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    The Black Squirrel Bookstore

    4.9 (13 reviews)
    Closed Closed
    Updated 1 week ago

    The Black Squirrel Bookstore Photos

    THE BLACK SQUIRREL BOOKSTORE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Happy hour specials
    Outdoor seating

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    Speakeasy
    Mia K.

    A spectacular completely unexpected hidden gem in the beautiful town of St Cloud Florida. As you walk into the front doors, it looks you are walking into a bookstore with all a variety of nostalgic items for purchase. As your progress back there's a bookshelf it's a special one that will take you through to the other side which therein lies the cutest quaintest speakeasy I have ever seen. Currently it is decorated inside as a nostalgic Christmas scene something from the mid 1960s --70s! They serve wine and beer at the bar however I will say you'd be surprised it's not just always the typical wines that you would receive or think you would see. I love espresso martinis and there I was served one but it was made with wine instead. Very neat to have that experience with them. I wouldn't have known as a better but I knew how delicious that it tasted I had to find out what it was made with. Now I won't tell their secret but you will have to go to try I promise you will like it. And if you're not an espresso fan there is definitely a wide variety of wines and beers for others to choose. The environment itself is just spectacular to sit there enjoy whether you're with a couple of friends or a group of people. This one surprised me! Make sure you make this a stop while you are staying or just passing through sweet St. Cloud, Florida!

    My winning card
    Felicia B.

    The Black Squirrel hosted a Glo Bingo Night (saw it on Facebook). I really didn't expect much it's just your regular bingo night boy was I wrong!! The event started at 6:30pm so my friend and I showed up at 6:25pm the door was locked no worries we were 5 mins early. Another group of ladies showed up behind us and after waiting another 2 mins she asked if we rang the doorbell. We said no because why would I think to ring the doorbell if the event started at 6:30 so, she pressed the doorbell and just like that someone came to the door (WHO KNEW)!! We are finally in she scans our QR code because you had to pre register. Now while outside the place looks empty no one is there so I'm thinking it's going to be a full night UNTIL she opened a secret door that lead us to another room. THE PLACED WAS ALMOST PACKED!! The decor , neon lights, great music was playing and the bartender Aubrey was amazing!! The bingo host (I forgot her name) but she was great too. We didn't order food but they partnered up with a couple of the other local restaurants nearby to order from. Fun night I did win a $25 gift card to use at another visit.

    Beautiful chandelier
    Erin G.

    Cute speakeasy in the back of the Cloud 9 store. Solve 3 clues to gain entry. They are still open when the store is closed. There is a doorbell to gain entry. Cute lounge with a glitzy interior which is appealing and comfortable at the same time. They have a player piano that looks like a baby grand. Service was prompt and the menu offers several choices for beer and wine. Also available is several different sizes of charcuterie platters. We had a sangria as part of a St. Cloud Art and Food festival. I definitely want to return and spend some time to enjoy the ambiance and wine list.

    Campfire-squirrel
    Matt O.

    Great Speakeasy vibe. The room is well decorated, owner is friendly and knowledgeable and the bartender (mixologist) was great. A place to you want come and relax. Don't pass this up if you are in the area.

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    Review Highlights - The Black Squirrel Bookstore

    Another group of ladies showed up behind us and after waiting another 2 mins she asked if we rang the doorbell.

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    Phyre Brewery & Tavern - Ribeye

    Phyre Brewery & Tavern

    4.4(204 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$

    We had an outstanding experience at this steakhouse. The steaks were cooked perfectly--tender,…read moreflavorful, and exactly to temperature. You can really tell the kitchen takes pride in the quality of the ingredients and preparation. Huge kudos to Chef Frankie for delivering such a phenomenal meal. Everything from the steak to the sides was well executed and beautifully presented. Our server, Aubrey, was fantastic and truly elevated the experience. She was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu without ever making us feel rushed. Her service made the evening feel relaxed and enjoyable. We also have to mention the banana fosters cheesecake for dessert--it was absolutely amazing and the perfect way to end the meal. Rich, flavorful, and something we would come back for on its own. Great atmosphere, excellent food, and standout service. Between Chef Frankie's incredible cooking and Aubrey's attentive service, this steakhouse is definitely a place we will return to and highly recommend

