Cracow, like many European cities with a rich history, has a fascinating layer of hidden places that only the inquisitive adventurer can discover. Two such places are Mr. Black and LostBar, venues that are perfectly in line with the global trend of speakeasy bars, reminiscent of the American Prohibition era.

Mr. Black, located at 21 Szewska Street, is a place that could successfully appear in film noir. The establishment, although inconspicuous from the outside, hides an interior full of mysterious charm. Dark wood, subdued lights and velvet armchairs create an atmosphere conducive to discreet conversations. The bar specializes in classic cocktails with a twist - the bartenders are truly passionate about their craft, creating compositions that delight not only in taste, but also in appearance. Prices are at an average level, which, combined with the quality of the drinks served, makes this place attractive to those who appreciate good value for money.

An interesting aspect of Mr. Black is its connection to Krakow legends. According to local tales, the establishment is located in a tenement that has witnessed many mysterious events in the past. Some even claim that during a full moon, the quiet sounds of ancient music can be heard here. Although this is probably just an urban legend, it adds an extra charm to the place.

Just a few steps away, at 20 Szewska Street, is LostBar - a place that, as the name suggests, is easy to overlook. This hidden gem of Krakow nightlife offers something you can't find in vain in other places - authenticity and intimacy. The interior of LostBar is a fascinating mix of industrial style with vintage elements. The raw bricks contrast with soft sofas, and the whole place is lit with warm, subdued light.

LostBar stands out above all for its proprietary cocktails, which often refer to Krakow's traditions and history. The bartenders are eager to talk about the inspiration behind each composition, which adds depth to the experience. Prices are slightly higher than at Mr. Black, but still within reason given the quality and uniqueness of the drinks on offer.

It is interesting to note that LostBar regularly organizes themed evenings, during which you can not only enjoy unique drinks, but also learn about parts of Krakow's history. Particularly popular are the evenings inspired by the legend of the St. Mary's bugle call, during which special shots are served at full hours, and the last one always ends with an unexpected touch - a reference to the interrupted melody of the bugle call.

When traversing Krakow's streets in search of an authentic nightlife experience, it is impossible to miss two unique places that combine history, culture and a unique atmosphere. We are talking about Mercy Brown Cocktails Jazz & Burlesque and Hedwig's - venues that transport guests to completely different eras and worlds.

Mercy Brown, located at 28 Floriana Straszewskiego Street, is a true journey back in time to the 1920s and 1930s - the era of jazz, Prohibition and burlesque. The restaurant is located in a historic building, which in itself adds to its character. The interior is decorated with attention to every detail - velvet curtains, antique mirrors, stylish sofas and subdued lighting create an atmosphere of mystery and sophistication.

What sets Mercy Brown apart from other bars in Krakow are regular jazz performances and burlesque shows. Live music, performed by talented musicians, takes guests back to a time when jazz was a symbol of freedom and rebellion. Burlesque shows, on the other hand, full of elegance and subtle eroticism, are an art form that has experienced a renaissance in recent years.

The cocktail menu at Mercy Brown is a true work of art. Each drink has a story behind it and alludes to a particular character or event from the era. The bartenders, dressed in retro style, passionately talk about the inspiration behind each composition. Prices are on the higher end, but the experience Mercy Brown offers is definitely worth every penny.

An interesting curiosity is that the name of the establishment refers to a famous case from the 19th century, when a young woman named Mercy Brown was accused of vampirism. This dark story fits perfectly with the mysterious atmosphere of the place.

Moving in the direction of Wawel Castle, at 12/14 Stradomska Street, we come across Hedwig's - a place that could be the setting for a movie about wizards. The restaurant, although relatively new on the map of Krakow's nightlife, quickly gained recognition among locals and tourists alike.

Hedwig's is a bar inspired by the world of magic and wizardry. The interior is full of magical artifacts, old books, cages with (fake) owls and other elements alluding to popular stories about wizards. The ceiling is decorated with floating candles, and drinks are served in cauldrons, vials and other unusual vessels.

The cocktail menu is a real book of spells - each drink has its own magical name and properties. Bartenders, like alchemists, mix ingredients to create drinks that not only taste delicious, but also delight in appearance - smoky, color-changing or sparkling. Prices are mid-level, which, combined with the uniqueness of the experience, makes Hedwig's an attractive destination for those looking for something more than a simple drink.

It's worth mentioning that Hedwig's regularly hosts themed evenings where you can take part in magic knowledge quizzes, potion (cocktail) creation workshops or even magic trick lessons. It's a place that perfectly combines fun with creativity and allows you to forget about everyday life for a while.

To complete our journey through the hidden gems of Krakow's nightlife is Elixir Botanicals & spirits bar, located at 8/u5 Sukiennicza Street. It's a place that uniquely combines the world of botany with the art of cocktails, creating a space where nature meets alchemy.

Elixir is a relatively new spot on the map of Krakow's bars, but has already managed to win recognition among lovers of unusual taste sensations. The restaurant is distinguished primarily by its decor - the interior resembles a mixture of a hothouse and an alchemical laboratory. Live plants hang from the ceiling and fill every corner, creating the impression of being in a mysterious garden. The shelves behind the bar are stacked with bottles of homemade liquors, tinctures and syrups, as well as rare spirits from around the world.

What really sets the elixir apart is its approach to cocktail creation. The bartenders, or rather botanists-alchemists, use ingredients they harvest, dry and process themselves. The menu features drinks using herbs, flowers, roots and fruits, often forgotten or rarely used in cocktails. Each drink is a small work of art, not only in terms of taste, but also in terms of presentation - drinks are served in specially selected vessels, often with elements that engage all the senses.

Prices at Elixir are on the higher end, but the quality and uniqueness of the experience fully compensate for this. The restaurant also offers tastings and workshops where you can explore the secrets of botanical cocktail-making and create your own compositions under the guidance of experts.

A fascinating aspect of the elixir is its connection to Krakow's herbal traditions. Cracow has been an important center of trade in herbs and spices for centuries, and stalls selling dried herbs can still be found in the Main Square. Elixir draws on this tradition, using in its compositions plants that have been used in the region for centuries for medicinal and culinary purposes.

When comparing all five of the described places, it is worth noting their diversity and uniqueness. Mr. Black and LostBar offer a classic speakeasy experience with an emphasis on quality and atmosphere, with LostBar standing out for its more proprietary approach to cocktails. Mercy Brown takes us back in time to the jazz and burlesque era, offering not only drinks but a cultural experience. Hedwig's is escapism in its purest form - an opportunity to immerse yourself in a magical world. Elixir, on the other hand, is a return to nature and tradition, but with a modern, creative twist.

In terms of price, the cheapest option is likely to be Mr. Black, while Mercy Brown and Elixir are on the higher end of the price spectrum. In terms of atmosphere, LostBar is the most intimate, while Hedwig's is the most spectacular. For lovers of live music, Mercy Brown would be the best choice, and for those interested in botanicals and natural flavors, Elixir.

Regardless of your preference, each of these five venues offers more than just drinks - they are true experiences that remain in your memory long after you leave Krakow. It is these hidden gems that create the true character of the city and allow you to experience its nightlife from a completely different perspective.