A new speakeasy has opened in Old Sacramento, capturing the essence of the Prohibition era with its unique concept. Dubbed The 1920s Bookstore, the establishment cleverly masquerades as a bookstore while serving classic cocktails inspired by the 1920s. The menu is designed like a book, where each drink is paired with an origin story, enhancing the charm of the concept.

Owner San Bao expresses his fascination with the Prohibition period, mentioning how it transformed drinking into an act of rebellion. "Prohibition turned drinking into rebellion and bartenders into alchemists," he notes, highlighting the creativity of bartenders at the time who masked inferior spirits with various ingredients.

The bar features a variety of classic cocktails, from the French 75 to the El Diablo, with prices ranging from $16 to $20. The location in Pioneer Square adds to the allure, as Bao aimed for a hidden sanctuary amidst a fast-paced world, creating an atmosphere where time feels different.

Reservations are required due to limited space, and the speakeasy operates from 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM on Sundays to Wednesdays, and 4:30 PM to 10 PM on Thursdays and Fridays. The address is listed as 900 2nd St., Old Sacramento, but true to speakeasy tradition, guests are encouraged to look for a clock in Pioneer Square to find their way inside.