Prohibition Lounge YYC

Tucked into Calgary’s energetic 17th Avenue SW, Prohibition Lounge YYC revives the spirit of the 1920s in dramatic fashion. The exterior gives little away — enter via a discreet route on 17th, and descend into an underground lounge that feels like it leapt from a noir film. Vintage décor, leather booths, muted lighting, period accents, and a curated soundtrack of swing, jazz, and early blues set the tone. Cocktails at Prohibition are more than drinks — they’re performances. Expect handcrafted classics and reimagined libations, served with flourish: smoke, stage elements, creative presentation, and story-laced menu cards. The bartenders narrate, you sip, you soak in the theme. Light sharable food rounds out the experience — think elevated bar bites to accompany the drinks rather than full entrees. Music and live entertainment are part of the draw. Jazz singers, swing bands, and occasional comedy or cabaret nights give the venue a pulse. Some nights lean quiet and conversational; others transform into theatrical evenings. The capacity is intentionally modest — the barrier to entry and the immersive experience mean the crowd is curated. Prohibition is open evenings (starting ~5 PM) and runs into the early hours on weekends, making it ideal for after-dinner drinks, date nights, or when you want to lean into a nightlife experience with flair. It’s not just a bar, but a portal to another time — a place where the spectacle complements the cocktail craft.