SPOKANE, Wash. — A speakeasy bar is set to open in Downtown Spokane in August.
The bar, Scofflaws Books, will be located in the American Legion Building on North Washington. The historic structure was built in 1900. It originally housed the Spokane Club, along with 50 single occupancy hotel rooms and apartments. In 1948, it became home to the American Legion Post.
The building sat vacant in the 1980s and 1990s. The building now serves as a space for offices, a wine bar and lounges.
The owner, Bryan Harkey, has worked behind several different bars in Spokane. He said the city is ready for a speakeasy.
Harkey said the rich history of the building made it ideal for his speakeasy.
"I didn't know exactly what type of bar I was going to open and kind of the space alone made me go, 'Okay, what's something cool old style bar would fit well in here,'" Harkey said.
Next to the Unforgiven Lounge, the only thing you'll see from the outside of Scofflaws Books is a wall of books with only one way to access the bar behind.
“If you pull a clearly marked book a door will open to go inside of the bar,” Harkey explained.
Once you get through the secret entrance, you'll find a prohibition themed bar with customer counters and booths. It's a cozy space that can host about 60 people. Harkey hopes the speakeasy will be a place for people to relax and take a step back in time.
Guests will enjoy a variety of whiskeys, some beers and craft cocktails. There will not be a kitchen, but Harkey plans to offer bar snacks and Charcuterie boards. As for the restroom, that space will be shared with Unforgiven and Left Bank Wine Bar.
Harkey anticipates an opening date in August.