Bar Vauté

Bar Vaute is speakeasy that nails both atmosphere and execution. The cocktails are nothing short of exceptional, with a menu that balances classic elegance and inventive flair. The bartenders are a standout, especially Lara, who’s not only skilled but brings a warm, welcoming energy. Even when it’s packed (which it often is), service remains impressively quick and attentive. Seating is limited, and the space can get loud due to the close quarters—but that’s part of the charm. If you’re looking for a unique, intimate spot with top-tier drinks and a speakeasy ambiance, Bar Vaute delivers. If you happen upon the French quarter while you’re in Charleston give this place a shot. 🍷

We had an absolute amazing experience! I think his name was Avery, he was our bartender at the bar. He greeted us with a smile and made us feel so special from the moment we sat down. Our drinks were delicious! He was so friendly, so kind and made our night memorable. You can tell he loves crafting cocktails! We will definitely be back because of the excellent service! Thank you!

Our service was excellent by Lara! Food was also spectacular: oysters, Brussel sprouts, steak, crab stuffed flounder, and Carmel dessert!

Speakeasy kind of vibes, located downstairs, intimate quaint little place. Must try the Fleur De Lis cocktail tastes like a refreshing botanical lemonade! Candle lit dark atmosphere, perfect for date night or girls night.

We had an absolutely amazing experience here for dinner a few weeks back. If you’re looking for an intimate speakeasy experience, head downstairs below Brassiere La Banque where you’re able to order the full menu in a cozy environment. The Good: obviously the ambience as I mentioned above. The service was fantastic! Cokie (sp?) worked the room like an absolute pro greeting each person in a friendly manner, remembering every food/drink order, and offering helpful suggestions. She also came up with delicious, inventive cocktails based off personal preferences that weren’t on the menu. Such a talented mixologist! We loved every drink she came up with. I know that’s kind of Gin Joint’s thing - but go here for the same experience! Also, the food was delicious. The menu is smaller but we enjoyed everything. We got the duck meatballs, crab cake, and steak frites and weren’t disappointed in anything. I don’t like duck and never order it but Cokie convinced us to try it and I’m so glad because it’s out of my norm! The Meh: nothing The Bad: definitely nothing Restaurants like this are part of what make Charleston a foodie city! While many visitors frequent the seafood places, I encourage you to try this French-inspired cuisine below street level and thank me later :)

We found this spot by accident walking across the street from the tavern store. Looked down through the grates on the sidewalk and there it was. Didn't have time for a drink but it was a cool, dimly lit bar in the basement. Great vibe from the bartenders laughing with the patrons. We hope to return some day for a drink.

We stopped here to try a couple of signature cocktails and we were not disappointed. It's downstairs below a restaurant and has a speak easy feel to it. Cool decor and an intimate setting. The food looked good but we had already ate, would definitely visit here again

This is our second visit to the Bar Vauté and we aren’t jaded at all. We figured we couldn’t get a table at La Banque without a reservation so we arrived at the blue-hair hour(5:20!) and asked if we could order from the menu downstairs in the wonderful bar. We started with a superior cocktail each- a Boulevardier and a Vieux Carré. We each ordered a NY Strips a la carte with plates of haricots verts and fries to share. The steaks were succulent, well seasoned and perfectly grilled to temp. The sides were delicious and just enough. A glass of Cremant de Bourgogne each and a to-die-for chocolate crème brûlée to top it all off. The service in the bar is great-not stiff or formal, but still attentive. The atmosphere is lively, lots of happy conversations overlapping from the bar and other small tables. The small round tables are first come first serve, set at the base of the stone wall with seating on surprisingly comfy upholstery cubes. It’s dimly lit, cool, and fun. Don’t miss this spot in Charleston.

This place is so fun and unique. A unexpected surprise even! It's literally a speakeasy downtown Charleston with all the Charleston charm. Upon arrival we were able to find seats very quickly and our server was a dream! She took such good care of us and even acknowledged our anniversary with some champagne. She went above and beyond to ensure we had the most amazing experience. We loved her and her hospitality and kindness! This is a stop that is now on my go to list and can't wait to visit again!

