The Volstead

Amazing place! Such a unique place and the drink selection is out of this world! I loved the Dealers's Choice. Cody, the bartender, is one of the best! His Dealer Choices were spot on!

Checked out Volstead on a Sunday night and was not disappointed. They were having swing Sunday and there was an instructor teaching swing dancing which was super cute there were quite a few couples participating to my surprise. The bar tenders were so friendly and had great suggestions. The swing night only lasted until 9 I believe then they play their regular music. Very fun night.

I've been coming to The Volstead for years. It's always been one of my favorite bars in the city and definitely tje most unique. Last visit was yesterday 8/17/24 and even though it felt really cool inside still, the service isn't what it used to be. We went "early" before the night crowd came in, around 9:45pm. It wasn't busy at all but several of the bartenders seemed annoyed to be there. They have almost always been super personable and friendly but last night I felt like I was inconveniencing them. Hopefully it was just an off night, but I'll be back to try again as I used to be a regular there. Still has the same vintage vibes as always, everything was still very clean. Weren't crazy about the current menu, but that's just personal preference.

If you’re in Jacksonville and looking for a speakeasy that truly delivers on atmosphere, cocktails, and friendly hospitality, The Volstead is your spot. From the moment you step inside, the dark, prohibition-era décor and laid-back vibe hit just right. It feels cozy, refined, and intentionally curated—a perfect place to relax and unwind. But what really elevates this place are the people behind the bar. First off, Cody makes one hell of a spicy margarita—a bold, balanced masterpiece that consistently hits the sweet spot. There’s also James, who’s always fun and a total blast to chat with at the bar; every visit is energized by his great sense of humor. And then there’s Ms. Sunny, who lives up to her name: always radiant, welcoming, and bringing a warm beam of light to every guest’s experience. Not to mention all the other amazing bartenders who whip up handcrafted cocktails with curiosity and flair—you can tell this team cares deeply about their craft. The cocktail menu ranges from modernized classics to adventurous originals crafted on the fly with fresh ingredients in house. Prices lean upscale, but that’s standard fare for a venue so conscious of quality—think refined mixology, not cheap booze. Don’t sleep on their weekly events either—swing-dancing, jazz nights, DJs, you name it. The vibe is always just right. All in all: The Volstead nails the speakeasy formula—mystique meets masterful cocktails and top-notch service. Whether you’re popping in before dinner or staying until close, Cody’s spicy margarita, James’s banter, and Sunny’s sunshine alone are worth it. Highly recommended!

A great venue and I appreciate that they host events in their space! I took a swing dance lesson there recently and it was a lot of fun!!

What a fun and historic speakeasy. My wife and I go here from time to time and we really enjoy the place. It has the right right atmosphere. The drinks are on point and taste very well. Bartenders are always very friendly and knowledgeable. I would recommend this place to anyone who has never been and also those that have been. Very, very cool place.

James was our bartender and was absolutely amazing. I’m not a big rum drinker but they made the best daiquiri I’ve ever had. Also, James gave me my first taste of Malört. Excellent service, drinks, and conversation. Will definitely come back next time I’m in town!

Okay... this was a fun spot. Most drinks were good, some of the eclectic ones were too much of a stretch. Right size for a speakeasy. Extra points for showing The Last Dragon on repeat on New Years!

One of my favorite downtown bars. The bartenders are talented mixologist. The interior is dark and sultry just like a speakeasy. Live the vibe! They offer Happy Hour 7 days a week!

So it seems that every time I end up in Jacksonville for work, I also end up at The Volstead... which in turn makes it my favorite bar in Jacksonville!. I love the dark speakeasy vibe, the bartenders are great for making a reccomendation, and the drinks are top notch. Last time I was in I had a few rye old fashioneds from two different bartenders with the shift change and they were all excellent. Next time I'm in town, I'll be back for sure.

Loved James and our drinks. The communication between bartenders was great watching them talk about who was doing what was impressive. Cocktails were great. I like the flexibility of cocktails. Would go back and recommend!

Love every time. The ambiance is nice and intimate. The lighting is moody and wraps you up to make you cozy. The drinks are phenomenally crafted by the mixologist. I have even been there for a special events. The service can feel slow if it gets crowded but that's only because each drink is crafted.

