After a long walk around Lake Merritt with my niece, I was on a mission to find a restroom. She suggested we stop by Clio's Bookstore & Bar, describing it as part bookstore, part reading lounge, and part bar. I expected a quick pit stop--I ended up wanting to stay. This place is an absolute gem. The atmosphere is eclectic, cozy, and full of personality. The shelves are lined with books spanning more eras and genres than I even knew existed, making it feel like a literary treasure hunt. Every direction I looked revealed another fascinating title or beautifully aged collection. One of my closest friends is a librarian, so I found myself snapping photo after photo to send her because I knew she'd be completely enamored with this place. I didn't order food or drinks during this visit (I rarely drink), but I already know I'll be back. The ambiance alone is worth experiencing. It's the kind of place where you can lose yourself browsing vintage books, settle into a chair with a good read, and simply enjoy the unique energy. From what I could tell, many of the books are also available for purchase, which makes it even more tempting to return. I also noticed that Clio's hosts community events, so I'll definitely be checking their calendar before my next visit. Whether you're a book lover, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates unique spaces with soul, Clio's Bookstore & Bar is well worth a stop. read more

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I heard about Clio's via an instagram reel and I was hooked. My friends and I went to see if it really was a book bar and lo and behold, it WAS! [[HIGHLIGHT]]The ambiance was great.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The space is decent size and the drinks are great.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] My friends and I brought books to read while we had a drink but I did like that the shelves were stocked with books you could purchase. The bartender and host were amazing, I got an old fashion and a charcuterie board and had an amazing conversation about our books. I like that you could come by yourself or with friends, it's very low key and intimate, so this would be a great place for a small after dinner drink spot. read more

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I have waited to write this review, but I'm seeing that other bipoc customers have had similar experiences. I went to Clio's in the first 6 months of them opening and my partner and I have not been back. When I entered the space, I was excited to try something new- but it started when I went to order tea- I know now that the guy at the bar was the owner- I asked what kind of teas they had and he seemed annoyed at my question- like I was wasting his time. I had to ask again but then asked my partner who is white to deal with the rest of the ordering. [[HIGHLIGHT]]We are a queer couple and both felt the vibes were hella off. Lots of white men in the space at that time.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I also remember they didn't used to have any books by people of color. They had a "world" section of books though (lol) and throughout the rest of the place, a bunch of stuff written by white men.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I feel like the stuff they have up now is a performative attempt to not appear what they actually are.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I have not gone back since and don't recommend it read more

My best friend and I had a joint baby shower at Clio's in January. It was such a sweet experience. The setting was beautiful for an intimate experience. And we didn't really need any decorations because the space is already so gorgeous. We had lots of kids at the shower and they had so much fun dancing around and looking at books. The service staff were amazing. They checked in on us regularly, provided everything we asked for, and accommodated all of our needs. We loved having a bar for people to get drinks at, and it took them through the bookstore too. Having the two different spaces was nice for when things were busy. There was lots of comfy seating, and the big long table was perfect for our buffet. We had done a similar party for my husband and brother in laws 40th birthdays and the experience was also seamless. I'm so happy that a space like this in Oakland, where community can come together and have a screenless and fun experience. read more

Clio's Bookstore and Bar - Bookstores Near Me - Oakland, California

I've been here a couple times, once for a community event and once to have drinks with a new friend - both times did not disappoint! [[HIGHLIGHT]]The vibe here is old skool intellectual lounge meets chic cocktail connoisseur.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] (Although I enjoyed a crisp glass of white wine during my second visit.) [[HIGHLIGHT]]The literary selection in each room is vast and interesting.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The seating is comfy.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The staff are welcoming and fun. Moderately priced, Clio's is a must each month if you can swing it. read more

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Books, cocktails and food? Say less. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Clio's is so special bc its laptop free to foster presence with great cocktails and absolutely delicious olives (infused with olive oil and rosemary).[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Books are available for purchase and there are curated seating areas for relaxation.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]If only they had spaces liked this in SF![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Clio's Bookstore and Bar - Mezcal old fashioned, blackberry shrub with gin and a bowl of olives - Bookstores Near Me - Oakland, California

