OUR STORY

More Than Just Cocktails

In the heart of Gardner, Kansas, along the historic Santa Fe Trail, a building steeped in history stands as a silent witness to the passage of time. Once a bustling blacksmith shop, its walls echoed with the clang of hammers and the roar of the forge furnace. Today, this same building has been lovingly restored to its former glory, its original wooden timbers and brick walls a testament to its storied past. 

Nestled between two neighboring establishments—the Ash & Anvil cigar lounge, where the scent of fine tobacco mingles with the air, and The Bellows outdoor bar, where patrons gather around fire pits under the starry night sky—lies a hidden gem known as The Forge. 

The Forge is more than just a speakeasy; it's a journey back in time, where the spirit of prohibition-era rebellion thrives. To enter this clandestine establishment, one must first navigate the facade of the old blacksmith shop. With furtive glances and hushed tones, patrons approach the building, mindful of prying eyes. 

An old 1920s-era phone hangs on the wall—a relic from a bygone era. Those in the know lift the receiver and speak the coveted password: "Joe sent me." With a click and a dial tone, the phone rings on the other end, signaling their readiness for entry into The Forge. 

As the hidden door swings open, revealing the dimly lit interior of the speakeasy, patrons are transported back in time. Soft jazz music fills the air, mingling with the clink of glasses and the murmur of conversation. Original wooden beams and brickwork, painstakingly restored to their former glory, serve as a reminder of the building's rich history. 

Inside The Forge, the atmosphere crackles with energy—a blend of nostalgia and rebellion. Here, amidst the flickering candlelight and the scent of aged whiskey, patrons find solace from the outside world. They sip on carefully crafted cocktails, enjoying the company of kindred spirits as they immerse themselves in the timeless allure of the speakeasy. 

As the night unfolds, the boundaries of time blur, and for a fleeting moment, the troubles of the modern world seem a world away. In The Forge, surrounded by the echoes of the past and the camaraderie of fellow adventurers, patrons forge memories that will last a lifetime. And as they bid farewell to this hidden sanctuary, they carry with them the spirit of defiance that will continue to burn bright within the walls of The Forge for generations to come.