No food, amazing ambience, hidden gem. Drinks under 10 and hardy. No food, but saw a couple bring in find from a restaurant nearby .

Great atmosphere and fantastic drinks. Feels like a Speakeasy. It's easy to miss if you don't know to look for the barber shop.

Yum, service, excellent atmosphere..FUN ,SUN IS SWING NIGHT! Food is nearby not in house.

This speakeasy absolutely stole my heart. We decided to pop in here, but first we had to get past the working barbershop in the front! Once we got inside I fell in love. You have to visit this place just to experience the ambience. We were able to grab a bit of food to snack on while there which was homemade beef jerky that is made by the bar owner's grandfather. The bartenders are very attentive and the drinks were amazing. Definitely my new favorite bar in Jacksonville and I will be bringing all of my friends here!

Really cool experience. Had a hard time finding this but that contributes to the whole appeal. When we finally found it I was like are we sure? Lol. So it was daytime, well lit outside but coming inside you have no idea when and where you are. The decor, lighting, atmosphere, ambience, everything was so dark and mysterious. I really appreciate the enigmatic appeal. The old fashioned was too notch! All other drinks on the menu sounded wonderful and the other selection I chose was eccentric for sure. These aren't your typical drink choices but grateful to have a variety of choices.

Located behind the barbershop on Adams. I walked by thinking we past it.... But there it was... look for the door entryway with the letter "V" inlayed into the street tile. Beware - VERY strong drinks! The interior has the old timey vibe with a bar, some tables and chairs for seating. Any party size would be comfortable and welcomed. The bartenders were very friendly and helpful in taking our orders. Overall, 8/10. We will definitely be back.

Second time visiting and the winter menu was perfect. We love the atmosphere and the amazing bartenders. It's def a great place for a fun date

This was one of the first places I went in Jacksonville! It's SUCH a cool hang. Really cool atmosphere inside. The bartenders always look so cool prohibition era too. The drink menu is super fun and they have really cozy little chairs so you don't have to just be seated at the bar. Very nice place for a girls night or to meet up with a date!

Really neat speak easy. The front looks like a barbershop but the back is the bar! They play movies on the wall! I got the Golden Banana which was good!

Stopped by The Volstead today. I loved this little hidden speak-easy style bar.The eclectic atmosphere was amazing. Friend had the Caked Up Daiquiri while I had the Rum Dumpster. They were both wonderfully strong and tasty. Even the barber said hello from his shop and we walked through his shop toward the back, into the cocktail bar. No food but if you want an excellent crafted drink and enjoy some great music this place is amazing. Sad I'll miss the Burlesque bingo tonight. Definitely will be back. Love finding unique places around Jacksonville, especially Downtown.

We enjoyed this place. Atmosphere was nice. Only small complaint was the bar was full and there was no real place to go and place an order for a drink. You kinda had to hover behind people who were sitting at the bar. I would recommend a server who serves the tables/chairs or have a dedicated spot at the bar for people to walk up to so they can place an order.

Cool little bar. We came here for a show on a Saturday evening. Restrooms are awesome. The 30's type decoration is super cool. Service was the bar was terrible. I'm not sure if they did not staff enough people, or having patrons sit at the bar during the show was a bad idea. Either way having to flag down bartenders and waiting 10+ minutes for a drink was kind of a buzz kill.

Best classic whiskey sours in town. Pseudo speak easy. Dark but friendly service. Relax don't rush enjoy the atmosphere people and music.

A very nice and laid-back place with a very friendly bartender! My first time visiting and I plan on returning to a perfectly hidden gem located downtown.

Great service, great ambiance and delicious cocktails. Volstead is what you would expect from a speakeasy type of bar. It is a hole in the wall and easily missed but once you find it, the bar is pretty cool. My friends and I decided to check out this place right before a concert and it was the best decision we made that night! Our bartender was equally awesome, she made suggestions and actually informed us that it was happy hour. I ended ordering an old fashioned because it is my favourite drink while my friends ordered a double grand marnier near and my other got the prettiest sappling and talked about how yummy it was. The old fashioned was strong and tasty. We didn't have time to try other cocktails but we were already talking about coming back whenever we are in town. Honestly if you're ever in Jacksonville, do yourself a favor and check out this spot; you won't regret it.

