There’s a new speakeasy hidden in Northern Virginia, and stepping behind its curtain leads you to a whole different era.
Repeal, the new Prohibition-era cocktail bar, officially opens on February 10. The bar is part of the brand-new Tempo by Hilton hotel, within Villagio Hospitality’s NOVA Live campus. Inspired by the repeal of the 18th amendment and the revelry that followed, the bar isn’t just themed — it’s theatrical.
The space itself feels like stepping into a scene from an old film. Dimmed lights, velvet seating, and black-and-white photos line the space. At a preview event on February 6, a singer in 1920s-inspired attire sang classic jazz. Servers moved through the space in flapper dresses, pearls, white gloves, flat caps, suspenders, and more.
At Repeal, the cocktail list is a “love letter to the golden age of cocktails.” The Bathtub Gin Fizz — with gin, lemon, pineapple, sparkling water, and lavender foam, served in a miniature porcelain tub — brings some playfulness to the dark atmosphere.
There are more signature cocktails, like the Pear-Per Plane, Strawberry Heaven, and Pomegranate Royal. Or, customers can go for classic cocktails like a martini or an old fashioned with Remus bourbon and cherry syrup.
Beyond drinks, Repeal’s small plates and shareables elevate the experience into dinner territory. There’s a burrata bruschetta on homemade focaccia and an ahi tuna crudo with hints of passionfruit. There are hearty options like a filet mignon entree and lobster rolls, alongside light snacks like warm olives and Cajun-spiced mixed nuts.
Repeal Speakeasy is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. or until 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Reservations are recommended. 9849 Discovery Blvd., Manassas
Feature image by Connor Duszynski
