server showed us a call button, since she would leave us alone now. It surprised me until she told me that some folks bring their love interest to the private rooms for some alone time and do not wish to be disturbed. Oooohhhh. Well disturb us any time, we are here for drinks and snacks. The cocktails list is impressive, expensive, but so well done that we didn't mind the premium prices. They are also a rather heavy pour, so well worth it. The snacks fell under that same category, but were equally delicious. In short, have your ID ready, make reservations, and if you can afford it, check out their private rooms or other elevated seating. And don't forget to check out the wall paper in the rest rooms. It is interesting. read more

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There are only small plates available. Make sure you eat before you come. This is the perfect place to end your night. The service was impeccable. It was my birthday and we got there before the rush came in this speakeasy isn't too noisy and has a 1920s vibe. (Maybe even more dated than that) it's a must go for a beautifully crafted drink. read more

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We were visiting town for my husbands Birthday and our wedding anniversary, a little get away trip down the bourbon trail. Our favorite thing to do is to visit a speakeasy in the cities that we visit and Hell or Highwater came up but had mixed reviews. We reserved a spot a couple weeks in advance and put into the reservations details that it was our anniversary. I also sent an email as I was not sure if we would be better suited in the Library or at the bar. I described the vibe we like and our plans for the evening (we like to play scrabble and have a few cocktails and people watch) They never responded to the email. When we arrived the front door welcomer was sitting in the small room with the door open and music blasting on their phone. They asked if we had a reservation and looked at our IDs and sent us downstairs. We went down and the next person at the velvet rope again asked us if we had a reservation and for our name. We were seated at the bar. The bar is nice but it's loud from the bar tenders talking to each other and doing dishes, other bars we've been to is loud from making drinks and the bar tenders talking to the customers. It didn't have the same client centered vibe we are used to. (And the chair wasn't comfy for me) I looked around and found an empty corner table in the library and asked the host if we could move. She was able to move us and I thoroughly enjoyed the vibe in the library and our waitress was delightful. No one mentioned our birthday or anniversary that was within the reservation, the vibe was not was expected, and I'm disappointed with the lack of response from our initial outreach and phone calls. We might try returning again but I think the follow through on customer service could be improved overall. read more

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Great bar with an amazing atmosphere. Their Elijah Craig barrel select was a delicious pour. We also tried a couple cocktails which were both amazing! Definitely worth checking out the next time you're on Whiskey Row. read more

Hell or High Water - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

So cool inside, all the drinks were great. Drinks start at about $16. It took a while to order our drinks and to get our drinks even though it wasn't super busy. Everything was well worth the wait though. Obviously it's a speakeasy so the only way you can tell where the location is from the street is a sticker for the hours on the window near the entrance. Definitely would recommend going! read more

Incredible spot I'd go again. Very relaxing and moody. Next time I'll have to try more drinks

We reserved the private library space for our daughter's wedding and we had a wonderful experience. The staff was very helpful and allowed us to come in early to set up flowers. They rearranged the space to accommodate the wedding and guests. The drinks we agreed on in the contract were delicious and they were happy to make the cocktails alcohol free for those guests who were nondrinkers. Overall, we had a lovely experience, and I would certainly recommend the venue. read more

We always have a great time here. Super cool vibes, the drinks are always incredible and the service is friendly and helpful. This is a spot I recommend taking those who may be visiting Louisville read more

Hell or High Water - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

Okay AMAZING! Just saying! The atmosphere is so cool and the drinks were very well balanced and very good. If in the library look for the secret book and leave a little something behind. The drinks are a little higher priced but they were very good and not all fluff. Give this place a try read more

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Awesome dove with great drinks. The service was on point. Need to try the food next time but we were in a rush

Ask for Dakota!!!!! She was incredible. I am somewhat picky and didn't find anything I loved on the menu so she made me something custom and it was the best drink I ever had. After that she encouraged me to try one of the menu items that was out of my comfort zone. I ended up not liking it so she took it off our bill and made me something else. Absolutely awesome. If you go at 5ish you can walk in but I'd make reservations for anything later. read more