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Such a special establishment to have in Oakland! When we entered the basement bookstore/bar, it felt like we entered another world and time.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's a very peaceful shop, full of interesting, vintage and new books categorized by time periods and interests.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] And what a plus to have a bar that serves really great cocktails (had a delicious negroni for $10), na beverages, and snacks! [[HIGHLIGHT]]There are cute little nooks and tables throughout the cozy store, where you can grab a drink and sit with a good book or with a friend, and chill.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It was also a plus that they didn't blast music (if they were playing any,) which made for a really calm, relaxing vibe.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's not quite a "secret" bar, as many people seem to know about this place. When we got here on a Monday afternoon around 4:30 (they opened at 4pm), the place was already about half full. By 5pm, it was pretty full.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Sometimes they have private or special events, so check their website and plan accordingly! Clio's is definitely worth a visit if you're in the neighborhood. read more

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]Clio's was a vibe. I'd never heard of a bookstore bar, and let's just say they definitely have the right idea.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] This is a bookworm's dream, and the non-alcoholic beverages are not the same price as cocktails/martinis. They do take reservations but since we didn't have any, a speedy little lady came by, took my name down and about seven minutes later we were seated. Prior to being seated I was browsing the books. There's a sign stating every book is on sale, so why not? Past the bar to the back is where there's fiction and other categories. I was told from the bar manager that's the most categorized area. My friend and I ordered two of the NA Shrubs beverages. I chose the Ginger Lime Shrub and she opted for the Blackberry Sage Shrub. Both were delicious. I have a friend who makes shrubs and never having tried it prior to last night, I was thoroughly impressed. So, I ended up ordering shrubs from my friend. Anyway, it's good to try new things and I'd love to come back. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I can tune out anything, so this would be a good reading or study spot for me. It isn't insanely loud, at least to me for a Friday night.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Clio's Bookstore and Bar - Non-Alcoholic Shrubs. - Bookstores Near Me - Oakland, California

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It's a great book store and bar! Good combination of alcohol with intellectualism! Great decorations with books and ornaments. All books are for sale! Amazing atmosphere with responsive service and welcoming host. It's a full bar with all sort of cocktails and drinks. No food just bar snacks / plates. Great for couples and or dates. read more

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This place is a gem in the heart of Oakland. Ambience was amazing, takes you back in time to a quaint neighborhood bookstore where people can sit around and chat. People were either socializing quietly or sipping drinks. Downstairs had dim lighting near the bar but enough to read or relax on a chair or sofa. You can find your own seating, a server will come to take your order or you can order at the bar. The menu is not comprehensive since they have special drinks at the bar, and the bartender is very nice and attentive. The drinks themselves are delicious and medium priced. Notably this is a screen free shop, so no laptops (looking at cellphones is ok). There's a small sign on the door that is easy to miss. Overall a great place to sit and read a book or rewind with friends. read more

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Have been to Clio's a few times now with my book club. We usually get the orange bagged wine which has a lot of pours and isn't too sweet. Got the blackberry shrub today with gin and shared some olives with my friend. The shrub was a bit sweet but refreshing! [[HIGHLIGHT]]The couches and leather seats are super comfy if you can grab one of them when it's not too busy.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Clio's Bookstore and Bar - Blackberry sage shrub - Bookstores Near Me - Oakland, California

Clio's Bookstore and Bar is such a fun and unique spot. I love the vibe with all the books everywhere--it gives the place a cool, cozy feel. It was pretty busy when I went, and I had a group of six, but the staff was really helpful and made sure we got seats together, which I definitely appreciated. The cocktails were great. I tried the Manhattan and the Negroni--both were super well done, really good flavor, and not overpriced. Overall, it's just a great place to hang out by Lake Merritt and unwind. I'd for sure come back. read more

Clio's Bookstore and Bar - Manhattan & Negroni - Bookstores Near Me - Oakland, California

