Lubbock’s Hidden Speakeasy Revealed

By: Annie Kinnison

Manhattan 9, Lubbock’s first speakeasy bar, offers a variety of martinis, cocktails and drinks expertly crafted using the highest quality alcohol at a premium price. Designed to mimic a 1920s prohibition-era lounge, guests walk the red carpet under the marquee lights only to be met by a bouncer who plays the part well. As guests enter, they are taken back in time to nearly one century ago when flapper girls stole the spotlight and drink menus were hidden in the pages of magazines. 

Before visiting, be sure to check the Manhattan 9 social media pages for the entry password of the day or text “password” to (833) 451-3289 for early access.

The speakeasy operates under the ownership of Billy Rizzo, who also owns and operates Stella’s, a local Italian restaurant and deli. With New York roots and his mother’s famous Rizzo family recipes, Billy and his family made their way to Lubbock, Texas in the late 1980s, bringing with them the family business: Stella’s.

As the owner and genius behind one of Lubbock’s finest dining locations, guests are welcomed with the opportunity to experience the meaningful memories of Billy’s childhood through his lens as they step foot through the doors into what has evolved into the restaurant, deli and speakeasy we frequent on 82nd Street. 

After closing its doors for nearly two years, Stella’s reopened with a new vision in a new location. On top of offering high-quality Italian cuisine, Manhattan 9 features unbeatable cocktails paired with an atmosphere unlike any other in the Hub City. 

To stay on par with the evolving customer trends in alcohol consumption as a result of 2020, Manhattan 9 has taken to the consumer and recognizes itself as a “pour more” bar, meaning each drink features more alcohol than others. 

A few menu highlights we recommend ordering are the “Chicago Fizz” or  “The Buck Stops Here.” For straight whiskey drinkers, you can’t go wrong with an Old Fashioned. Created with Heaven’s Door Bourbon, dark simple syrup and Angostura Bitters, each glass is garnished with a house-made maraschino cherry and a candied orange twist. Coffee lovers shouldn’t leave without trying the bar’s Espresso Martini. A smooth mix of Grind Coffee Liqueur, Jameson Cold Brew, and Kahlua garnished with ground chocolate-covered espresso beans, it’s easily one of the best in town. 

On your next trip to Lubbock, step back in time with a visit to Manhattan 9. Tag us in your social posts using #LiveLoveLubbock.