    I was craving a good steak and came across this casual, laid back steakhouse. After reading several…read morereviews praising their beer cheese and pretzels, I knew I had to find out for myself. I made a reservation, but when I arrived, only a few people were sitting at the bar, so I practically had the entire dining room to myself. Phyre is located on a quiet street just steps away from St. Cloud City Hall. The décor features black velvet booths, black chairs, and marble tables. It isn't fancy, but it has a cool, modern vibe. They even had a huge Christmas tree still on display, decorated in preparation for the Fourth of July, which definitely caught my attention. Allie was my host and server, and she was friendly, attentive, and welcoming throughout my visit. Every restaurant needs a Allie. She was amazing! If Phyre management reads this, she needs a raise. I mean absolutely wonderful service! I started with what they call the "Our Fashion" cocktail and their famous pretzels served with beer cheese . The cocktail was enjoyable, and I can see why the pretzels get so much attention. They were soft, warm, and fresh. I would have preferred a little less salt, but then again, it wouldn't really be a pretzel. The cheese sauce could have been hotter, but it was flavorful and paired well with the pretzels. For my entrée, I ordered the surf and turf featuring filet medallions, three crab-stuffed shrimp, and a side of garlic mashed potatoes. The food arrived surprisingly quickly, which I appreciated. The filet medallions were cooked to a perfect medium and had a nice slight crisp on the outside, although they weren't quite as hot as I would have liked. It was served towith a delicious wine sauce that really elevated the dish. The crab stuffed shrimp were flavorful, and the garlic mashed potatoes were a great complement to the meal. Overall, I enjoyed my Sunday dinner at Phyre. The service was excellent, the atmosphere was relaxed, and the food delivered a satisfying steakhouse experience. I'd definitely return to try more of the menu.

    Photos
    Phyre Brewery & Tavern - Outside

    Outside

    Phyre Brewery & Tavern - Decor

    Decor

    Phyre Brewery & Tavern - Chandy

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    Chandy

    The Vintage Speakeasy - Wine Taste

    The Vintage Speakeasy

    4.0(56 reviews)
    12.1 mi
    $$$

    From the outside it does not give "speakeasy" vibes but once inside they did a good job with the…read moredecor and ambiance. Plus you need a password to go in. Looking at the menu I was bit surprised they did not have more signature drinks on the menu, mainly mojitos, but then realized this is a Latin speakeasy, with music playing to match. Once I had my coconut mojito I was very pleased. They really do know how to make them. They also have a full bar so anything you want they can make, The bartender and servers were super nice and friendly, and they worked quick to get all drinks out. They also had some food, that looked delicious, and hope I get the chance to come back to try some. After seating in the lounge/ speakeasy area for a while, we moved to the bar for a last drink. The bartender said Espresso Martinis were her specialty so we order those. She was not lying, one of the best we've had.

    A speakeasy in Kissimmee... I was surprised but I was excited to try it…read more. Definitely different from others I've been too, the entrance was cute & fun to discover our way inside... Interesting space... I see the vision but this is why space planning is so important. Or maybe it's the designer in me. I found the seating very uncomfortable and awkwardly positioned. The services was good and the empanadas were tasty (little greasy) Drinks were yummy... The old fashion was presented in a box while it was being smoked, very cool concept. Overall I dig the concept and I was glad to check it out since I was in the Kissimmee area.

    Photos
    The Vintage Speakeasy - Inside (one angle)

    Inside (one angle)

    The Vintage Speakeasy
    The Vintage Speakeasy

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    Zanzibar Blu Speakeasy - Peaking in...

    Zanzibar Blu Speakeasy

    5.0(22 reviews)
    68.3 mi

    Drop whatever you are doing and go!…read more Zanzibar is an intimate yet unique live jazz music experience literally in the basement of a historical house. Beer and wine is served in a highly welcoming setting. Tonight, it was someone's birthday and they were handing out slices of cake to everyone there. The live performance was PHENOMENAL. Amy A. Hall, a vocalist, was performing with a back up band, which included covers of mainstream R&B songs. People were dancing and moving on the floor and in their seats. Cannot say enough good things. There is also an outdoor sports bar in the garage as well as a barber shop area and an AirBNB upstairs. Whatever you are doing... go!