I have been to Hell or Highwater twice now and have really enjoyed both visits. Once we randomly stumbled upon it a few years ago while have a night out downtown and most recently on New Years Eve to not only ring in the New Year but to also celebrate our Wedding Anniversary. The first time we checked it out we did not make a reservation as I mentioned we randomly stumbled upon it by word of mouth and ended up waiting the hour and a half to get in (we just went to another bar until they called us) so this time I was sure to make Reservations and was pleasantly surprised there were several options available. I selected to sit at the bar since it was just the two of us, and even though we arrived a little early they got us right in. We sat down and were greeted almost immediately; we could hear a Jazz band playing in the background however we could not see them but still enjoyed the entertainment. I was slightly surprised they still had their Christmas cocktail menu available and was hoping for something a little different, lets be honest once Christmas has passed and you've been to some of the Christmas pop-up bars in town, I was over the Christmas type drinks LOL, but the drinks were good regardless. My husband got a pour of Elijah Craif which was their barrel picked Bourbon, and he really enjoyed it. I got one of the Christmas cocktails however the menu has now changed, and I cannot remember what my first drink was. My 2nd drink however definitely stood out as it was a Mezcal cocktail served in the teacup and saucer that was only available on the Yuletide menu. They offered a Champagne toast at midnight which I thought was really cool and also offered Caviar specials which we did not partake in. We really enjoyed the evening even though it was super low key. It wasn't jam packed, we didn't have to scream to hear each talk and we were able to converse some with the bartenders which we both enjoyed. read more

A beautiful speakeasy with its own private entrance down some stairs... the decor and ambiance feel very warm and cozy. They have a ton of liquor, so if you don't see a cocktail that you like, the bartender can definitely make one. read more

11 months later back again! Celebrating birthday early and engagement, same staff from the last visit. They are wonderful, friendly and attentive! Will likely make this an annual tradition every time we visit the bourbon trail. The last time we visited I only gave 4 stars due to having a reservation and getting sat at the bar, this visit we didn't have a reservation and again were placed at the bar. Would've enjoyed being sat in the library but enjoyed being social at the bar with the staff. Will be back next year! Definitely not a place for food but great places nearby! Ambiance is welcoming and cozy! read more

Hell or High Water - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

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Great drink menu and 1920s vibe! Yuletide isn't a Christmas pop up but nonetheless this great place to get cocktail cozy in the wintertime

Hell or High Water is a cocktail lounge with a speakeasy kind of vibe, and my sister and I thought it would be a fun to dress up and go for cocktails. The website gave the impression that seating was limited and reservations were highly recommended, so we made a reservation on a Thursday night (after our dinner at Repeal), as they have live jazz on Thursdays. Surprisingly, the place wasn't very busy and was half empty the entire time we were there. We each had two cocktails. I had "First Blush" (Harahorn Gin, Cobrafire, Absinthe, Raspberry Syrup) and "Strawberry Fields" (Gin, Campari, Peach Liqueur, Strawberry, Lemon, Egg White) and my sister had "Spring Forward" (Rhuberry Gin, Sea Legs, Lemon, Simple, Raspberry Rose Sod) and "William Morris" (Spring Gin Infusion, St. Germaine, Caffo Maraschino, Lemon, Hibiscus Foam). We enjoyed all the cocktails. Surprisingly, the cocktails were reasonably priced, ranging from $14 to $18 (I know that's not cheap, but that's the standard price these days, and in some places, prices range from $18 to nearly $30!). All our drinks were $15. While we liked the cocktails, Hell or High Water wasn't anything special. The way it's set up, we weren't in the same room as the jazz band and couldn't even see them. The place was pretty dead, and the service wasn't great -- it took a while to flag down the server to order another round of drinks. Hell or High Water is a good place for cocktails, but I did have higher expectations. [Yelp collections: Louisville/Indianapolis 2023; Louisville, KY 2023] read more

We reserved the room over looking the library which was super cute and we were able to talk and have a good time. The cocktails were awesome and we loved them! Our server was great and she was very helpful when we needed to order something. This is a speakeasy so it's very unassuming at the street, but once you are in, it's very pretty and has good vibes. If you do reserve a table (which you should) they have multiple reservations so you might get a gentle reminder that you have limited time left. It is a super unique space and I highly recommend you check it out if you are in Louisville! read more

Hell or High Water - Wall paper in the bathroom haha - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

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I love a speakeasy. This one requires reservations. The staff was very friendly and personable. My husband really enjoyed his drink. He said it was one of the best drinks he has had. We went Black Friday evening and was informed of the Repeal Party. We attended the event and was a good time. Loved the vibe. They had a photobooth and we were able to sample some Heavenly Hill bourbon. read more

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Great speakeasy experience. Definitely worth seeking out. No sign on front door... and apparently hit or miss whether you're going to get in... but... a great vibe. All the cocktails are expertly mixed and the bourbon and rye list is substantial and reasonably priced. The decor is on point and the service outstanding. IMO it's worth seeking out and checking out. read more

At first, we couldn't find the door. They have a small light with the logo on it, but it was out. We had an early reservation, and were seated promptly. Unfortunately, our seats were under 2 glaring lights. We ordered our cocktails and the Trio small bites. The cocktails were good but a little overpriced. The trio was a complete waste of money. $15 for a small portion of mixed nuts, potato chips and green olives. I expected a little more than that. Not even presented well. read more

