On New Year’s Eve, a fancy new bar opened in downtown Harrisburg. If you didn’t notice, that’s okay: 205 is a speakeasy, so it’s meant to be under wraps. These days, sometimes bars call themselves speakeasies because there’s no sign out front, or the interior design calls back to the Prohibition era. But 205 is truly a speakeasy — you won’t find it walking down the street. There are pass codes and secret doors and everything like that!
Want to check out this new posh spot? We’ve got the scoop on how to get inside Harrisburg’s 205:
First: Head into Anna Rose Bakery at 205 Walnut Street.
Next: Check 205’s Facebook or Instagram accounts to see what kind of treat to order (when we went, it was a chocolate chip cookie — no complaints from us!) from the bakery counter.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bdlb9uyjOz9/?taken-by=205harrisburg
Then: The person working will slide you a piece of paper with your treat. On the paper is a secret code. Take that code, and walk into the phone booth off to the side of the bakery.
By far the best part: Enter the code into the pay phone and a SECRET PASSAGE opens, transporting you from the charming bakery into a very Gatsby-esque club.
You’re in! As you head to the bar, take a look around at the over-the-top decor, like custom drapes and carpet, the expansive, 3,000-pound marble bar and lavish back bar, plus gold statues and huge chandeliers, all inspired by old-fashioned grand hotel lobbies.
To stay in the spirit of things, order up a classic cocktail like a Manhattan or a mule (the most popular drinks so far, according to owner Ron Kamionka). We think getting decked out in your best vintage fashions would make the whole experience even more fun!
Please note: 205 is currently only open on Friday and Saturday nights from 9 p.m.–2 a.m.
Find 205 at 205 Walnut St. in Harrisburg; phone: (717) 681-3000.
- Photos: Mary Bigham
