Craftails Speakeasy brings mixology with Prohibition era flair to downtown Bradenton
Many of the buildings on Old Main Street, also known as 12th Street West, were around to see prohibition come and go between 1920 and 1933.
Buildings like the Iron Block building, 530 12th St. W., which was built in 1896, and Jennings Arcade, 417 Old Main Street, which was built in 1926, are just two that were around during those days.
Craftails Speakeasy, which opened in November at 436 12th St. W., is a tribute to the time when Americans could not legally buy, sell or drink alcoholic beverages, but somehow managed to quench their thirst anyway.
They could get their hooch at a speakeasy —an illegal, underground drinking establishment — or by buying white lightning from their favorite bootlegger or perhaps making their own bathtub gin.
“We’re a speakeasy serving prohibition-era cocktails and atmosphere,” said manager Richard Amato. “We wanted to bring something classy to downtown Bradenton.
“A lot of the clientele we have been looking for have been coming in. Business has been excellent,” he said.
Among the most popular selections are Espresso Yourself martinis, Old Fashioneds and “Sweet Heat” mezcal margaritas.
“We are passionate about our craft and like to be creative with our drinks and give guests an experience they won’t forget,” Amato said.
Or, as they say, Craftails Speakeasy is a place, “Where every sip reveals a secret and every cocktail tells a story.”
Craftails Speakeasy has a large selection of spirits, including tequila, gin, bourbon, Irish whiskey, scotch, whiskey and rum, as well as a rotating selection of craft beers.
What to know
▪ Name: Craftails Speakeasy
▪ Address: 436 12th St. W., Bradenton
▪ Hours: 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and 4 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday
▪ Live entertainment: Pianist and vocalist Pat Walsh performs 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursdays. Saxophonist Justin Green performs 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays.
▪ Dress: Relaxed, but no hats or jerseys allowed.
▪ Online: Craftails Speakeasy Facebook page.
