What a fun night! Came here with a couple of girlfriends. Started at the little lounge area, but soon took the party to the bar when we ran into another yelpie! Don't let the outside of this place fool you because looks are definitely deceiving. We were cautious coming to this place due to the appearance of the outside, but once we were in it was so much fun. Agus, aka rawbartender, was Ah-mazing and truly made the night fun. He was truly such a vibe!! I ordered the SpongeBob, which was Goslings rum, pineapple spice, ginger, lime, angostura bitters. Especially with the show that was put on, my drink tasted even better. It was a Smokey, yet smooth and refreshing drink! We also got the Snow White, on the sweeter side made with Pear vodka, orgeat, pear juice, lemon juice, cinnamon. And of course, we can't forget our schooling in tequila and Mezcal from Agus. He was very informative of what he was serving and we tried a few different shots. He gave us the rundown of how you're actually supposed to taste tequila. And I have to say I've never had an experience like that before. I wish the party didn't stop and I will definitely be coming back specifically for Agus and of course the drinks! read more

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Finally got to check out this hidden speakeasy in new Britain ! If you're looking for a fun night with the girls , a cozy date or just wanna grab a drink this is the place ! The code to enter is updated daily on the website , once inside the you enter through the bookcase door. The ambiance is nice cozy , low -moderate lighting ( not to dim ..you can still read the menus without a flashlight... which is nice) We sat at the bar and the seats were very nice and comfortable ( which I enjoyed a lot) and spacious I didn't feel squeezed between chairs/people ! The bartender was fabulous . And made great drinks ! We just got drinks I got the peaches peaches which was pleasantly really good not to sweat or bitter , not to overpowering with peach flavour very well balanced . They also offer small bites / food. I will def be back to try some more options ! read more

I Know You Know - Atmosphere - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New Britain, Connecticut

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This bar is truly a hidden gem in New Britain. It might be in a part of town that's a little rough, but just walk past a few people hanging around outside and go inside and you'll be glad you did. The second you get through the door, it feels like a totally different world than Arch Street. The craft cocktails are unreal, the presentation is insane, and every drink feels like it was made with actual care and creativity. The staff is always welcoming, attentive, and spot-on with recommendations. I've been coming here since college and it has never disappointed. It's one of those places you bring people to when you want to impress them, and it always delivers. I highly recommend checking it out, and while you're at it, stop by their sister restaurant down the street, The Assembly Room, it's just as incredible in its own way. read more

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This is a great spot for a date night! The drinks are exotic and all are delicious. The tapas are extremely delicious and also unique! The seating is nice and it has a very cool speak easy vibe read more

A cool speakeasy that my friend introduced me to. The owners were friendly and I would absolutely come back. I came close to closing and I wish I could have come a little bit earlier... that being said, it is a small place and space is limited! The service was friendly and prices were fair. Drinks were well-made and tasty. I would come back except I'm not often in the area. Note they have another location and I definitely intend to stop by there too! I've heard it bears a different "theme" but I can't remember what. read more

Great drinks, food and service! I ordered the riot riot and then the ya Tu sabe drinks. Also shared the American sliders and truffle tater tots. I loved the atmosphere here. No TVs on or loud music bumping. The lights were dim and it set a good mood! read more

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We first came to this speakeasy cocktail bar for my husband's birthday. We really liked the ambiance and drinks so we have since returned multiple times . It's a nice atmosphere to go out and have some drinks somewhere classy . Higher vibrations only lol. read more

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Cool new space in the middle of the central area of New Britain that is right down the street from The Assembly Room and Five Churches. Entering behind a bookcase you will walk into the speakeasy where you can hope to get a nook like we did or make a reservation for the couches or tables. The bar was completely filled with high top chairs for patrons to chat while at the bar. Ordered drinks to start our night out in New Britain. I would say that prices for food was a little overpriced for my comfort and with Mofongos and the Assembly Room nearby I would prefer to head there. Enjoyed the Good One along with the Life Free or Rye which were bourbon and Rye drinks respectively. Both were well balanced, presented nicely and got us on the right foot for the start of the night. read more

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This was my first visit and I loved the vibe. It's trendy, low key, and mysterious! I'm an old fashioned kinda guy and I tried 2 different styles old fashions and I just couldn't go wrong. They were so tasty! The service was prompt and the bar was clean and orderly, and I wouldn't have expected anything less! Well Done staff of IKYK! I'll be back read more

I Know You Know - Espresso martini - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New Britain, Connecticut