We visited the volstead on a Friday night. The best way I can describe this place was all the vibes and fun of a speakeasy but without the annoying exclusivity. They had some comfy couches and bar seating and a movie projected on the wall. It was a great time. Their drink menu is small and very unique. I got a Jessica rabbit which can only be described as somewhere between a margarita and a V8. The carrot taste really came through, and so did the vinegar. It was refreshing and light and I finished it really fast, but I don't know if I'd order it again. It was such a unique drink. I've really never had anything like it. They also had a good beer selection that a few of my colleagues put to work. We enjoyed the atmosphere a lot and all of the bartenders were really friendly. I loved this place, and I'd definitely go back. I also love their name.

Nice Service and Ambiance. Drinks were great and we had a very good time, we will go again.

Surprisingly for how spacious the place was besides me and my boyfriend they were only two other people for about an hour before a couple more people came in. So it's a great place if you don't like being around a lot of people because they're plenty of places to sit or stand. It was also pretty dark lit so the ambience was very cozy. The only light that I noticed came from the bar, the movie and the baby little candles they had on each table. The drinks were all very delicious and unique! And the staff were all very sweet. I will say the only downside is that they are a bit on the pricier side so if you go ham, your wallet will definitely feel it. But it is a great place to hang out with your friends and have a fun drink.

An excellent little bar downtown. Love the speakeasy theme and the movies on the back wall. It's nice that they don't feel the need to drown out conversations with music so it's perfect for dates or to spend time with friends. The staff is always friendly and skilled at their craft. An extra win is that their Happy Hour is 4-7 everyday.

This place is everything it's cracked up to be. The best part to me was the ambiance. It's dark and romantic... not too dark but just perfect so you can enjoy your drink and your company. They don't have food but they do have great drinks. The only thing I'm not too fond of is the ordering process. Being that it's a smaller place, and everyone is sitting around the bar...you literally have to stand over someone and get in their personal space if you wanna be seen by a bartender. I don't think I took any photos, but if you can name it...they can make it. #Cheers.

Overall this hidden speakeasy is amazing! Its hidden store front with the "JAX POST" vibe is cool. I've been here a few times for the Bartenders Brawl but never on a regular night. Total for the 2 hours while I was here there was a max of 20 people in the establishment. Its cool it see this "speakeasy" bar not crowded with people and and be able to "observe" it in its "natural" environment. The bar design was an interesting, the concept it reminded me of a "Thrust" or "Runway" style stage. Im theater terms this allows the performers in this case the bartender with a greater interaction with the audience or customer in this case To my knowledge during the week they only have one Bartender on staff compared to the weekend aka Friday and Sat. This unique concept allows individual attention and space (during covid) but still flourishes on the weekends during the busiest time. I should have written a review in 2017 when I was introduced to this amazing establishment via a former F & B industry coworker.

Hubby and I swung into The Volstead for a nightcap on Friday night. We parked right down the street and walked over. I loved the speakeasy vibe as soon as we walked in. We went right over to the bar and ordered a couple of cocktails. I ordered a Chocolate Rain and he ordered an Old Fashioned. We found a couple chairs, sat down and enjoyed each others company. The cocktail I ordered wasn't something I would normally order and I didn't like it too much. Hubby went with his go-to and enjoyed his Old Fashioned. The ambiance is reason alone to come back and try a different cocktail.

If you are picky about your drinks you won't be let down here. I'm extremely particular about the simplest of drinks, an Old Fashioned. But the staff here ensures they have the proper ice blocks, and it's served stiff as it should be. Outside of that if there is a cocktail that I know is requiring more skill they are the first and only place I will go to for my special cocktails. The atmosphere here is dark but it gives speak easy vibes. Also, the entrance is fun the first few times.

