Parovoz Speak Easy

Tucked away beneath a historic cinema on Velyka Vasylkivska Street, Parovoz Speak Easy is Kyiv’s quintessential speakeasy—opened in 2013 and inspired by the illicit charm of 1920s America. The name “Parovoz” (meaning “locomotive”) sets the tone, with interiors that mimic a vintage train carriage—complete with tin‑paneled ceilings, an old‑school back bar, atmospheric lighting, and plush, intimate seating. This bar is a veteran of the Kyiv scene and a near‑constant fixture in The World’s 50 Best Bars listings—renowned for its timeless elegance and passionate barcraft. Here, expert bartenders craft everything from Prohibition-era classics to modern signatures. Expect standout options like the Parovoz Bloody Mary, Missionary’s Downfall, and elegant twists such as Chocolate Old Fashioned or Rum Zombie. Finding your way in is part of the charm: enter the cinema, turn left, descend into the cellar—there are no overt signs, just subtle cues and even a bodyguard—giving the place its secretive allure. Once inside, the mood is warm and relaxed, yet buzzing; it’s tight on space (only about 42 seats), so during weekends it can fill fast. Guests praise the friendly, knowledgeable bartenders and rich cocktail offerings: “Parovoz is a hidden gem in Kiev, awesome cocktails, knowledgeable bartenders and nice atmosphere… absolutely worth it.” Besides drinks, there’s a concise food menu offering European shareable plates—salads, pasta, meats, and seasonal dishes designed to complement the libations. For aficionados, Parovoz runs mixology courses that even include internships behind the bar—blending education with its secretive, sophisticated spirit. All in all, Parovoz Speak Easy is where atmosphere meets mastery—immersive, refined, and irresistibly Kyiv.