From 1920 to 1933 the consumption of alcoholic beverages was strictly prohibited in America. That prohibition caused many Americans to visit secret clubs when they wanted to imbibe. These clubs were often located in the back room of a restaurant and only those who knew the secret word or phrase could enter. Because of its location guests of these clubs were warned to “speak easy” so that legitimate restaurant goers wouldn’t hear what was going on right under their noses.

Violette’s Cellar is a modern day restaurant containing a maze of rooms – including a speakeasy room – in which guests can enjoy quality food and original beverage options created by Chef Peter Botros.

The Wine Room provides up to 6 guests with an intimate dining experience among the hundreds of bottles of quality wine.

The Crate Room seats 18 guests comfortably. Perfect for corporate meetings or intimate dinner parties.

The Tosca Room is an elegantly appointed room featuring naturally reclaimed wood and an ornately carved ceiling. It seats 160 guests comfortably so it is perfect for weddings or other occasions.

Perhaps the most interesting room is the Button Room. This secret room is hidden behind a bookcase off the main dining room. Guests step through the doorway and are instantly transported back in time to a 1920s rustic tavern with the mystique of a speakeasy. A button studded bar is the focal point of this room that contains ornate mirrors and tufted furniture to accommodate 65 seated guests comfortably.

Violette’s Cellar offers a brunch menu, a dinner menu, a dessert menu, a party menu and a cocktail menu. Dinner items include: short rib ravioli, lamb meatballs and brisket sliders perfect for sharing.

Brunch is served 7 days a week with a menu that includes: chicken and waffles, Philly cheese steak and eggs, lobster benedict, Italian bread french toast and french toast bread pudding made with brioche.

The dessert menu includes a Nutella cheesecake cannoli, pumpkin spice pana and a cookie butter crepe cake.

The cocktail menu is as authentic as the food menu. Sin & Tonic, Tepache and Man Bun are among the extensive original cocktails created for Violette’s Cellar. The Man Bun contains barrel aged vanilla and hibiscus infused Titos, pineapple juice, blue curacao, fresh lime juice, crème de cassis and violet bitters served in a hibiscus crystal rimmed glass for $13.

Violette’s Cellar is open 7 days a week beginning at 9am for brunch. An enjoyable meal with cocktails averages $45 per person. Violette’s Cellar is located at 2271 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306, (718) 650-5050.