    If you're looking for a genuinely unique night out in Daytona Beach, Zanzibar Blu is the hidden gem…read moreyou have to experience!! Nestled in the basement below what looks like a vintage barbershop, this classy speakeasy transports you straight into an intimate live music lounge -- dim lighting, cozy seating, soulful music, and an atmosphere that feels like you've stepped back in time. What truly sets Zanzibar Blu apart is the personal touch from owner Kenneth Hunt who welcomes every guest as if you're stepping into his home. He's often there to help seat people, chat with patrons, and make you feel instantly comfortable. His vision for the space shines in every corner of the décor -- he handpicked authentic, fully functioning antiques and memorabilia (many of which he's said to have brought over from his childhood home in Philadelphia) that give the place a real story and personality. Live music is the heart of the experience here. There's always a mix of blues, talented local jazz musicians, and smooth sounds that keep the vibe lively yet relaxed. Whether you're celebrating a special night out or just craving something off the usual bar circuit of Daytona biker bars, Zanzibar Blu delivers. And if you're in town long enough, check out the Hunt House vacation rental upstairs -- Kenneth's other passion project that perfectly complements the speakeasy below. Highly recommend!!!

    Photos
    Zanzibar Blu Speakeasy
    Zanzibar Blu Speakeasy - Jazz night: Adam Kornecki (p), Dan Walters (b)

    Jazz night: Adam Kornecki (p), Dan Walters (b)

    Zanzibar Blu Speakeasy - Jazz evening: Adam Kornecki (keys), David Weatherspoon (drums), Jerobe Watts (bass)

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    Jazz evening: Adam Kornecki (keys), David Weatherspoon (drums), Jerobe Watts (bass)

    Voodoo Bayou - BBQ Shrimp

    Voodoo Bayou

    4.2(419 reviews)
    18.6 miDr. Phillips, Horizons West / West Orlando
    $$$

    Been to VooDoo Bayou a few times now and it never disappoints. The atmosphere absolutely nails the…read moreNew Orleans vibes -- lively, fun, and full of character. It's also a great spot for large parties without ever feeling chaotic. Service is always 10/10, always attentive, friendly and prompt, they are so on top of it you never have to ask for a refill. The food is consistently amazing. Highly recommend the BBQ shrimp, the wood fired oysters (the chili butter is seriously addicting), and the Gumbo Ya-Ya. Every dish is packed with flavor and feels authentic. Easily one of my favorite spots whenever I'm craving Creole food.

    The food was good (we had the chicken & waffles, cornbread, wedge salad and cocktails), but the…read moreservice was even better...referring to our server (she was attentive and always present). We were a little disappointed in the kitchen. Our first order of chicken and waffles took a longtime, only to arrive lukewarm. When I mentioned it to our server, she took it away immediately "no questions asked." The only problem was the new order took a longtime, but it did arrive piping hot. I love the fact that their fried chicken comes with bone-in and not chicken tenders that are often served with chicken & waffles served in other restaurants. For us, the cornbread was one of the stars of the evening and made for the perfect compliment to our main course. Our only regret was we didn't know about the Speakeasy skillfully camouflaged near the entrance. The next time we go there, we're definitely going to make that one of our stops.

    Photos
    Voodoo Bayou - Cool wall in back of dining room

    Cool wall in back of dining room

    Voodoo Bayou - Chicken and Waffle (DD)

    Chicken and Waffle (DD)

    Voodoo Bayou - Speak Easy Entrance - Adorable!

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    Speak Easy Entrance - Adorable!

    Lourde's Library - Smoked old fashion and the menu

    Lourde's Library

    4.3(35 reviews)
    40.8 mi

    The introduction vibe on your first time is amazing. They always do a nice show for people that…read moreI've never been before, and even if you have been many times, you still get to participate, which is fun. Every day of the week they have a different separate drink menu for the specialties of that day. I love the Wednesday bourbon. The vibe inside is so amazing and Homie and it is pretty intimate though. So keep in mind if you have large parties like I went once with around six people it is hard for everyone to sit together. So I would definitely recommend coming on more weekday evenings when it's not as busy otherwise you will be having to wait in a line outside unfortunately. The capacity seems to be roughly around 30 people after talking with the bartenders. The bartenders are extremely knowledgeable. The off menu drinks that they could come up with ended up being some of my absolute favorites. I had the bartender at one point make me three surprise me drinks for whatever they felt like they could make. And every single one was so amazing I ended up passing it around to the rest of the group for everyone to try. Keep in mind, the drinks are probably a little bit more on the expensive side, but you are paying for more of the experience. It is also important to note that there is a five dollar cover fee that will last for a full week to enter the place, or you can buy an annual membership for $40. If you buy the annual membership, they do type out a membership library card for you and laminate so it feels very official and it's very cool to be able to have in your wallet. In the true vibe of speakeasy, this is a hidden gem.