Cool little bar underneath Brasserie La Banque. Has that speakeasy feel. Dark, cozy, kind of hidden. Cocktail list is solid and there is a good variety. Probably would not come here on a nice sunny day, but if it is cold or raining out, it is a great spot to post up for a drink. Real comfy vibe.

Great Happy Hour with friends!! Enjoyed the drinks, apps and the French Happy Meal -- a juicy burger and fries! Great service too!!!

Easy to find little speakeasy down the stairs inside La Banque. It's intimate and spooky feeling down there but the drinks were good.

Speak easy in Brasserie de Banque was pretty cool. Small and intimate, we were there around 5pm and had great conversations with the bar tender. My wife had the espresso martini which she loved and I had the chefs kiss which was great, I had 2 of them. We also ordered the fries which were amazing, perfectly fried and great little crunch, definitely recommend. The bar tender was always asking if we needed something while there and service was truly amazing. We're coming back next time.

Another fabulous experience here last weekend. My mom and I were in town for her birthday and grabbed cocktails after dinner.

A hidden gem in one of the oldest buildings in the USA. A trip from the Pineapple Fountain to the closed Tavern Liquor led us to the Beer and Wine shop, where we met Coby and spent time with him. He asked us if we wanted to know of a secret speakeasy, then took me aside and whispered these instructions: *************************. ****** ***** With these instructions, we were led to the bar where we had some of the tastiest cocktails. Our server, Lara, was attentive and a great conversationalist. Her drinks were AMAZING, and we learned so much about the great state of South Carolina. Dinner was off the charts! Three Steak Frites, One amazing truffle burger (Double Smash!!! ), and then a pistachio strawberry ganache desert! My better half still talks about her Flour De Lis. One of our favorite experiences in the London of the South!

Bar Vauté is an intimate underground. speakeasy with a vibe. Our bartender Sunny was friendly and accommodating. She makes a delicious Bees Knees and a refreshing Hugo Spritz.

It's a bar hidden in plain site located beneath the French restaurant Brasserie la Banque. One of the only below-street-level bars in the city, it's a very cool bar with a bit of a romantic atmosphere. It's a perfect place for pre dinner cocktails or to end the evening. My favorite cocktail on the menu is the French 75 : gin, champagne and house citrus . It's a very smooth and balanced cocktail . While I have never dined here , it is on my radar to check out for a full dining experience . For parking : metered street parking .

First, the bar itself looks cool and the music is great. That's basically where the good ends. The service is slow or non-existent - even when the bar is empty. There was one bartender and one server. Eventually, we made up 1/3 of the total people in the bar. It took 15 minutes just to get the first drinks. They managed to mix even that up. Three times I tried to ask for a food menu and our server just walked away like no words were even coming out of my mouth. We were ignored for another 30 minutes while the server took more interest in chatting with the bartender and learning to make drinks. When they weren't making drinks, they were distracted by the baby in the bar other reviews have mentioned. After 30 minutes, I thought we might get service! Nope! The bartender asked if we were ready (to order), and when we said "yes," he just turned and walked back behind the bar. The server NEVER returned to take our order. After an hour, one drink, and no food, and my family left, the server finally came by. While we were waiting, we actually had time to make a reservation in the restaurant up stairs. Just avoid. There are so many better, less pricey dining options to choose from in CHS. If you really want to dine here, stick with the restaurant upstairs. It's much better. Maybe walk downstairs and look around while you're waiting for your food, but no need to stick around... unless you're not hungry or thirsty and have ample time to sit around and do nothing in CHS. Then this place is perfect for you.