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Fun, old school atmosphere speakeasy (sshhh). Very small area handful of tables and about a dozen seats at the bar. Got a few appetizers which were okay. The drinks were great, average price is $15 per drink. Bartenders are fun and do some tricks. Only issue with the service is we got a few drinks and the server spilled a bit on the table and didn't apologize or try to remake or top of the drink which I was a little disappointed with. But overall I will return again. 4/5 read more

I Know You Know - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New Britain, Connecticut

We had a TIME!! This gem really left us with all smiles this past Saturday night! My friend's kept talking about the speakeasy in New Britain so hubs and I decided to give it a try. I must admit, the location wasn't the most desirable however, this space itself made up for it! You're suppose to use a passcode that you get from their Instagram story in order to open the door however, when we arrived, the door was slightly ajar, so we just walked right in. It would've been nice to use the passcode. The owners should probably look into a spring-close door to keep the cool concept going! Once we walked in, we were greeted with smiles and wonderful service! We decided to take two seats at the bar and ordered some specialty cocktails. Our favorites were the Old Fashions and the Bee's Knees - DELICIOUS! For bites, we decided to go with the Cuban Sliders and the Truffle tater tots. The Cuban sliders were some of the best Cubans we've ever had! Filled with moist pulled pork, sweet griddled ham, Swiss, fresh pickles and a mustard aïoli - YUM! You can tell the tater tots were made to order because they came out nice and hot, which we appreciated. They could however use a-lot more Truffle flavor. The jazz music gave a great vibe! We loved it! And the mirror in the ladies restroom....PERFECT selfie opt! We left out super happy and cannot wait to go back! This place is a MUST try! read more

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Ambiance was really fun. Started to get hopping around 7:45. We made reservation online but you didn't have to. Drinks were yummy! Empanadas are a MUST! We will be back :) read more

I Know You Know - Good old one Beef Empanadas - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New Britain, Connecticut

Love this place, it's a modern day speak easy, you need to pull the code to get in off the IG page. Then proceed through the bookcase, recommend going early, it starts to get busy at 6. We ordered some specialty cocktails, grabbed the best seat in the house (which is usually a bar at most places) however here it's two couches and a fire! The plantain nachos were some of the most intriguing things I have had. The chips don't get soggy so they have a nice crunch! The queso Frito was good, the cheese wasn't what I thought it would be , it was still a little cold and squeaky, still good but I was hoping for a gooey cheese pull. This was a cold center and very firm. Still tasty! The olives are the star of the show, they are not just olives , they were warmed, had a little oil, herbs and lemon zest/peel. We devoured them. If it wasn't so busy we would have gotten more to home! They weee so tasty! The drinks were good, did not taste that strong, not saying they do or don't water them down or don't put a lot of booze in them but I had 4 drinks and didn't even have a buzz. That is our only complaint. Usually 3/4 and I'm good of the same caliber drink. The ambiance is a really quaint/quiet scene, lots of books, the windows covered so it's pretty dark, service was also amazing. read more

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This was a very fun place to go to looking for a speakeasy. You need a code to get into the secret passageway and the door will open. You're greeted and they give assistance with finding tables. There's a large bar where you can stand around and there are tables couchesin different seating. We were at the bar for a little while to order our drinks and then we were offered the two couches near the fireplace.. It's very dark so some of my photos did not come out as well. Music is playing. It's a cool vibe. I really enjoyed. The drink I can see Brandy now. we all had drinks and some food. I had the mushroom Cristini dish. It was delicious. There was a lot of different types of textured mushrooms with really good flavor. My only critique is that I wish there were more crust. I only received three and there was a lot more mushrooms my friend got the tater tots and they were covered with queso fresco and pico. She stated she really enjoyed it, but wasn't able to finish it. It was a lot for one person. Two friends shared the plantain nachos. They ate it all, however the plantains were store-bought chips and everything was room temperature except the shrimp was warm. They would've liked like a warm cheese sauce or something like that on there. My other friend ate the roasted cauliflower but stated it did not taste roasted but rather steamed. Overall, we had a really great time and enjoyed our drinks and the atmosphere. Would recommend to experience it.. read more