Great drinks and atmosphere, eclectic drink menu that's always changing as well , definitely worth checking out

So I had the opportunity to do a bar crawl this last Saturday and we started at the Volstead honestly, it was very nice. The ambience was great. The service was great. Everybody was very accommodating because this bar crawl that we were attending nobody at these participating bars had any idea that it was happening some found out the day of the bar crawl. Most of all the bars that were involved either didn't do it at all or they accommodated and I can say about one or two of the bars on the list actually accommodated to the people that pay for the bar crawl, and the other ones just completely wouldn't even barge which had nothing to do with them, but it was very disappointing, but still had a fun time and really glad we started off here because they set the mood for the rest of the night

I was in Jacksonville for business and decided to check this place out after a crazy workday. I had actually bookmarked this place years ago when I was in Jacksonville and finally got around to trying it. I am really glad I did. It has a speakeasy feel, as you would expect from a place called, the Volstead. For you non-history nerds The Volstead Act was the enforcement mechanism of Prohibition, when liquor was outlawed from 1920-1933. The entrance is unmarked, as a speakeasy should be, so I walked passed it at first. Once I found it, you walked into a little barbershop area, through a curtain, and voila. I was there for happy hour, so it wasn't crowded. There was ample seating both at the bar and the chairs and sofas around the bar. This also meant that there were some great cocktail deals. I started with a daquiri. I love a classic daquiri (Hemingway style, not the frozen concoction you get a pool bar). I also had a gin and tonic. Both were great, but the standout was a drink called Road to Redemption. It was not a happy hour special, but the bartender told me it was unique and only around for a limited time. I'm glad I hung around and tried it. It was so delicious and one of the best drinks I've had in a while. I hope they decide to keep it around. The bartender was friendly and efficient. I really dug the vibe and would definitely recommend to anyone in the area. If, I find myself back in town I will return.

I had a nice experience here at The Volstead. I love the jazz/blues vibes. They have a good variety of drinks. The staff is very chill but still professional.

Loved this cool little speakeasy tucked away in downtown Jax. Great atmosphere, great cocktails. Definitely check it out.

Love this hidden gem. It's all dark and mysterious but their drinks are delicious and their Service is pretty good too. It gets packed on the weekends. Ambiance is like no other. Hopefully the photos tell you a bit of the story. Very cute spot for a date.

Great service and great drinks not much more I need to say. During my short visit to Jax I visited this place back to back nights. Check them out

Delicious drinks and cool atmosphere! Smack down in the middle of downtown jacksonville. It's a great bar that has a cool vibe. They try to replicate a speakeasy. From the outside, this place doesn't look like a bar. There's a large menu of cocktails they can make with their bartenders who are very talented. I highly recommend this place. It's very dark and personal in case you'd like to go with someone special. They are very clean. Do not service food.

We were going to the Florida theatre for a show and took the short walk down to have a drink before hand. Really great craft cocktails. Loved the vibe. My drink had snow and a rubber duckie. It also tasted great as well!

The entrance will blow your mind (hair) away. Service was amazing and the ambiance was beautiful.

I absolutely love this place. The Bartenders make wonderful drinks. This Bar is an asset to downtown Jacksonville, Florida. Good times had by all here, no doubt. They have a back part of the bar that can be reserved for special events & occasions.

Had such a high hope to visit this place. Came for happy hour. Unwelcoming and unfriendly bartender. Ordered old fashioned, but as the big ice cube melted, the water from ice tasted like an old fridge like smell, terrible water taste. Could not finish my drink. I was also expecting a speakeasy, but the ambiance felt like i was inside of a big garage. Will not be back.

Quality is the main reason to come to this speakeasy. I have been there before at night but went there for happy hour during Art fest. The deals for happy hour are pretty good but I went for my favorite drink: the dirty martini. Or in my case filthy! I know I can't make one myself but this mixologist was a true artisan. Just the right balance of vodka, vermouth and olive. Loved it. In previous visits with friends we sat in the back patio and it was really cool. This time since it was daylight out it looked very dingy and smelly possibly from the restaurant next door. Other times I have enjoyed the live music and chill atmosphere. Definitely a good place to grab a drink or 2 knowing it will be worth the while. Generally a good crowd. I even saw a wedding reception here on my first visit.

Favorite bar in Jax by far; what a true bar should be! Alice and Cody were awesome and made the best strawberry lavender moscow mules I've ever had. Will always be back!

