Ssshhh…I'm talking to myself because I am absolutely, positively not allowed to tell you where the Savannah speakeasy, Mata Hari's, is located. Lucky for them, I am pretty good at keeping secrets. Besides if everybody knew, it wouldn't be any fun.
Mata Hari is sexy speakeasy in Savannah, Georgia that only allows entry through its discreet doors with a key.
How do you get a key? You need to know someone who knows someone with one. Lucky for you, I know a few someones willing to unlock the door for you. Keep reading.
In an unmarked, unexpected and dimly lit location you will find this private club. As you knock on the door, a small window slides open and the eyeballs staring out ask for the key. No key, no entry.


I had a key. Or rather, the blessed folks I was with had one.
Once we entered the bar, which will bring you back to the 1920's, we were greeted by a lounge singer who was on stage belting out the oldies.
Just beyond the performer was the bar which I immediately noticed was serving Absinthe. Holler! I have had several failed attempts at trying Absinthe the traditional way, by melting a sugar cube into the liquor and diluting with water. Tonight there would be success.
Absinthe, which was banned for many years due to its hallucinogenic properties, isn't that easy to find even now that the ban is lifted. And it's not as potent. You probably won't see fairies.
It has a heavy anise flavor, tasting like strong, alcoholic black licorice. Too strong for this wine girl to finish, so I followed it up with a Mata Hari Martini, which simply features a shot of absinthe mixed with other ingredients. Still strong. Looks like nothing will take the place of my beloved vino.



After an hour of drinking and mingling, we were taken into the hidden back room where the stage was set for burlesque.
We were treated to a preview of a fun and fitting show, complete with fire eaters and scantily clad women. Where do they sell those outfits? I think my husband would like one. For me to wear, not him.



See the ladies below? The ones wearing their pajamas to a swanky club? They have keys. Not on them, but back at their respective bed & breakfasts.
These are the Innkeepers at Savannah Inns, our hosts. And if you stay at any one of their four B&Bs, you can gain entry to Mata Hari's.
I am sure there are other ways to secure a coveted key, I just don't know what or how questionable they are. Maybe if you show up with pink hair, tulle on your butt and carrying a fire eating torch?
Asking a Innkeeper seems much easier.

Have you tried Absinthe before? Have you been to a speakeasy?
…and if this inspired you to experience Savannah check out the Bucket List of 25 Things to do in Savannah.
Disclosure: My visit to Mata Hari's was sponsored by Mata Hari and Savannah Inns, but all the words I write come straight from my, sometimes distorted, mind. Just as it should be.










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Haven't had either one
This looks like such a great time! You're an inspiration. Great post.
Hey, you used more than 2 Words
It was a fun and memorable night! Thanks for the kind words.
The verdict is that I want them, but I don’t want to part with the $7,000
I will probably end of going through with it, I’m just procrastinating which is not like me at all!
Looks like fun! I've always wanted to try absinthe but haven't been brave enough yet. I didn't realize it wasn't as strong now. Wonder if that's true for Europe too?
Absinthe is much stronger in Europe, but still not as strong as the real thing.
I want a key. Thanks for the tip. I'm gettin' one next time I go to Savannah!!
I hope you do! Have fun
I tried absinthe once. After about three small glasses, I melted right into the couch.
Did you see fairies?
Ha ha unfortunately not
This sounds so cool! I had a couple of shots of absinthe at a new year's party several years ago and was surprised it didn't have much for an effect on me! Not sure it was the proper stuff.
In America they are not allowed to sell Absinthe that is as strong as in Europe, but even then it’s not as strong as before the ban. I only took a couple of sips, so it didn’t do much for me either, but it was fun!
I haven't been to a speakeasy but i have recently had black absinthe. It was really strong but I liked it. It was on my bucket list
I really enjoy reading about your adventures by the way
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I haven’t heard of black absinthe, but now I want to try it!! Does it taste like black licorice too?