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I've been to this spot about five times now, and unfortunately, every single time I've had to deal with the same bartender (the man who wears glasses) who is consistently angry, rude, and disrespectful. He ignores guests when they're trying to get his attention, and if you ask for something specific, he'll flat out tell you "no" instead of trying to accommodate or at least explain why. It's honestly shocking how dismissive and unprofessional he is. What's really frustrating is that this is actually a nice place with a good vibe, but the customer service is a 0/10 because of him. One time I was lucky enough to be helped by another bartender who was genuinely kind and welcoming--but I never saw him again. Instead, it's always back to dealing with Mr. Rude, who clearly hates his job. I have never in my life encountered someone in hospitality with such a terrible attitude. He either needs serious training in customer service--or to be replaced altogether. It's upsetting because this place has potential, but his behavior ruins the entire experience. read more

This speakeasy is amazing. The vibes inside are beautiful, the drinks are amazing and the bite size appetizers are delicious. They allow reservations which is great. The passcode is on their Instagram to gain access read more

Nice low key spot. Getting in is fun (interesting) cuz of the "code" but when we went we didn't need the code so not as fun. Staff was friendly. Low lighting which I think is nice for a bar setting. Drink choices on the menu weren't the best. I ended up getting a drink not on the menu. I got a cosmo and I do have to say it was one of the best cosmos I've had so I was happy for that. Other than that not sure if I'd be back. It was average. Nothing crazy. read more

There is something fun and nostalgic about prohibition and speakeasy's and they do a great job trying to capture that. The staff here is welcoming and proud of what they put forward. We tried a few items off the drink menu and were happy with each one including Pinocchio's Thong and Cafe Frais. Don't pass up on the kitchen either! Great small bites to enjoy with your cocktails. Try the calamari and olives for sure! read more

I Know You Know - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New Britain, Connecticut

The drinks were all fantastic, some creative takes on classic cocktails. The food was equally wonderful, incredibly flavorful. The most disappointing thing we ordered were the empanadas which were bland in comparison to the powerful flavors offered by everything else. Our server was very kind and charismatic, she offered up some recommendations on drinks and kindly refilled water during our stay. I will be back. This is an awesome addition to hard hittin'. read more

I Know You Know - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New Britain, Connecticut

Had a great time and great drinks here! We went for a couple drinks before dinner since we had reservations close and I really loved this place. I love the whole speakeasy vibe and the 'secret' code to get in and the look of this bar. Dimly lit, upscale old bar look is one of my favorites. We went around 4:20 on a Saturday and there were a couple tables but nothing crazy. The bartender were very nice and attentive - I will be going back! I recommend the drink with the red wine float (can't remember the name - second picture) but it was amazing! read more

I Know You Know - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New Britain, Connecticut

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Food and service was Outstanding ambiance was good I would go back for sure the people was amazing they made us feel like we were the only ones there very happy read more

I Know You Know - Had the best dinner ever for my husband birthday - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New Britain, Connecticut

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Vibes were weird. Manager seemed a little racist. Food was okay. I wouldn't come back, nothing special about it. Also he was weird about taking pictures in front of the door. Strange place and strange people. read more

I Know You Know - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New Britain, Connecticut

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Fun spot! I love the whole concept. Get the code and head on in through the magic entranceway. Inside, it legit looks like an old prohibition era hang out. Fireplace and all. Drinkwise- I would definitely go with the Riot Riot! Foodwise- I heard great things about the Cuban and tots! The service was on point. Greeted right away and drinks came out lickity split. Such a fun spot and I can't wait to head back there sometime soon. Cheers to a great reason to head back to New Britain soon! read more

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It's unfortunate that this place is closed on Tuesdays because yesterday, Monday, was my first visit, and I cannot wait to go back! A true speakeasy in the sense that you need a code to get in and there's a secret door. The ambience in here is impeccable. Everything is beautiful, yet cozy, and the bar chairs are so sleek and comfortable. If you like craft cocktails, you've found your place. In a time when everyone that throws together margarita calls himself a "craft cocktail bar" it's so nice to find the real deal. These bartenders are experts, combining ingredients that I would never think to put together, never remind some I've never even heard of. I do not like whiskey or bourbon, and my friend convinced me to get a drink with bourbon in it, and I was blown away. The flavors were delicious, but I did not have that bourbon taste at all. In addition, the small plates are delectable. Definitely get the brussels sprouts. Hope to see you there on my next visit.... which will be very soon. Cheers! read more