You had me at hearing Nirvana playing as I entered through the curtain~ I have been wanting to go here forever!!! There was always some reason I didn't make it. Tonight's plans changed and I said lets go and Debbie obliged. I think she was quite shocked I hadn't been and after sitting down at the bar- I agree, I am shocked I waited too long to enjoy one of their craft, artisan cocktails. Right now there is an event rolling across multiple venues by Angel's Envy- Toast the Trees and I missed the event here but still could order the craft cocktail and get my passport stamp. What a drink! The hibiscus petals on top, the chocolate bitters you could taste on the back end, just a delicious cocktail. PLUS tonight was Manifest Distillery night~ ahhhh, yeeessssss!!! I ordered the Manifest Citrus Mule and was entered into a contest to win a bottle of their liquor. I LOVE local distilleries- who am I kidding, I love distilleries. They have slowly been stepping up to the brewery level and more and more you can get tastings and tours at distilleries. Manifest is marvelous! And that Citrus Vodka has already been bought and consumed in my household! Our bartender- craft mixologist, liquor artisan was Garrett (I really hope I got his name right) was simply fantastic! Personable, charming, witty and made us some wicked drinks! I cannot wait to return! The music was just my style, the bar classic and a mesmerizing feel! I will be back!!!

This has been my favorite bar in Jacksonville for years, and it is still the number one place in Jax I bring visitors from out of town. The vibe is immaculate and the staff (namely Reed, per today) is always spectacular. I'm a sucker for a unique cocktail and there are always plenty here. The menu changes, but if you get in soon, try Satanic Cheerleader. I insist that you use this as a first date spot. Hasn't failed me yet.

Dark, atmospheric and great hidden spot. Haven't ate there but the drinks are on a rotation so that's fun and they've always been delicious. Service has been just fine

Hands down the best speak-easy bar in Jax. Actually, the best I've been to, and probably my favorite bar in general (but I love downtown so I'm partial). Other speak-easies I've been to are usually a bit pretentious and a slightly overpriced. This one has the perfect vibes, decor, decently priced (good happy hour too) and is actually clandestine. Bartenders are friendly and attentive, and they do their best when they're super busy. Check them out anytime, but they have live music for art walk (first Wednesday of the month when Covid is over) and free swing dancing lessons on Sundays.

Volstead is always such a good time. It's worth the $12 cocktails. The artistry is exceptional and they change menus every season. I love bringing friends here and getting one or two drinks. The drinks are strong and in a way that's perfectly balanced. They have events every month but I haven't been to any. Please look for the guy outside that checks IDs. I told my coworker about this place and felt awful that he didn't know exactly where it was and never got in. It's supposed to be a bit speakeasy-ish. I guess it worked.

Cheyenne (was hoping to get the correct spelling on my reciept) is awesome. One MUST TRY her Bolder Bean cocktail. On the menu, the base spirit is gin. She must've read me (or she naturally just provide good service) when I inquired about the drink and asked if I prefer whiskey. Duh! Admittedly, I was afraid the ingredients might take the profile to a place iI wouldn't be fond of. However, I thoroughly enjoyed the balance of the cocktail. For my next drink, I asked for a whiskey-based classic. Instead, she pointed me to a gin-based menu item that worked well with whiskey. VERY happy with her rec. I was enjoying Cheyenne's recommendations so much so that I had to renege on my "two-drink promise" to my wife and opt for one last hurrah. For my last cocktail, I thought I'd challenge her with a vague profile. "I want a whiskey-based cocktail with an egg-white foam." After a brief second, she came up with a spin of an off-menu classic that hasn't been offered to me from other mixologists when I make that request. Her idea: Raspberry bourbon smash tied together with my foam. It was delicious! Bottom line... I'm definitely coming back. I may not have any other reason to be in Jax other than Volstead. I'll even go out of my way if I have to. 'Til next time, Volstead. 'Til next time.

Great speakeasy atmosphere with a fun and knowledgeable staff. Drinks are excellent! Will be back soon

This place is really cool. It has the whole speakeasy thing going on and is surprisngly effective. I sat next door at the poke place for about an hour for lunch earlier that day and had no idea it was next door. I sat at the bar and the bourbon selection is huge. Not a ton there by way of unicorn bottles but most people dont drink them anyways, just ask the price and keep it moving. There was a deal going on for cheap Miller cans so I had a few of those and a couple pours of Michter Sour Mash which is hard to come by in VA. I chatted with the manager for awhile and he was a cool guy. Overall, I really liked this place. The vibe is cool, it was really busy in a good way, and the staff was friendly. I'll definitely be back next time I'm in town for work.