You Need to Experience Clio's in Oakland [[HIGHLIGHT]]Clio's isn't your average bookstore--it's something you have to see to believe. This place is an eclectic gem in Oakland that's turned the entire concept of a bookstore into something almost cinematic.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Here's what makes it special: [[HIGHLIGHT]]Clio's is all about bringing back real conversation and human connection. They run discussions, reading groups, book clubs, and events throughout the week--basically creating a space where ideas and people actually collide in the best way possible.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]And here's the plot twist: when you're at Clio's, they ask you to put your phone and laptop away. I know, I know--but trust me, it's incredible. When was the last time you were somewhere that encouraged you to just be present? It's weirdly liberating.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]They've got over 10,000 new and used books arranged chronologically, so you're literally browsing through the timeline of human thought. It's like a treasure hunt where every section is a different era waiting to be explored.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]If you're in Oakland and tired of the usual routine, do yourself a favor and swing by Clio's. Grab a book, strike up a conversation, and remember what it feels like to connect without a screen between you and the world.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Seriously--go check it out. read more

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]This is an amazing spot for catching up with a friend or a cozy solo date![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The drinks list is pretty small, but the vibes are so academia~ so I'd recommend coming after dinner. We were in the neighborhood for another restaurant and I decided to stop by after. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The tables are pretty small and intimate, so it's not great for large groups - probably best for parties of one or two.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I didn't have any drinks so can't speak to that - this review is primarily for the bookshop portion of the business. As a bookstore, this caters to a specific slice of people: the main room has historical and philosophical classics, whereas the side room has fiction as well as a shelf for California books. By the bar, there's also an alcove for more sensual topics. The selection is pretty interesting - for my interests specifically, they have a lot of books about Chinese Americans or China from the 1900s! They also have quite a few rare first editions or signed copies which are more expensive, if you're into that sort of thing. Book prices can vary, but I found the used fiction to be the best deal (e.g. an Ishiguro hardcover for $7). read more

Came to get a few drinks while the wifey caught up on some books and I got caught up with game i have been playing. Drinks were great, bartender was very friendly and drinks were well balanced. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Vibe in the bar was great loud and a lot of laughs left and right.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Book selection if you are a reader was pretty big. Secret storage with more books ad well.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Clio's Bookstore and Bar - Rum and Ginger beer - Bookstores Near Me - Oakland, California

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]Cute and cozy with plenty of crevices to stow away with your hot toddy and read.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]A decent sized collection for a small book store, everything from fictional romance slop to self-help to historical non-fiction[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. I once spent an evening there reading a strange book whose thesis claimed society is better off having endless distractions in the technological age but I didn't finish it because I got distracted by my phone. I've enjoyed all the drinks I've had there and have spent a few enjoyable evenings there. [[HIGHLIGHT]]A good lil first date spot, or a place to hide away for a spell.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

I love clio's! The people that work there are always so sweet and kind. I haven't been in a while, but I recommend it to anyone that's looking for a nice space to hang out in Oakland. Hope to go again soon! read more

What a cute little bar! Not too many seats but if you're lucky to sit, Clio's a such a vibe. My friend and I sat by the chess table and had a really good time. We played a couple games over a few drinks. A nice little place to hang out. read more

Clio's Bookstore and Bar - Bookstores Near Me - Oakland, California

A nice bar and hangout hidden inside a bookstore. Yes it's a real bookstore with a full bar. They serve wine, and delicious craft drinks. Lots of unique seating areas for a day drink date or to chill with some friends. Even to have a solo quiet evening with a good book. Loved the theme here. Such a good vibe. read more

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House cocktails are $10 and STRONG and we tried all three! Came on a Friday night and it was packed, but we snagged a table with stools in the middle of the room . The crowd looked like coworker groups straight from work, small groups of friends and some first dates. I can imagine it being a nice intimate drinks and reading vibe on other days, but there was just way too many people to really relax on a Friday night. The service was not particularly friendly and my friend got scolded for standing in an area right next to the bar where they had a shelf with the water dispenser, art, mystery wrapped books for sale, and their tablet. It's not clear this section is for just the tablet or staff as it's the only place to stand to get water or look at the things they sold on the shelf? read more

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My friend came here and as an avid reader, she recommended this place for me to check out. I've been to places where it's books/wine, so I definitely wanted to try this place out. I came here around 4:30/5pm on a weekend and while there was very little people there, I didn't like the vibe I was getting. Yes, the interior of this place is cute where they have lots of seating available for those who want to drink some beer and read, but the employees here - no thank you. The bartender looked up at me and gave me a glare which wasn't very welcoming at all. I did not feel like they wanted me there. I would say their book options are very limited. Their fiction is very limited and the cookbooks was no existent. I would say that if you like older literature and history this place is where you should go. You can buy the books that are on the shelves I should mention. However, overall I would not come back again. read more