    You find the secret book, pay the $5 membership fee listen to the slightly too long intro pitch and…read morethe book shelf opens, admitting you to the speakeasy. It was crowded. It was elegant. The cocktails were exceptional. I asked for classic cocktails that weren't in the menu. They delivered. Love the place. Why Four stars? Service was three bears. The waiter with the blonde mop of hair is very nice but inexperienced. Too on top of customers when they arrive. He needs to give a menu and give a few minutes for guests to peruse it. The head bartender is brilliant. Talent without hospitality, though, is a craft cocktail fail. Kindness counts. The vibe was colder than the cocktails. I hope it improves on future visits. The blonde bartender in the grey dress was just right. Professional, attentive, and kind. This is easily a six star speak. When you are serving? You are "on." Be as excellent and calm of a person as you are outstanding at your craft.

    Photos
    Lourde's Library - Seating area near bar

    Seating area near bar

    Lourde's Library - The Moby Duck

    The Moby Duck

    Lourde's Library - Menu

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    Menu

    Hanson's Shoe Repair - Waiting area for the speakeasy

    Hanson's Shoe Repair

    4.2(376 reviews)
    21.1 miDowntown / Central Business District / CBD
    $$

    What a great spot located in one of the oldest buildings in Downtown Orlando. They've done a great…read morejob with the classic speakeasy atmosphere...make sure you call to get the password if you don't have instachat. The drinks are all fantastic, probably the best in Florida! You can't go wrong with any of them. The patio just reopened, but the bar is where it's at!

    My girlfriend recommended we check this spot out for some fun late-night drinks. She told me it was…read morea speakeasy that used to look like a shoe repair shop from the outside. Apparently, they decided to remove that concept and replace it with a more standard bar front -- which is kind of boring. I feel like they could have kept both for the full effect. We headed upstairs where the real bar is, and it was definitely busy. It's a tighter space, especially since the outdoor area is currently under construction. We waited about 15-20 minutes before being let in. Once inside, it's very close quarters. We managed to grab a two-top and ordered cocktails from the bartender. The drinks were pretty good. If you're unsure what to get or want something experimental, the bartender will ask plenty of questions to tailor a drink to your taste. If that's not your thing, there's a standard menu to choose from. Or, when in Rome -- let them surprise you with something unique. The drink prices definitely reflect the atmosphere. Overall, it was a fun stop -- but for us, it was a one-and-done before heading to the next bar.

    Photos
    Hanson's Shoe Repair - "Semi-Charmed" Light and refreshing.

    "Semi-Charmed" Light and refreshing.

    Hanson's Shoe Repair - Entrance

    Entrance

    Hanson's Shoe Repair - Hard to find

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    Hard to find

    Vault 5421 - Great drinks

    Vault 5421

    4.6(90 reviews)
    18.1 miInternational Drive / I-Drive
    $$

    Vault 5421 is a speakeasy in the back of a novelty store, God's & Monsters. Came on a Sunday and…read morejust lucked out on getting a seat because the place was packed. Love the horror theme and they play horror movies on the TVs. Definitely a touristy kind of place. They have video games and specialty drinks. There are mocktales and shots, but really they taste about the same, super sweet. I loved there selection of craft beer in the cans and bottles. Definitely worth a visit if you are looking for a cool way to spend a few hours.

    This bar is inside "Gods and Monsters" comic book shop and what a fun concept it is! First of all,…read morethe store itself is really big and has A LOT to look at. They have a ton of great items and would have loved to spend more time in the shop but it was getting close to last call at their bar and wanted to make sure I tried a drink. The bar itself is quite small, but it packs a bunch with décor. There is so much to see and every time you look a different way, there's something else you didn't see before. When I came, it was really not crowded which is good because like I said, it is small so it was nice to be able to walk around. My friends and I all tried different drinks and they were all really good. The service was fast and efficient. I would definitely check this place out again and recommend. According to other comments, they do change up the drinks so I would love to try something else.

    Photos
    Vault 5421 - Decoration and video game

    Decoration and video game

    Vault 5421 - Fave drink was the Dole Whip Me Daddy!

    Fave drink was the Dole Whip Me Daddy!

    Vault 5421 - Really cool place

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    Really cool place

    The Black Squirrel Bookstore - speakeasies - Updated June 2026

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