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I Know You Know is a brand new bar in New Britain, you will need to have a code to enter, I got it by word of mouth. This code will change weekly. Once inside the first entrance, you will come across a book shelf secret door that will grant you access to this speakeasy with the comfiest bar stools, and a real fire burning in their fireplace. I immediately loved the vibe of this place, it's dark, and a bit mysterious, with so much clever detail. I quickly recognized the bartender, Marlon, I recognized him from The Industrial. Another fun local space, but I like I Know You Know much better. My friend and I were seated at the bar. These are really nice bar stools, they're quilted and cushiny. The place was super busy, we were lucky we got seats at the bar. I got The Hive, this was very tasty, a little tart and a little strong! I watched Marlon craft it. It's base was gin. My friend loved her Breakfast cocktail. Their food menu is small, but both of the items we got were delicious. We got a ricotta toast topped with honey, fresh blueberries, basil and walnuts. What a unique combo of ingredients. This was sweet and crunchy! Yum! The other thing we got were the brussels sprouts. These were also really tasty. The goat cheese privided some light sweetness, as did the balsamic. We both really enjoyed these. It was a great first time at I Know You Know. I love the secret entrances, it is so relaxing, the music is soft so you can still hear each other. The bathroom is all gold and totally fits the vibe. I can't wait to be back! read more

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Classy, elegant and chic! This is an amazing place for a romantic evening, or a night out with friends. Shout out to our bartender who went above and beyond when I asked if he could make a mocktail out of any cocktails on the menu, and he whipped up that virgin strawberry fields! Also, food menu is tapas style--excellent quality! read more

I Know You Know - Tater tots (left), Cuban sliders (back), and Queso Frito (right) - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New Britain, Connecticut

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The atmosphere is perfect, the bar is gorgeous. The staff is fun, friendly, and engaging. The craft cocktails are PERFECT! I'm a bit of a snob when it comes to this and IKYK has knocked it out of the park with every drink I've tried so far. Very accommodating if you have an off-menu drink you'd prefer, you don't have to worry about your bartender giving you a funny look and desperately googling a classic cocktail read more

I Know You Know - "Dancing With El Diablo" a very forward, well balanced spin on a Black Manhattan. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New Britain, Connecticut

We've been wanting to try I Know You Know since it opened, and I'm so glad we finally made it here! It's a beautiful speakeasy, where you can find the passcode nightly on instagram. We had a couple drinks- my favorite was the clarified peach called peaches peaches! We also tried the royal passion, which I highly recommend. We then had the burrata and mango appetizer and chicken empanadas. Both were super flavorful and insanely fresh. Overall, it's a fun spot with a cool vibe. Definitely check it out. read more

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TALK ABOUT COOL!!! You get the code from their Instagram story. Not going to lie when I first walked up to the place I wasn't quite sure what I was getting into. Punched the number into the number pad on the door. When you walk inside all you see if a bookshelf, then you notice the handle on the door handle. Brace yourself because the once you open that bookcase you're walking into another world! SUCH a gorgeous little bar. We tried about 4 different drinks and each one was somehow better than the last. Not to be outdone the food was also incredible. Our waiter was just the best. He was so friendly and super helpful with drink and food suggestions. This place is such a cool little experience. Make sure to stop in the bathroom, it's also stunning! read more

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What an fabulous new addition to New Britain! Our very own speakeasy on this side of the river! We love how the business engages with patrons and refers them to their insta-stories in order to get the secret code to unlock the door. Entering the space through the bookcase tickles omens curiosity and leads to a cozy spaces that screams Prohibition but also mature and sexy. The owners are so attentive and make sure each customers truly enjoys their experience. The Signature Cocktails: The Club Clubber and The Hive-not lacking in alcohol and were the perfect sized adult beverage. Their tapas we enjoyed were: American Sliders Brussels Sprouts Empanadas-Beef and Chicken Ricotta Toast with Blueberries and Honey Tater Tots Parmesan Truffle They were the perfect compliment to the cocktails! It's a MUST for date night!! read more

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The speakeasy theme was very cute and on brand, and the food and drinks were excellent. Breakfast was sunshine in a glass--I could've had 10 read more

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Did you get the code ? If you know you know , literally went for drinks stayed for food. I tripped across this speakeasy on a after work day! They did not disappoint, you better get there! Service was good , ambiance unmatched. read more

I Know You Know - Truffle tots - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New Britain, Connecticut