Awful service and terrible staff - no one served us for 1+ hours .... Even after asking the bar for help

If you're looking to impress your date (or friends) with an enchanting ambiance and impeccable cocktails, Bar Vaute is the undisputed choice. Unlike anything else I have been to in Charleston, tucked below the street, Bar Vaute sits as the perfect intimate candle-lit date spot. The moment you step inside, you're transported to a bygone era, where the soft glow of dim lights set the stage for a romantic evening. The décor exudes vintage charm, with worn brick walls, and a sense of mystery that permeates the air. We did not have a chance to try the menu but all of our cocktails were well crafted, and delicious. The seating arrangements, with cozy nooks and intimate corners, create an atmosphere that is conducive to meaningful conversation and connection. The low background hum allows for privacy without sacrificing the lively energy that permeates the space. In conclusion, Bar Vaute is more than a bar; it's an enchanting escape for those seeking a romantic and intimate date night. The combination of impeccable cocktails, a captivating atmosphere, and attentive service makes it a standout destination. I look forward to returning again soon.

old-fashioned speakeasy bar located downtown Charleston great menu and the food was perfect. Wonderful selection of drinks and and there is not much space in the joint put it on your bucket list.

I've heard about this bar for months but hadn't had a chance to stop by. I saw the candle lights burning while looking down at the side walk while walking down broad street one evening and had to stop in. The bar was small but cozy. Lots of candle light. The bartender made a good drink. Honestly, I liked walking into a side door and the feel of a speak easy. Will definitely bring my tourist friends.

What a great place to stop and have a drink. We had dinner near by and decided to come in for an after dinner drink. First off, you have to know this is the entrance, because there is no signage or markings. It's located directly under Brasserie La Banquet, so the door after and then you go downstairs. Then, it is still behind a curtain. It's so small, maybe seats 25 people at the most with a few tables and seats at the bar. I think they serve shall bites of food, but we just had a drink. They have a specialty cocktail list (as do most places now), not the liquor and wine selection is plenty, you'll be able to get whatever you really want here. Definitely a great place to start or end the night!

Bar Vauté is a hidden little gem in the basement of Brassiere La Banque (opening soon) located in the French Quarter. It is what I think of when you hear of speakeasy's from the prohibition days. We started the night off with cocktails. I ordered the Français Martini which is probably one of the best martinis I have ever had. Not sickening sweet but the perfect balance of sweet and dry. Highly recommend it. The hubs ordered an Amaretto sour and he also felt it was one of the best he had ever had. We were surprised with glasses of champagne (compliments of the house) to celebrate our anniversary. This was a very unexpected surprise and one that was truly appreciated. We kicked our dining experience off with the foie gras dumplings with chicken consommé and oh my. The dumplings just melted in our mouths like butter and the chicken consummate was rich but not overpowering. I wanted to ask for a mug of it to drink like coffee it was that good. We then shared the French Onion Grilled Cheese which reminded us of a deconstructed French Onion soup. The only thing I would change about it is to have more cheese because you can never have too much cheese. lol The bread had a nice buttery flavor to it and the caramelized onions on top had the right amount of richness to them to not overpower the grilled cheese portion of the dish. The dark chicken jus was rich and salty but not overly salty making it the perfect accompaniment to the dish. The hubs got the vault burger and said it was seasoned well, juicy and in the top 10 burgers he has had in his life. Probably the top 5. The bacon jam was both sweet and salty and in his words "so freaking good". The charred balsamic onions were okay and he wouldn't have noticed if they were left off. lol I got the vault frites. The steak was cooked sous vide to a medium rare and it was so tender and yes...I'm going to say it again, it melts like butter on your tongue. The frites were a little on the salty side but the sauce du banque helped offset the saltiness and brought the dish together. I will be thinking of this dish for the rest of my life. It was that good. We finished the night off with the crepe cake (to go) as there was no more room at the inn. lol but from what I have heard, it is incredible. This was not a dining experience to us but a culinary one and a party for our taste buds...in a bar nonetheless. There were so many kind gestures throughout the evening that meant more to us than we could possibly put into words to thank the staff. Our server Ashley was amazing. So knowledgeable of the menu and very helpful when faced with the dilemma of "give me one of everything". lol Thank you to the manager, Cullen, for helping us with our last minute reservation and for making our 21st anniversary one to remember.

Like finding a dark speakeasy and falling back in time. Perfect date night atmosphere. Exceptional bartender with hand crafted ingredients and unique garnishes. Talk to them to get a drink that suits you. Their house made gin is delicious and lightly colored. Just go!

Mediocre drinks. Aloof bartender. Overpriced. Much better places to go for a drink in Charleston.

