BATON ROUGE, La. — A little mystery, a lot of vintage charm and a cocktail menu with names that are almost as playful as the space itself are tucked away inside Circa 1857.

Hearsay Social Club, a new craft cocktail speakeasy, is giving visitors another reason to explore the vintage marketplace on Government Street.

The hidden bar opened about five weeks ago, according to owner Garrett Kemp, who wanted the space to feel both new and rooted in the history surrounding it.

“So we're inside my new bar called Hearsay Social Club which is inside Circa 1857,” Kemp said.

Bold colors, vintage furniture and quirky details fill the space, creating an atmosphere that changes from corner to corner.

Kemp said the bar’s design was intentional, drawing inspiration from the idea of old-fashioned gossip and the stories that may have been shared by the people who once owned or used the furniture now inside the bar.

“We really wanted to utilize that sort of gossip theme… to think about how many people have sat in these chairs before us and how many stories they might have shared,” Kemp said.

One of the couches inside dates back to the 1930s, adding another layer of history to a space built around conversation and connection.

Visitors have their own descriptions for the atmosphere.

“Chic, very creative, moody, a little mysterious,” said Candra Burges.

For Graham Montgomery, one word stands out.

“Inclusive. Very inclusive,” Montgomery said.

Montgomery said the bar is still becoming known among Baton Rouge residents, in part because of its tucked-away location.

“I think a lot of people aren't going to expect it and people are still learning about it… you have to check it out… it's hidden,” Montgomery said.

The craft cocktail menu continues the playful theme with drinks including the Coconut Under Glass, Puns Don't Kill People Honeydew and the Olive Branch.

For Kemp, the goal is to create more than just another place to grab a drink — it’s a space where the setting, the history and the people who walk through the door become part of the story.

Hearsay Social Club is located inside Circa 1857 in Baton Rouge.