In Confidence

“Where’s the door?” My Belly Up companion asked this as we wandered into Hotel Fort Des Moines, inspecting possible entryways to an alleged secret speakeasy.

The hotel concierge pointed to the nearby Hobnob Coffee and Wine Bar. Close to the bar area, the waiter directed us to a clear glass knob attached to what resembled a kitchen cabinet door — no secret code word needed. She led us down a dark stairwell to experience In Confidence.

The windowless, dimly lit room features a complete bar set up. The spruced-up space offers a Roaring 1920s ambiance with its exposed brick columns and cement floors. Ornate chairs, cast iron tables and unique lighting fixtures — along with velvet chairs and ornamental rugs — complete the look. A huge, wall-length velvet drape obscured another private room, begging one to take a sneak peek at the patrons.

In Confidence, located at 1000 Walnut in Des Moines, opened two years ago in a former Hotel Fort Des Moines basement and storage area. Rumor has it that the hotel housed a speakeasy at one point, but folks can’t agree if it was on the fourth, seventh or 11th floor. The hotel opened in 1919 and was the most expensive hotel built in Iowa, costing $1.5 million. It was frequented by Charles Lindbergh and Katherine Hepburn, plus numerous presidents and other celebrities over the years.

In Confidence only serves cocktails; if you want food, hit the spots upstairs first — either Proudfoot and Bird or the Hobnob Coffee and Wine Bar.

Reservations are suggested, and they encourage all patrons to have a seat, as they discourage a standing room-only environment. Bartender Alina explains, “We want a relaxed vibe and not too overcrowded.” 

Hand-crafted drinks run from $14 to $21 on their cocktail list. Beer starts at $6 and wine by the glass at $10. You can spend more on high-end spirits and wine bottles.

If you are looking for a deal, happy hour makes for happier prices. Thursdays through Saturdays from 5-7 p.m. get you $5 craft beer cans, $3 domestic beers, half-price wine glasses and $8 dirty martinis, Old Fashions and spritzes.

Opt for one of the smoked Old Fashioneds. The shaken cocktail is poured over a giant single ice cube and smoked in a glass enclosure. As the bartender encouraged me to open it, a smoky whiff smelled like a cozy campfire.

Other drinks, such as the Rosemary Bramble Sour, are made with Tito’s Vodka, lemon juice and berry syrup — topped with a sprig of burnt rosemary — for $15. After Alina blew out the smoke on the plant, she admits her obsession: “I get to play with fire every day.”

On Thursday evenings, a Prohibition feel includes live jazz music and cocktail specials.

In Confidence takes one back in time and conjures up thoughts of Al Capone slinking through underground tunnels to seek refuge right where we sat. It confirms the allure of something old — where you can hide in the basement and forget about life for a while. ♦