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May have just unlocked a new favorite spot in Oakland. Clio's combines a couple of my favorite things: bars and books. I visited on Sunday evening and there was live music that started around 8pm. The menu is a bit limited but the atmosphere is what I'd definitely come back for. Inside, they have floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, lined with a wide variety of books from different genres. There's plenty of seating options, complete with quirky little book nooks, cozy couches, and stiff desks/chairs that remind me of high school. Especially with live music, it's a great place to chill and unwind after a long week. Will definitely be back! read more

The book store you never knew you needed! Stumbled in here and was blown away. It was all of my happiest thoughts in one conveniently located spot! Books, cocktails, food, cozy reading nooks! We need more of this!! read more

Went to Clios after work around 5, walked from Broadway from the bus and it was pretty easy to get to. It was pretty quiet and welcoming. I got an IPA and hung out with a friend and after our beer we walked the space to look at all the books! Check it out sometime if you are interested in a drink, some quiet time, some chill hang out time, etc. read more

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]Clio's is not your average bookstore. It's kind of like a cave. You walk down a small spiral stair to enter, and apart from the front window (on the landing by the door) and a couple of small side windows (on the left side of the first room), it's mostly windowless.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's bright enough to read the titles, but the lighting is a bit moody.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]So is the music playing in the background.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] And of course, there's the bar. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The book selection is eclectic.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The other patrons are interesting. I heard snippets of conversations about conscious celibacy and the implosion of a marriage. There was also a tarot reading going on.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]The vibe is kind of hipster, but there was a wide range of ages across the handful of patrons I saw.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]There is plenty of seating for pairs and small groups.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]There is even a selection of games to play.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] If it were in my hood, I might be there all the time. Kicking back with a blackberry sage shrub, I enjoyed my visit. I might go back. There were books to buy, people to watch and something new to do in my beloved Oakland. [[HIGHLIGHT]]If you are wondering why a 4 not a five, it was freezing. I am always cold, so I had on warm clothing. That still didn't cut it. Maybe a small space heater in the back?[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Other than that, Highly Recommended. read more

Clio's Bookstore and Bar - BlackBerry Sage Shrub - Bookstores Near Me - Oakland, California

What a great spot. Came here after work with a friend to enjoy some drinks and snacks. We had wine and a cocktail on their menu with the cheese and charcuterie. It was all delicious. It got a bit busy as the night progressed and they were prepping for a book reading so then the bar got a bit busy and there was a longer wait. Very relaxing spot to catch up with friends and have conversation. Loved having all the books as part as the ambience. read more

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It was a dark and rainy night. Everything was closing early, and we needed to kill some time while waiting for our son to get out of his concert. I knew that a bookstore would be open until late, and I came across Clio's. Little did I know that it would be the bookstore of my dreams where one could enjoy not only books but booze. I tried my first buttered rum in this speakeasy bookshop, my husband enjoyed a whiskey, and both were perfect. Books are organized by authors and genres, many look rare and unique, just like this bookstore. read more

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WHEN: Sat @8:30pm Now this is my kind of bar! To be in a bookshop at night that serves drinks! And the prices are quite reasonable! I got an Old Fashioned for just $10 before tip and tax. Parking may be a bit tricky but we lucked out with one about 2 blocks away The vibe here is nice where it's not loud like at most night bars and lounges so I'm not screaming into someone's ear. They also serve snacks! Would like to come here again! read more

Clio's Bookstore and Bar - Bookstores Near Me - Oakland, California

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So, I was out doing my first Lyft bike rental (loved it!) and, as I've wanted to check this place out, and there's a Lyft rental station right by, today was the day. Upon entering, I immediately felt out of place, as I was dressed for my bike ride (shorts, t-shirt, fit flops). It's got a bit of a pretentious vibe, which actually, isn't a deal breaker for me, because there was so much I liked about it. Had myself a pint of Ghost Town IPA (not sure which one, as it wasn't listed on the menu); sat in a very comfortable couch area and read some of my latest addition of The New Yorker. It's a great place to read and chill. I took advantage of the no cell phone thing. Why not, I can always use a break from it. As I was finishing my beer, I walked around and looked at the book selection, which is a mix of new and used. I'm a prolific reader and I have to say that I loved how they have the books arranged; you could be entertained by that on its own. I'm looking forward to hanging out here on a regular basis. Here's their website: https://www.cliosbooks.com read more

