“The problem with the world is that everyone is a few drinks behind.”
-The Maltese Falcon
Welcome to 118 Proof, the ultimate destination for vintage prohibition-style drinks and a relaxed vintage speakeasy atmosphere. Located near Orleans, Michigan, our bar is the perfect spot for those looking to step back in time and experience the charm and thrill of the Roaring Twenties. At 118 Proof, we take pride in serving meticulously crafted cocktails inspired by the prohibition era. Using only the finest ingredients and techniques from that time, our mixologists create a sensational range of vintage drinks that will transport you to a bygone era. Sip on classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Sazerac, or Sidecar, or try one of our signature creations that pay homage to the spirit of the speakeasy. Step into our bar and you’ll be immersed in a genuine vintage speakeasy atmosphere. The decor exudes the elegance and mystery of the 1920s, with dim lighting, plush leather seating, and carefully selected period artifacts. Our attention to detail creates an ambiance that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a secret world of prohibition. Whether you’re a whiskey connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of vintage libations, our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you through our extensive selection. We take pride in offering a wide range of spirits, including rare and limited-edition bottles, ensuring that every visit to 118 Proof is a unique and unforgettable experience. Join us at 118 Proof and indulge in the thrill of the prohibition era, as you savor finely crafted vintage drinks and immerse yourself in a relaxed vintage speakeasy atmosphere. Unwind, socialize, and create lasting memories at our hidden gem near Orleans, Michigan. Cheers to the good ol’ days!
Orleans during Prohibition
Title: Hidden Gems: Exploring Orleans, Michigan’s Prohibition-Era Speakeasies In the early 1920s, the Prohibition era brought about a nationwide ban on the sale, production, and distribution of alcoholic beverages. However, the resilient spirit of the American people led to the rise of clandestine establishments known as speakeasies. Orleans, a small town nestled in Michigan, was not immune to this trend, with a vibrant speakeasy culture flourishing amidst the Prohibition years. Hidden from the prying eyes of law enforcement, speakeasies became havens for those seeking to indulge in alcohol and revel in a lively social scene. Orleans boasted its fair share of these secret venues, where patrons whispered secret passwords, slid through hidden entrances, and stepped into a world where drinks flowed freely and jazz music filled the air. From discreet basement establishments to secret backrooms in seemingly ordinary buildings, speakeasies in Orleans offered an escape from the restrictions of Prohibition. These underground sites showcased the ingenuity and resourcefulness of their proprietors, featuring hidden bars, hidden trapdoors, and even secret tunnels to evade police detection. The very essence of their existence was a testament to the resilience and determination of the locals, who refused to let Prohibition dampen their spirits. Orleans speakeasies embodied a distinct sense of community and camaraderie. Strangers became friends, jazz bands played into the early hours, and the clinking of glasses fueled conversations filled with laughter and mirth. The intimate settings fostered an atmosphere of secrecy and excitement, where patrons reveled in the thrill of bending the rules. Although Prohibition was eventually repealed in 1933, the legacy of speakeasies in Orleans continues to captivate the imagination of locals and visitors alike. Today, remnants of this bygone era can still be discovered, as curious explorers stumble upon hidden rooms, secret passages, and faded traces of a time when Orleans, Michigan, danced to the intoxicating rhythms of the Jazz Age. So, if you ever find yourself in this charming town, take a moment to imagine the vibrant scenes that once unfolded within these illicit watering holes. Orleans’ speakeasies are silent witnesses to days gone by, reminding us of the resolute, rebellious spirit that could not be silenced, even in the face of nationwide prohibition.