The Rum Runner’s new Speakeasy lounge in Coleman offers cocktails, tapas and vintage vibes every Friday and Saturday night with bartender with bartender Dylan Cheyne. Nicholas L. M. Allen photo.
Nicholas L. M. Allen
Apr 30, 2025
Rum Runner’s new lounge offers cocktails, tapas and a taste of Prohibition-era charm
The Rum Runner in Coleman has added a new offering to its historic venue with the launch of a Speakeasy-style lounge in the basement of the building. Open Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. until close, the adults-only space is designed to bring a quieter, more intimate experience to the Crowsnest Pass nightlife.
“We thought it would be such a neat concept. There’s nothing like it in the area,” said Tim May, general manager of the Rum Runner, “It fits perfectly with the rum-running history in the Pass.”
The Speakeasy is dimly lit, styled with vintage decor, and features old-fashioned music and black-and-white films to complete the atmosphere. Patrons can enjoy a menu of cocktails, high-end wines, unique beers and small tapas-style plates.
May said the response so far has been overwhelmingly positive. He added that the venue is planning special events, including live music, murder mystery nights, and a Prohibition-themed burlesque show later this summer.
“There’s so many options with what we can do,” said May, “It’s something totally unique to the area.”
Bartender Dylan Cheyne, who brings about 10 years of bartending experience from pubs to fine dining, said he is excited about what the Speakeasy offers that other local establishments do not.
“There’s not enough cocktails here in the Pass,” said Cheyne, “You’re getting something different than just the same beer you’ve had every day.”
The menu features classic cocktails like margaritas, Manhattans and old fashioneds, alongside more unique offerings such as the Pink Lady, Hanky Panky and Part Time Lover, a colourful gin-based drink with grenadine, lime and a sugar rim.
The Speakeasy also offers a tapas menu designed for sharing, including dishes like crab rangoons and the popular Bootlegger pizza, topped with a bacon and onion relish on a flatbread crust.
Cheyne described the Speakeasy as “loungy, low key and classy,” encouraging guests to chat with the bartender or neighbours instead of the typical pub atmosphere.
“Music’s always playing. I’m a friendly guy, so come say hello,” he said.
May said he hopes people will visit, experience the atmosphere and consider dressing up in vintage attire to complete the Speakeasy experience.
“It would be great to do a proper prohibition-themed event during Heritage Weekend,” said May.
The Rum Runner’s new Speakeasy is open to guests 18 years and older.