I absolutely love the speakeasy vibe so when I saw this bar on a CT food & restaurant Instagram page, I knew I had to check it out. My friend and I visited IKYK on a Thursday. When we arrived around 6pm, there was already an hour wait! We put our name in for the waitlist and the hostess kindly referred us to their sister bar which was a 5 minute walk from IKYK. We were called about 45 minutes later and at that point we were in the middle of an appetizer at the other bar, so IKYK held our spot for us for about 15-20 minutes which we really appreciated. When we were brought inside, we were greeted with a dark, moody atmosphere, lively patrons, and some jazzy dance music. We were seated at the bar, but the bar seats were so comfortable, it felt like I was sitting in a lounge chair. They were also large enough that I didn't feel like I was bumping up against the person next to me. We tried 4 different drinks off the cocktail menu. My favorite was the Tom Collins, but each drink was delicious. We also had the tajin tater tots and the Brussels sprouts, also delicious! I really appreciated that the tater tots were not overly greasy. My critiques: service was a little slow; we didn't feel the bartenders were very attentive. They were super busy, so I totally get it, but I would definitely have appreciated being asked how we were doing and/or seeing if we needed anything much sooner and more often (we were there almost 3 hours and were only asked maybe 1-2 times). Because it was so busy and loud, it was hard to get the bartender's attention. The only other recommendation I have is that the bar install more speakers to even out the music in the space. If I'm not mistaken, there was only 1 speaker and it was at the end of the bar towards the back, so anyone sitting in the front area of the bar probably didn't hear the music. I would definitely go back again. I wouldn't arrive on an empty stomach! read more

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Great service, top notch cocktails and Tapas Secret entrance makes it very fun. Owners are very down to earth. Great place for an impressive 1st date. read more

I Know You Know - Bar area - Cocktail Bars Near Me - New Britain, Connecticut

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This place is awesome. Fantastic drinks! It has that old school feel and vibe. Very cool! I also had the empanada which was really good. My first time there and I'll definitely be back. This is a must stop for anybody in or passing through the area. read more

This place is the talk of the town! Working in New Britain, a few coworkers and I got "the code" to come to this new speakeasy. (You can find it on Facebook posted daily) After entering the code, there is a disguised bookshelf, which is the actual door entrance. So cool! You walk up a staircase into a dark brick exposed room with leather couches, a fireplace, a full bar, and dining room seating for a cozy yet sophisticated vibe. I tried the Royal Passion cocktail, which was a mix of tequila and bourbon, and was quite delightful in taste and was also esthetically pleasing. We ordered a bunch of tapas to try including tator tots, empanadas, burger sliders calamari, brussel sprouts, queso frito, and my favorite was the plantain chips served with a pesto and aioli. The waitress made sure our drinks were filled and that we were all set. It was a good time hanging out with coworkers trying the small plates and having a cocktail, but I would definitely go back for a date night instead. read more

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Used to love this place, but their new bartender is terrible. Served us their specialty drinks half-full with the garnish missing (so, $16 for two tablespoons of cocktail) and charged the non-drinker in the group $10 for a soda water. We won't be back. read more

I'm not a fan of the food , as it lacks flavor. I also feel like the portions are way too small for their price. If you are looking for a STRONG drink, though, they've got you covered. read more

This is such a unique concept for a cocktail bar in our area. I've been to a fair amount of restaurants and bars all around CT but this place is truly unique. To get in, you need to obtain a code which changes daily and is given out on their social media pages/stories. Once you enter the code, you are inside the vestibule area where you will be greeted by a host who will let you know if there is seating availability, etc. To enter the actual bar there is secret door/bookcase that opens up. The bar inside is so nicely done. It's dimly lit, cool black fireplace, exposed brick walls, tin ceiling, beautiful bar.. all around just a modern vibe. The cocktail list is very interesting and creative. It's not boring or typical at all. Again, it's unique and the owners clearly took the time to develop some amazing pairings. My husband and I loved our drinks. Mine was the Club Clubber with raspberry, egg whites, and lemon. Absolutely delicious. Refreshing. Bright. And it's super fun to watch them create these drinks. The bartenders certainly have mastered their craft. We also had a quick bite as we were on our way to dinner. We chose beef empanadas because - delish! And they were crispy, flavorful, and a perfect accompaniment with our cocktails. Definitely check this place out. It's just a different and attractive concept and keeps things interesting for a twist on a date night out. read more

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The place is really cool for CT! It's a speakeasy w a hidden door. You have to know the code to get in- I heard it's listed on social media and changes everyday! My friend got the code and we came on a Friday. The small eats were tasty and the drinks are classy and fancy. The interior is very nice, dark fireplace and beautiful bar w a lot of seats. Totally a great date place for couples too! read more

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