Hidden bars and restaurants are among my favorite types of places to explore during my journeys across Massachusetts. I find these establishments to be extra special when they are located in unexpected spots. OIYS has already told you about Bogie’s Place, a secret adults-only steakhouse in Boston, and the hidden tasting room at Deacon Giles Distillery in Salem. Did you know that there is also a speakeasy tucked inside a hotel in downtown Peabody, Massachusetts? Word is out about the secret “Cellar.”

The Cellar is a fabulous spot located in the basement of the Bell Inn. The beautiful inn recently opened for business and is already becoming a popular destination for tourists and local visitors.

This fascinating property was once an important meeting spot for soldiers during the American Revolution. For years, this historic building, which was built around 1740, sat vacant and in disrepair. It is located close to my home and I always hoped that someone would save it from demolition.

You can imagine how happy I was when I found out that the property was purchased and being converted into a boutique hotel. The Bell Inn opened its doors in the fall of 2023. It has eight upscale guest rooms and both the interior and exterior retain many original architectural details. The inn contains several places to enjoy a meal, including “The Cellar” speakeasy.

I finally got to visit recently and I'm so glad that I went! My husband and I originally planned to eat at The Tavern, but this popular spot was completely booked for the night. We decided to head downstairs and eat at The Cellar. The speakeasy is more casual than the inn’s restaurant but still has the same menu.

The Cellar can be accessed either through an outside entrance or a narrow staircase within the inn.

The atmosphere is dim, yet cozy and comfortable. The brick and fieldstone walls and antique furnishings definitely reminded us that we were dining in a historic spot.

I loved this old birdcage elevator! It was the perfect place to snap a photo.

We grabbed a seat at a wooden table in the main speakeasy room and perused the menu. Food and drink orders were taken by ordering at the bar. The menu was full of classic regional dishes such as local oysters and clam chowder, as well as hearty dishes like braised beef short ribs and baked mac and cheese.

I decided to go vegetarian for the night and ordered the sweet potato bisque and pumpkin risotto. They were both beyond delicious!

The drinks at The Cellar were also fantastic! There were several classic cocktails, mocktails, wine, beer, and whisky selections.

The Tavern and Cellar also have weekly specials, as well as discounts for children and veterans (on select days). I can’t wait to try out the brunch menu!

Have you taken a secret visit to The Cellar? If so, please tell us all about your experience! More information can be found on The Bell Inn & Tavern's website and The Bell Inn & Tavern's Facebook page.

If you are interested in staying overnight at The Bell Inn, you can book a reservation right through Expedia. While you are in Peabody, be sure to visit Karl’s Sausage Kitchen and European Market.