We had an absolutely amazing experience here for dinner a few weeks back. If you're looking for an intimate speakeasy experience, head downstairs below Brassiere La Banque where you're able to order the full menu in a cozy environment. The Good: obviously the ambience as I mentioned above. The service was fantastic! Cokie (sp?) worked the room like an absolute pro greeting each person in a friendly manner, remembering every food/drink order, and offering helpful suggestions. She also came up with delicious, inventive cocktails based off personal preferences that weren't on the menu. Such a talented mixologist! We loved every drink she came up with. I know that's kind of Gin Joint's thing - but go here for the same experience! Also, the food was delicious. The menu is smaller but we enjoyed everything. We got the duck meatballs, crab cake, and steak frites and weren't disappointed in anything. I don't like duck and never order it but Cokie convinced us to try it and I'm so glad because it's out of my norm! The Meh: nothing The Bad: definitely nothing Restaurants like this are part of what make Charleston a foodie city! While many visitors frequent the seafood places, I encourage you to try this French-inspired cuisine below street level and thank me later :)

Let me preface this review by saying I rarely throw out 1-star reviews. I don't like bashing local bars because I'm all about supporting local businesses. I felt it necessary this time because of the experience I had last night. My wife and I decided to check out Bar Vaute after an amazing dinner at Sorelle last night. We had never been before but it was on our radar and an easy stroll from dinner. We walked into the inconspicuous entryway to the left of 1 Broad St entrance and walked downstairs. First impression was that this could be a very cool and unique experience! Welp, that quickly changed. We walked in and took at seat at a small two top in the corner. There were a lot of people and we were happy to grab a seat right away. We sat for about 10 minutes talking and checking out the menu. Multiple staff walked by and never acknowledged us or said hello. Probably walked by at least seven times. I decided to walk up to the bar and order our drinks. The bartender with his hooklike mustache and greasy slicked back hair looked like he could care less about making drinks and taking orders for anyone. He finally acknowledged me and said he could take my order and bring the drinks over to our table. Fine, I gave him the order and went back to the table. About 10-15 minutes go by. At this point my wife and I are getting annoyed. The staff walked by multiple times again with no acknowledgement. Here's the best part, the bartender who took my drink order disappeared the entire time after I ordered comes out to greet a friend holding a BABY walking around the f'ing bar and starts joking around and playing with the baby. Haha WTF. He was literally standing right next to us like a big "F U I'm playing with a baby right now!" Horrible service. Won't be back. You get ONE chance in CHS to make a good impression and if you blow it you're done.

We visited here thanks to a recommendation by our Ghost Tour guide on a recent trip to Charleston. This place has a great speakeasy vibe. Cocktails were delicious. You can order food from the affiliated restaurant upstairs which was great. We shared escargot, salad and Paris brest dessert. The dessert was a standout and incredible. Wish we had to time to visit the restaurant upstairs before we left!

After dinner at Brasserie La Banque we headed downstairs for an after dinner drink. The place was packed, with a cross section of people eating, waiting for dinner upstairs or just having cocktails. It's a basement bar with a great vibe. No reservations needed here and you can have the exact same menu as La Banque. Same prices also. I can see this bar doing very well. It's cozy. Great for a date night or a girls night. The bar tenders were friendly efficient and knowledgeable. They also have an extensive wine list. Overall a great experience and a fun couple of hours. Check it out.

We headed down to Bar Vaute after dinner at Brasserie la Banque. This used to be Bakers Bar a few years ago (uncertain of the timeline). The inside is dimly lit with candles with most of the light coming from the bar itself. Their cocktails are quite good with a good amount of strength. I had both the Broad Street and the Old Fashioned (with Elijah Craig bourbon). No complaints whatsoever and the service was quick and nice. We were full so we didn't ask, but it seems like you may be able to get food down here as well. Definitely recommend especially for a cute date night or to impress a few friends. I will say it was a Wednesday when we visited so it could be a lot more packed on a different night. I recommend parking at the garage right across the street near N. Atlantic Wharf. It's a 2 minute walk or less to the restaurant and bar.

Fantastic cocktails in a secretive bar in the basement of Brassiere la Banque, a former bank turned restaurant. Bar is near the old vault. Cool place!.

