Hanson's Shoe Repair
Cocktail bar · Downtown Orlando ·
Password-entry speakeasy serving craft cocktails in intimate surrounds
Password-entry speakeasy serving craft cocktails in intimate surrounds
"Hanson’s Shoe Repair was Orlando’s first speakeasy in recent years, opening in 2013. It was creatively and aptly named after the space’s original function, circa 1883 — a shoe repair shop. Hanson’s is located on the third floor, accessible only by a code word, and houses a large bar inside and a 35-person seating area outside, nestled among some of The City Beautiful’s taller buildings. Home to craft cocktails and classic cocktails alike, Hanson’s is no doubt helping to put Orlando on the map in the cocktail world." - Colleen Hamilton
"The speakeasy thing has become a somewhat tired novelty, so once entry to Hanson’s Shoe Repair has been secured by procuring the password from X, head to the Hanson Building (generally considered to be the oldest building in Orlando) and give the person minding the door on the third-floor the “secret” code. Once seated inside the tight, dimly lit space, relax and savor the stiff potions designed by Orlando’s finest cocktail creators. There’s even a small outdoor area for those feeling a bit claustrophobic. Oh, and don’t be overly nonplussed by couples making out — it’s a thing here." - Faiyaz Kara
"The speakeasy thing has become a somewhat tired novelty, so once entry to Hanson’s Shoe Repair has been secured by procuring the password from the Twitters (@HansonsShoeShop), head to the Hanson Building (generally considered to be the oldest building in Orlando) and give the person minding the door on the third-floor the “secret” code. Once seated inside the tight, dimly lit space, relax and savor the stiff potions designed by Rene Nguyen, one of Orlando’s finest cocktail creators. There’s even a small outdoor area for those feeling a bit claustrophobic. Oh, and don’t be overly nonplussed by couples making out — it’s a thing here." - Faiyaz Kara
"Housed in one of Orlando's oldest buildings, Hanson's Shoe Repair is a classic, password-protected speakeasy. The narrow space features low beamed ceilings, brick walls, and bartenders clad in period-appropriate attire. The bartenders are perfectionists and dedicated to their craft; in fact, the menu even warns you that this is not a vodka–soda gun-type bar. The curated menu features 10 cocktails at any given time. Most are variations on classics; all use premium spirits and liqueurs." - Laura Ratliff
Orlando’s classic password-only speakeasy in an 1880s building with a tiny rooftop. Featured by Condé Nast Traveler and Eater, it enforces old-school etiquette and meticulous cocktails—call for the nightly code and settle in for jazz and conversation.