Luxe Speakeasy Opens in Downtown Houston Hotel

Parlour Hideaway

Although the C. Baldwin hotel opened downtown a few years ago, the debut of its new speakeasy is likely to appeal to visiting and local cocktail lovers alike. Parlour Hideaway is a chic, sophisticated space with elegant floral touches and a contemporary-yet-classic vibe. It is accessed via a secret door near the Lobby Bar, and serves as an exclusive private event space that accommodates up to 65 guests for occasions such as personal parties, corporate events and other celebrations.

Event hosts and their guests will be privy to an exclusive cocktail and catering menu developed by celebrity chef Chris Cosentino, who also creates the food menu for Rosalie Italian Soul, the hotel restaurant. Highlights include luxury caviar service, a premium cocktail and Champagne menu and plated dishes such as Truffle-Taleggio Grilled Cheese, Bacalao Fritters (salted cod) served with Mentaiko Aioli (spicy cured pollack roe), and Jalapeño Arancini Poppers. All this can be enjoyed beneath the custom-designed, eight-foot diameter crystal chandelier in the center of the room.

Parlour Hideaway bar area
The bar area of Parlour Hideaway, the speakeasy at the C. Baldwin Hotel. Photo by Julie Soefer.

Charlotte Baldwin Allen is both the hotel’s namesake and Parlour Hideaway’s design inspiration — along with women in general. “The space was inspired by the traditional speakeasy, but not defined by it,” said its award-winning designer Kate Rohrer, of Philadelphia’s ROHE Creative. “We wanted the space to tell the story of a woman’s many complexities. While beautiful on the surface, there is always a soul.” The room’s foundation includes a pink bar, jade green artwork and marble fireplace lounge area with numerous custom elements: Victorian millwork, botanical wallpaper and velvet pillows.

“C. Baldwin represents the best of what downtown Houston has become, and the new Parlour Hideaway continues that narrative,” said Chris Niederschulte, general manager of C. Baldwin. “We created an intriguing event space unlike anything else Houston has to offer, and we are thrilled to open our doors.” 

Reservations can be made for private events for any day of the week. Reserve by emailing the events contact

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