While we love a cozy speakeasy any time of year, they're especially fun when the days get shorter and the nights get longer. This is also when temperatures dip, leaving us looking for cozy spots to be indoors. The speakeasy got its start in the 1920s during the time of Prohibition when the sale of alcohol was banned. These secret spots allowed people to enjoy a drink illegally, which is why the speakeasy of today has fun nooks, crannies, and entryways mimicking the secret nature of the real thing. Without further ado, here are some of the best speakeasies in Maine:

1. The Jewel Box, Portland

The name leaves quite a bit to the imagination, but that doesn't make this place any less special. While different than some of the other spots on this list in that it's located at street level, the inside vibes are dark and moody. Exactly what a speakeasy should be! Their vintage cocktails are served in the glasses they were intended for when they were created decades ago and the food is quite good. They're open Thursday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. and you can learn more on their website.

2. Lincolns, Portland

This little spot offers an escape from the everyday by bringing us back to a time when things were less expensive. Everything at the aptly named speakeasy is just $5. The bar is fun and lively, but there are lots of little corners to sit and enjoy a conversation. They're open Sunday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. You can learn more about them by visiting them on Facebook.

3. Bramhall, Portland

While not exactly a secret, the feel of Bramhall is everything a speakeasy should be. You'll find them down a flight of stairs that open into a dimly lit bar with dining areas. While they have an outdoor area, we prefer to soak it all up inside. There are lots of custom cocktails as well as a great menu filled with specials you'll only find here. They're open Tuesday through Sunday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. and you can learn more on their website.

4. Pie North at Pat's Pizza, Portland

While the other spots on this list are found underground. this unique take on a speakeasy is actually found upstairs. Located above Pat's Pizza, Pie North has tons of arcade games and gaming systems that you might remember from the good ol' days of basement sleepovers in the 90s. Stop in for a drink and for some nostalgia. They're open Thursday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. You can learn more by visiting them on Facebook or by checking out this article.

5. Blyth & Burrows & The Broken Dram, Portland

Of all the spots on this list, this one might just be the most quintessential speakeasy we've got here in Maine. To find it, you'll head to the back of Blyth & Burrows and then you'll need to know exactly which bookcase to press to let yourself in. Of course, you can also get in through the alternate entrance, but we'll let you figure that one out. Visit for great oysters and even better drinks. They're open Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. You can learn more on their website.

Do you have a favorite underground spot to visit in Maine? If you're willing to spill your secrets, let us know in the Facebook comments. We promise we won't tell!

One thing we're glad was never banned is bacon and we're even more glad that some of the best can be found right here! In fact, one Maine shop was voted to have the best bacon in the state and meat lovers totally agree.