We love this place so much, we went both nights we were in town. The ambience was perfect for a date night while visiting Louisville. The first night we grabbed bar seats, fell in love with it, and put a reservation in for the second night. We mentioned to the bartender that we were newlyweds in conversation, and they hooked us up with a great spot for night 2. There is not a bad spot in the place, and the drinks are so good! read more

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I went here for my 21st birthday and it was the perfect place! We booked an upstairs room for a more intimate setting. Drinks were good but you are definitely going for the ambiance. read more

I was expecting so much more. Drinks were OK, server brought one incorrect drink, ambiance is really only a red couches. Not nearly dark enough for a speakeasy. Server wasn't really "in character" which is OK I guess. Did not eat anything, but overall would not go back. Not many folks in there at all on the night that we went. read more

This place is an absolute gem! I love the dimly lit, sexy, and romantic atmosphere. Although it's clearly known by many, it still feels like I'm sneaking into a hidden spot that no one else is aware of. The charcuterie boards are delicious, and the drinks I've tried have been equally impressive! Service is always lovely, attentive & make the experience easy & enjoyable! read more

Hell or High Water - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

The concept and space were very cool and liked the live jazz. Service was hospitable and friendly. The cocktails were however just okay. It was fine for a regular bar, but based on our past speakeasy experiences they didn't measure up. read more

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This speakeasy did not disappoint. The decor, couches and chairs, wall decorations, chandeliers all made you think you stepped back in time to a classy 1920's gin joint. Our waitress was outstanding I wish I could remember her name. Very knowledgeable and personable. The drinks were eclectic but good. I think our group sampled everything on the menu. If you get the chance visit this place read more

This is actually my second time to HOHW. I was here a few months ago and was actually my first time ever in a speakeasy. Very relaxing atmosphere and a great place just to sit and socialize with a drink. We had seven of us and our Greater and waitress was very attentive. We initially just stopped in because I wanted to show the group I was with this time, the ambience of the location here. We went back upstairs because we were on our way to another location and we turned right back around and decided to stay. Just really a neat place to hang out with great drinks. Never been here on the weekend, but I would imagine it's pretty busy. I was even ask if I had reservations when we first walked in. I would definitely give this place a try. read more

Hell or High Water - Lemon drop martinis, and one of their specialty drinks. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

My wife and I went here for the first time 3 days ago and we are back to night. This is a true speakeasy! The vibe is romantic and nostalgic. The service and the drinks were amazing enough to bring us back just 3 days later. We didn't try any food last visit, but can't wait to. read more

Such a fun experience and great service. This will be a staple every time we are in town.

The drinks were made incredibly well. Unique liquor selection, well balanced cocktails. The service was phenomenal, we sat at the bar and talked to the bartenders and they were both great. The mood lighting and cute decor were the cherry on top. Great place 10/10 would visit again. read more

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Drinks were good! I enjoyed my cocktail and so did my husband. The atmosphere is very "romantic" is how I would put it. There isn't a lot of mingling in the establishment because they sit you at your own table and the speakeasy has a few rooms. Definitely a cool vibe. We sat in the "library" area which was quiet and intimate. We could see the bar from our spot which was fun. This would be a good place to come with a group or if you wanted some quiet time to chat with your significant other. Drinks were decently priced. Our waitress was kind and attentive. You have to have a reservation to come here. read more

Hell or High Water - Dew dropper & calling card no.1 - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

Great vibe - love the decor and style of this spot. Cocktails were fabulous. I got the gin garden drink to start and it was smoky and spicy and so unique, absolutely loved it. The aviation was great as well. My friends loved their paper planes and my husband was obsessed with his mezcal marg. Def a fun spot to check out with friends for a night cap - we will be back! read more

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This is such a great cocktail bar! We came here earlier this month while visiting Louisville with some friends and we had a fantastic time. We arrived when it opened at 5, so it was quiet and we were able to relax downstairs. We tried several of the cocktails including the Cherry on Top and the Come into the Garden, both of which were absolutely delicious. Service was amazingly attentive and they refilled our water as fast as we were drinking it, which was a great touch as well. The ambiance here is wonderful as well and it's cozy as well as sophisticated. We loved coming here and would definitely return again! read more

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Great speakeasy with classic and creative cocktails! Beautiful ambiance, interesting servers and a great place for fun. Pro tip: don't miss out on the wallpaper in the ladies room! read more

Hell or High Water - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Louisville, Kentucky

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Stumbled upon this gem and let's say it was the highlight of our weekend. First and foremost we came in a way that was a mystery to everyone but Joseph, Eden Jade and Lindsay treated us like we were family. The staff were overwhelmingly good, Eden Jade and her mixologist skills and positive energy made you not want to leave let alone go home. The place had an amazing vibe, music was great for the space and noise level was perfect. Get a reservation and go! read more