Disappointing experience. Have been here previously, but service is now slow or nonexistent even when it's empty. We went there an hour after it opened, and we did not receive our drinks until about 25 minutes later. Yes, I timed it. The menu was same as the menu from the upstairs restaurant which we frequent, and we receive better service. Server didn't stop by enough even though our drinks were empty. As for ambience they changed their sofas and it looks so generic and unflattering now. I would recommend just going to the bar upstairs. I do like the lounge idea, but when it gets crowded one can barely get by because the seating layout is poorly set up against the columns in the middle of the room.

Such a cool atmosphere! The bar was a little tricky to find but glad we found it! Not ideal for larger groups but 2-4 people was perfect. The Raspberry Beret was amazing and the bartender whipped up a special gin drink for my husband which was fantastic.

Cute and secret. Fun drinks, good service. Very unique and unusual place definitely worth trying

Amazing bar and service. Went here at 5:30 on a Friday and only 3 other people were there. The bartender duo is super friendly and attentive and even gave us a free sample of the foie Gras bourbon made in house which was interesting and amazing. Charleston gets super crowded on the weekends so this was a nice low key find and should definitely be one of the most popular cocktail bars. Pictured is the storms brewing which has a coconut ice cube and the cocktail menu.

A quick Sambuca after Oak dinner. Loverly. Beautiful, dark bar, under the french restaurant that is upstairs. Just a nice experience where the 4 of us had good company including the great bartender we had at the time. We will be back!

Drinks good, cool place, just needs a tin ceiling. I know that's easy for me to say, I don't run a bar, but if the ceiling was cool it would feel more authentic. The staff was nice. Would go back. Thanks.

This is a beautiful speakeasy located in the basement. It's small quaint and nicely done. It has a very DC vibe and has a great selection of libations. As well, they do have a smaller menu and the food is very good. As well, I did meet a great bartender and host that did an outstanding job! They made my fast visit to the French Quarter very nice. I'd highly recommend giving the upstairs restaurant or the speakeasy a try as I did two evenings in a row.

We are so happy we found this place for a late night drink and bite. The drinks were delicious and beautiful! The bartender was engaging as well. The house blue crab with vichyssoise was my husband's favorite dish he had in Charleston. We highly recommend!

We loved this place! Come here for craft cocktails and delicious appetizers. It's a little pricey (~$15 for a cocktail, $22 for crab croquettes) but the drinks are well made and the food is so tasty. I had the Bande l'orange which is mezcal based. Fancied something different after and the bartender made me a fabulous ginger/mezcal cocktail! Highly recommend this place for fun libations and great atmosphere. Will definately be back when we come to Charleston again.

Great cocktails, makes a solid old fashion. The paper plane was also an excellent drink. Dark, speakeasy vibe.

They switched staff and now this place feels stale and unfinished. Another place in Charleston to lose its luster and just cater to tourists.

Probably a top 5 bar I've ever been to. Quiet and cool vibe! Very romantic. The drinks are amazing and we LOVE the bartender named Koki, she is the best,

This bar was a great stop on a work trip! Intimate setting, great ambience and I was really excited to see mocktails on their menu!! Sometimes when you're the DD for a night out you feel like you miss out on all the fun, not here!!! The bartender wasn't super attentive, but we were in about an hour and a half before closing so maybe that had something to do with it. We had a blast and will certainly visit again!!

Best new place in town! Reasonably priced with a wonderful selection of wines and drinks. The food for a little vault is great. I ordered the Steak Frites and my friend had the small burger. Both were fabulous! Steak was cooked to perfection and the small slider type burger was bigger than a slider and delicious. Just a few blocks down from my office on Broad, this may be my new favorite place!!

Came across this diamond in the rough buried in the French Quarter. A cocktail oasis right off Broad, this gem creates a welcoming speakeasy atmosphere that welcomes you in. The Manhattan was spectacular and the atmosphere is the cowbell you didn't know you needed in your life. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a solid Charleston recommendation, will be back again.

Head downstairs, one of the coolest after-dark bars in Charleston. You can also order food from upstairs, oysters were good and fresh.