The Library
Monday5:00 – 11:00 pm.
Tuesday5:00 – 11:00 pm.
Wednesday5:00 pm – 12:00 am.
Thursday5:00 pm – 12:00 am.
Friday5:00 pm – 1:00 am.
Saturday5:00 pm – 1:00 am.
Sunday5:00 – 11:00 pm.
Hidden behind an unassuming ground floor entrance, The Library is another well-known establishment that overlooks the go-go crowd of Courtenay Place. It’s what’s on the inside that counts however, as is immediately apparent upon entering. The dark wooden interior is healthily endowed with books of every size, shape and subject making this bar about as educated and rum-soaked as Hemingway’s beard.
Patrons are usually seated by the welcoming staff, so it pays to call in advance if you’re coming with the circus in tow. Wherever you end up there’s an assortment of tables, booths and elegant old couches to slide into. More speakeasy than bar or public library, it’s fitting that they haven’t skimped on the reading material, let alone the booze.
From cognac to dessert wine, port and sherry to single malts, and some rarer treats – it’s a safe bet the Library will have your poison of choice at hand. The infamous Drunken Pirates Tropical Grog is most definitely worth a courageous dab, though it’s limited to three per person per evening, which is just as well for the sake of wallet and head the next morning.
Not to be missed is this bibliothèque’s collection of cheeses and sweet ‘n savoury delicacies. The beef bourguignon pastries are a stand-out, best chased with the Earl Grey Crème Brûlée or a rum-infused hot chocolate. Tuesday is one step further from Monday, and a good night to take advantage of two-for-one desserts. Wednesday is looking even better with two-for-one cocktails. Tell them you’ll be at the Library.
Words by Matt Paterson & Photography by Naomi Haussmann
Information not correct? Report an error
Location
1/53 Courtenay Place, Te Aro, Wellington
Nearby Places
Mr Go's
A happy mix of West meets East, pink meets green, and beer meets bao, Mr Go’s is proof that an eatery needn’t stick to one concrete theme.
Hanging Ditch
Hanging Ditch, for those who are yet to visit, is Leeds’ Street best little slice of stealth.
Ortega Fish Shack
A favourite amongst Wellingtonians, Ortega Fish Shack is a must go-to seafood restaurant within the city.
Mabel's
When it comes to evoking a sense of identity through spatial design, few restaurants in the capital do it better than Mabel’s.
Similar Places
The Raumati Social Club
Raumati Social Club is a bit of an institution at Kāpiti Coast.
Noble Rot
Boasting an almost 1,000-strong wine list, it’s no surprise that Noble Rot is widely considered Wellington's premier wine bar.
Margot
Tucked away in the heart of Newtown in Wellington is the little restaurant, Margot.
Cake & Kitchen
Cake & Kitchen is a cafe in Upper Hutt, bringing people together over delicious food and coffee.