In the late 1800's, downtown Benicia was lined with Card Rooms, Saloons, and Brothels. We called that "The good ol' days!"
Harry's Saloon was a small saloon at the intersection of 1st Street, and C Street, with a popular brothel upstairs. Often host to gold miners, military personnel, local and state politicians, Harry's Saloon and Brothel thrived. In 1919 Congress ratified the 18th Amendment to the US Constitution, banning the production, importation, transportation, and sale of alcoholic beverages. The ban was in place from 1920 until it was finally repealed with the 21st Amendment to the US Constitution on December 5, 1933. This didn't stop the politicians from frequenting the illicit establishment, often using the secret tunnels to move freely without being noticed. After the repeal of Prohibition Harry's Saloon slowly faded from the popular drinking scene, and was finally abandoned and boarded up. Once completely forgotten, the original Harry's Saloon was recently re-discovered during renovation at The Loft Wine Bar and Restaurant. Breaking through an existing wall, one can only imagine the excitement and astonishment of such an amazing find! After many months of cleaning, repairs, and some modernization, Harry's Saloon is being re-opened as The Office Speakeasy and Piano Lounge! Featuring classic 'Prohibition Cocktails', premium sipping spirits, and great food, The Office will transport you back into a more interesting period in time. With music from a restored 1902 upright piano, in a secret hidden room!
