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
Nearby Places
Squirrel
Nestled near the corner of popular Blair Street, Squirrel offers a warm and inviting haven complemented by a menu that showcases the best of Wellington’s producers and suppliers.
Boar and Blade
Whether you’re in need of a quick trim or a hot towel shave, the boys at Boar and Blade will have you looking your freshest in no time.
Swimsuit
Community is definitely the feel you get here too - expect to see people reading books, catching up on university goss, and all with impeccable coffee in hand.
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.
Similar Places
Frank's Newtown
Frank’s Newtown is a little replica of its sibling café on The Terrace and has found itself to be a quickly loved part of Newtown culture.
Zelati
From the texture to the rich, bright flavours, their range of sorbet and gelato offerings are impressive on the palate and pleasing to the eye.
Trade School Kitchen
Described as the ‘living room of the Naenae community’, Trade School Kitchen is a not-for-profit community based cafe doing what it can to give back to its people.