Don't Worry, You're on the List

Unlike the speakeasies of the 1920s, you don't need a secret password to get into this week's featured hot spot.

October 10, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes

If you think the O.C. is short on culturally cool nightlife, you clearly haven’t stumbled upon the hidden gems tucked away in unexpected places—like speakeasies inside office buildings! This week, we’re spotlighting one of our favorites, Helen’s Cocktails in Laguna Beach. Tucked away in a nondescript office space on PCH, it’s the ultimate secret spot for those in the know. 🕵️‍♀️

In this issue, we’re sharing all the deets on this special place, along with a curated list of other must-visit night spots for this week. Who’s ready to go out?🎉

Everything In This Issue

Secret Cocktails in an Office? Yep, It’s Helen’s in Laguna Beach 🍹📚

A lot of so-called “speakeasies” brag about being hidden gems, but let’s be honest—most of them are just small lounges tucked inside restaurants, hiding in plain sight. Sure, they’re fun, but calling them “speakeasies” feels a bit… off, right? A true speakeasy should capture that original vibe—a secret spot (usually illegal back in the day) where rebellious souls could sneak a drink. The thrill wasn’t just the cocktail—it was the rush of maybe, just maybe, getting caught. 🤫

Enter Helen’s Cocktails in Laguna Beach, where they get it. This place doesn’t just pay homage to the Prohibition-era speakeasy; it is a modern-day hidden treasure. Tucked away in an office space—yep, carpeted floors, office chairs, the works—Helen’s brings a whole new level of “hidden in plain sight.” It’s the perfect blend of unexpected and cool, making every visit feel like you’ve stumbled upon the O.C.’s best-kept secret… and don’t worry… it’s not actually illegal and you don’t need to know a secret password to get in.

Everything You Need to Know About Helen’s Cocktails

  • 📍 Location: 31722 CA-1, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

  • ⏱️ Hours: Open Fridays 5-10pm / Saturdays 2-10pm / Sundays 12-9pm ONLY

  • 🍸 Menu: Array of cocktails and bar favorites, you can also order food at Ahba and eat it at Helen’s. Helen’s Cocktails is technically Ahba restaurant’s extended lounge and patio!

  • 👪 Ok for Kids? Technically kids can come to Helen’s, but the vibe after dark is decidedly adult. We would not recommend this for a family night out.

  • 👯‍♀️ Best For: This place is perfect for a date night, girls’ night out or to mix and mingle.

  • 📒 Reservations? No reservation needed at Helen’s, but it does get fairly busy after 8pm. So get there early if you want to grab a prime spot.

Follow Ahba Restaurant on IG for Updates on Helen’s Cocktails 👀

Helen’s Cocktails is Owned by Ahba Restaurant in Laguna

On our last trip to Helen’s we arrived at Ahba for dinner around 7:30pm. It was super busy so it took a bit to get our food, but it was well worth the wait! After finishing dinner at the restaurant we headed over to Helen’s just a few doors down. By then it was about 9pm and Helen’s was busy busy! It was such a unique atmosphere and truly memorable night. We highly recommend stopping by Ahba for dinner first before checking out this hidden lounge.

⏱️ Last Minute Plans - This Weekend

No reservation? No problem! Here are a few of our favorite options for last minute weekend plans.

👪 Top Picks: Family-Friendly Nights Out

This month is full of family-friendly nighttime events happening all over Orange County! We’ve picked a few of our favorites to share this week.

👯‍♀️ Top Picks: Girls' Night Out

🎨 Get Together for a Painting Workshop at Timree’s Studio in Newport Beach
Timree is famous for her unique painting style and fun studio atmosphere! Known as the “Pioneer of Paint Parties”, Timree’s classes have been voted one of the Top 10 Art Classes in the United States. Check her out on Instagram to see what all the fuss is about!

🏖️ Book a Vintage-Inspired Picnic at the Beach Hosted by Gather
Take your next girls’ night out to another level with a catered picnic on the coast complete with a photo-worthy, gorgeously restored, white VW van! This truly unique experience has to be seen to be believed. Follow Gather on Instagram for more insights.

🍷 Set Sail on a Sunset Wine Cruise out of Dana Point
Sunset cruise with sips and snacks? What else could you ask for? This is a great pre-game option, then followed up by dinner at one of the restaurants in or near Dana Point Harbor.