The original “Scarface,” Al Capone was a larger-than-life figure in 1920s Chicago, where he ruled over a vast empire of organized crime. He was one of the FBI’s most wanted individuals until he was eventually arrested and convicted on tax evasion charges. A big part of his money and power came from racketeering, brewing and running alcohol during Prohibition, extortion, and general crime. He often resorted to violent tactics to maintain his control and power within Chicago.
But even gangsters have to eat, and Capone loved the good stuff. He grew up in Brooklyn but rose to power in the Windy City and also spent time in Florida, so he developed favorite spots in several locations. When he went to a restaurant, he often needed a way to get out quick if the law was closing in too fast. Many of the places he frequented still have secret passageways and doors that Capone and other gangsters used to enter — and get away — unseen. Here are restaurants, speakeasy bars, and hotels that can claim the notorious Al Capone as one of their patrons.
High Point Restaurant in Monteagle, TN
Built in 1929, the mansion housing High Point Restaurant in Monteagle, Tennessee was situated along a route where Capone transported alcohol around the country during Prohibition. The restaurant’s history indicates that Capone himself paid for the original hardwood flooring and light fixtures which are still in place today. Because of its use to smuggle items in and out, it had plenty of underground tunnels and even escape hatches on the roof for bootleggers to use.
It wasn’t a restaurant during Capone’s day, but this historic building was integral in his alcohol running operations. Legend has it that he sat on the patio playing cards and enjoying a drink. Today, as long as you are of legal age, you can enjoy a tipple in the same spot. The mansion was converted into a restaurant and serves a delicious selection of steak, chicken, fish, and other dishes, many of which are locally sourced. The wine list is quite extensive and includes popular reds, whites, and sparkling wines.
Luna Cafe in Mitchell, IL
With a gambling den in the basement and a convenient location for running illegal alcohol during Prohibition, the Luna Cafe was a rumored favorite spot for Capone. It was located along Route 66, which connected Chicago and Los Angeles beginning in 1926. In Capone’s time, this highway corridor was used to transport liquor. The Luna Cafe states that Capone and his crew hid out there during these trips. During their time there, they likely helped keep the small restaurant in business by gambling, partaking in their own portion of alcohol, and enjoying food…