We can’t think of a better location for the world’s first speakeasy celebrating Hip Hop's original roots to fling open its doors than on the trendy streets of Shoreditch. Roxanne (even the name is cool) is an exclusive bar from the team behind American restaurant and cocktail bar Dirty Bones, that offers a taste of 1980s New York and is inspired by the city’s legendary block parties and music.
So, what makes it exclusive? In true speakeasy style, Roxanne can be found tucked away on a side street in the E1 location, accessible via a secret door next to Dirty Bones’ Club Row site. Guests enter a laid-back lounge with dark and cosy corners, serving classic cocktails and a soundtrack celebrating Hip Hop’s roots in soul and funk. There is an intimate space for DJs and live performances and an atmosphere reminiscent of New York’s loft style house parties, complete with a state-of-the-art sound system.
The drinks-focused menu includes classic cocktails and new twists such as Tequila & Lemonade, served twisted with Casamigos Tequila, grapefruit, and Purple Perilla apertifi. There is also a selection of clarified cocktails that showcase the skill of the mixologists, while top-shelf spirits are served alongside a list of local beers and wines. To eat, the house menu is a tight list of party snacks.
The name ‘Roxanne’ was inspired by a unique moment in Hip Hop history, The Roxanne Wars: a musical battle between two famed artists of the same name. Roxanne, the speakeasy, follows the same spirit of female-power, with a playlist of powerhouse classics like Salt & Peppa and Cookie Crew. As a leading supporter of diverse talent, it hosts pioneers, soul-sisters, culture-curators, B-girls and mothers on the decks alongside a calendar of live events and new artist-showcases hosted by the genre’s upcoming talent.