Prohibition-era speakeasies (1920–1933)
During nationwide alcohol prohibition, thousands of bars operated without any license, hidden from police. Serving alcohol was simply illegal.
Raids were constant; many operators were arrested.
Prohibition's failure helped repeal the 18th Amendment in 1933.
A contrast: Pizza Veloce isn't dodging the rules. NYC explicitly lets it serve while its permit is pending — legal operation before the final stamp.
