Le Vestibule ; Lausanne’s First Speakeasy Bar

Le Vestibule is the very first secret bar in Lausanne. It reveals its singular charm to those who step through its doors.

The Charm of Le Vestibule in Lausanne

The City’s First Speakeasy Bar

When three childhood friends decided to create an original place in Lausanne, Le Vestibule was born. The city’s first speakeasy bar, it revives the spirit of Prohibition. Back then, enjoying a drink required a great deal of ingenuity. Opened nearly a century later, this secret bar pays tribute to the art of the cocktail and to history. It is tucked away in the Cité district, a stone’s throw from the cathedral.

An Intimate Discovery ; Le Vestibule

The invitation from Randy, one of Le Vestibule’s partners, sparks curiosity. Entering a secret bar remains a rare experience. One March evening, a modest bookshop front appears. Behind the door, a first room reveals welcoming tables. After a few explanations of the concept, the first cocktail arrives, perfectly balanced.

The Unique Experience of Le Vestibule

The speakeasy experience is fully lived on the first floor. You just have to “push the walls” to reach a secret room, hidden behind a bookcase. This quirk surprises and makes the bar an exceptional place in Lausanne. A second cocktail is a chance to linger over the variety of the menu. The selection is well thought out: beers, gin, vodka and even absinthe, a rarity on usual menus. The mixologists revisit the great classics and also invent their own creations. To pair cocktails with sweets, the Afternoon Cocktails (in French) combine drinks and pastries.

Le Vestibule ; Tips for Your Visit

The bar stays discreet, so it is best to know the address before setting off. Seats are limited, especially at weekends. Booking or arriving early avoids disappointment. The atmosphere suits small groups and evenings for two. Before the drink, a stroll through the Cité or a break at Sisterfields (in French) rounds off the evening. Other addresses feature among these 5 cocktail bars (both in French).

A Journey Back in Time in Lausanne

To enjoy a drink in an authentic place and relive the atmosphere of Prohibition, this unusual little bar is a safe bet. Le Vestibule takes you back to Al Capone’s era with simplicity and elegance. The dim lighting and intimate setting invite you to linger. An experience that combines the magic of cocktails with a fascinating page of history. For a completely different escape, Holy Monkey (in French) takes you into the exotic world of tiki bars.

Rue Cité-Devant 4, 1005 Lausanne
Website

Le Vestibule

Article written following an invitation from Le Vestibule