The Gatsby Speakeasy — Restaurant in Lake View Township

Shocking Racism at Gatsby Speakeasy - An Unbelievable Nightmare!

Our anticipation was sky-high as we stepped into Gatsby Speakeasy, ready to be transported to the enchanting world of the Roaring Twenties. Little did we know that this experience would quickly turn into a horrifying encounter with blatant racism.

Clara Rose, the delightful hostess who greeted us, set the stage for what we thought would be an unforgettable evening. With instructions and a secret password in hand, we ventured upstairs through a maze of intriguing puzzles and hidden doors.

But our excitement turned to dismay when we came face-to-face with a blonde woman behind one of these doors. Instead of welcoming us warmly, she rudely scolded us for knocking – something we thought was part of the immersive experience. Confused but determined to play along, my boyfriend tried speaking up while I possibly uttered the secret password.

To our shock and disbelief, this woman loudly accused us in front of other guests of screaming at her and disregarding directions displayed on nearby walls. The humiliation she subjected us to was reminiscent of a bygone era – treating us like outsiders simply because of our race.

In stunned silence, my boyfriend and I tried explaining that it was our first time there and genuinely believed we were following instructions correctly. But instead of listening or showing any understanding, she slammed the door shut on us while plunging the room into darkness.

Confused yet resolved not to let this racist treatment force us out from an inclusive space meant for all guests, I desperately flicked the light switch multiple times in hopes that someone would take notice. Finally relenting under pressure or due to witnesses observing her deplorable behavior through a small window panel on that door; she reopened it only long enough to accuse us again before demanding that we leave for questioning their authority.

Her words filled with disdain towards people who look like me sent shivers down my spine; it felt unsafe staying within those walls any longer. Determined yet trapped between her hostility and seeking solace from Clara Rose downstairs; I mustered every ounce of strength and pushed past her forcefully demanding directions out while exposing how deeply racist this place truly felt in that moment.

The manager Brian emerged after agonizing minutes from his secluded hideaway wearing smirks on his face – displaying his apathetic response towards customers who had been traumatized by bigotry within their establishment earlier during interactions with staff members like him. Tears streamed down my face as distress overwhelmed me at being treated as second-class solely based on skin color; Clara Rose provided comfort alongside assurances about management's intervention if necessary.

It took far too long for Brian to address our grievances reluctantly - demanding specific instances deemed racist without grasping empathy or understanding systemic issues highlighted throughout our painful encounter here at Gatsby Speakeasy. We expected more than just 1920s ambiance but didn’t anticipate living firsthand through such racial discrimination tonight serves as an intense reminder why battles against establishments perpetuating discrimination are worth fighting tirelessly until genuine inclusivity triumphs over prejudice masquerading under nostalgic themes present within this...

A Hidden Gem

Our visit to Gatsby Speakeasy was a delightful experience for my wife and me as we celebrated our 17th anniversary. I highly recommend reserving a table to enhance the experience. The ambiance takes you back in time to an era where secrets were cherished, and drinks were more than just beverages – they were an experience.

From the welcoming hostess at the bottom of the stairs to the anticipation of solving the riddle and memorizing the password on the long walk up, every moment was filled with excitement. The bouncer's eyes peering through the metal door added to the intrigue. The entire establishment exudes coziness, reminiscent of a true speakeasy from the past.

While we dressed for the occasion, we noticed that some patrons were dressed casually, which was a bit surprising. We were greeted with a glass of champagne and presented with an impressive drink menu, although we had hoped for more Gatsby-themed cocktails rather than the Alice in Wonderland theme.

The bacon-wrapped dates were a highlight, although they were so satisfying that we didn't have room to try more. We took a moment to explore the establishment, admiring the boar head, the impressive library, and the overall decor, which added to the authenticity of the experience.

Just like a real speakeasy, the exit was as memorable as the entrance, adding to the overall experience. I would rate this place higher if I could and look forward to returning...

The atmosphere is very speakeasy. We had reserved a seat in “the library” and ended up in an alcove near the bathroom with no books in the room and there were plenty of better tables available. (recommend bar room seating) Our server Nora was lovely, knowledgeable and explained the cocktails in depth including the experience of drinking them. We ordered the charcuterie board and it took over an hour for it to come out and they never did bring me the gf bread i was offered. Then at 90 min the hostess came around telling us our time was up but we could continue to enjoy our food downstairs. To reiterate, we ordered promptly but it took THEM over an hour to bring the food and now we’re are being told we’d have to uproot if we wanted to finish our food? When we tried to explain the situation, we were basically told not my job to concern myself with why, mine is basically to tell you your time is up. This is ridiculous service especially given prices. The place was not packed like they needed the table either. I wish i could give it 3.5 overall because of Nora, the ambiance and the cocktails but some of the other experiences detracted from our experience enough i...