There's a new chill spot in Oakland, and it's Clios. While waiting to be seated at a restaurant down the street, we took the opportunity to explore the Grand Ave. strip and happened upon a place that looked like it was ripped from the streets of London. If you're looking for a spot to sip a cocktail while browsing a random collection of books, this is the perfect place. BB read more

Clio's Bookstore and Bar - Bookstores Near Me - Oakland, California

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Cute casual small bar with lounging area where you can lounge by yourself or meet up with a bunch of friends. Its neither very grungy or luxurious. Some nights there's live music too. Sooo many used books. I felt like i got smarter spending time at this bar (probably not lol). Order at bar. Staff is nice. Not requiring reservations is a plus. I am over bars/lounges requiring a reservation in Oakland. read more

Clio's Bookstore and Bar - Bar with lots of used books for sale - Bookstores Near Me - Oakland, California

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The staff is sweet and they have a large selection of mocktails. They do table orders, meaning a cute bartender comes to your table to take your order! [[HIGHLIGHT]]And the big low table with the couches is a nice nook.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I'm a fan of their inside, which has a large selection of great books (I think I spotted a few classics).[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Cool place to hang out and chill.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Cozy atmosphere and non-pretentious decor. Liked that the book offerings included a good selection of used books. There were cozy nooks to sit but seemed hard to get a space (seemed occupied by overtly long dates). But it served the purpose of a place to read and enjoy a drink. Had an unremarkable glass of wine. read more

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what a vibe! we came in on a friday night at 8PM and there was still a good amount of seating for two people. they had couch seating, bar seating, and we were lucky enough to get a table. seated immediately and decided to go with their house cocktails! but we learned we are not old fashioned and negroni people... the space itself was very cool, great for a date night or girls catch up spot. would come back again! read more

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]I mean, a cool multilevel bookstore-- mostly underground-- with couches and tall tables for two, easy chairs, and nooks and crannies galore.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] They serve drinks and small bites. [[HIGHLIGHT]]There are author events in a back space.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The selection of books is pretty great. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It is a great place to meet a friend or turn up for some quiet time in a great setting.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Clio's Bookstore and Bar - Bookstores Near Me - Oakland, California

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It's a no. The no screen policy applies to phones, not just Laptops and tablets. Very selective in how they approach about their policies. Been several times to get a feel for the business. Was once told that the books were only for sale and not for reading in the building. Saw several others getting books off the shelves and reading them. This place has gentrification written all over it. read more

One of the coolest hidden gems in Oakland. It's like a speakeasy bookstore. Or maybe that's exactly what this is. Someone get me a book on writing. Amazing find! They have a bunch of chairs, chess boards, tons of books....oh and a hidden room You heard me right! Time for the Dr. Who spoilers...if you want to see the hidden room, look for the Hamlet book and pull on it. Voila...hidden room. This place makes online seem...well....not as exciting as holding and reading a real book in a hidden spot with alcoholic drinks! read more

Clio's Bookstore and Bar - Bookstores Near Me - Oakland, California

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I love this place! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Very charming and friendly.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I think it's Sunday nights that they have a live guitarist-- particularly sweet then.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Books + drinks + relaxing atmosphere = My perfect combination for a venue such as this. The bartender was a joy to speak with. I ordered their Manhattan, one of three cocktails listed on their $10 menu. Other than being served premixed (I had to dock a star off for that alone) and with ice by default, I enjoyed it and would order it again (neat next time). I also got a chance to speak with one of the managers about hosting book clubs. Again, it was a friendly experience all around. After they provided the email address for the general manager (for book club reservations), I took my drink and walked around the place, poking at their vast book collection and taking in the warm, peaceful atmosphere they've cultivated. I definitely look forward to returning in the near future - likely with friends in tow! read more

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Love this bar! Small, simple menu and a [[HIGHLIGHT]]great vibe for hanging out with friends or going on a date[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]!!