Classy spot in the Fairmont for this #19 on the best of North America's '26 bars. 4.5 stars Cocktails: 5 Service: 4 Atmosphere: 5 Cost to worth it rating: 3 Opentableable: yes Return worthiness: yes Highlights: - Love the atmosphere with the paintings and books and multi half levels in one room - Comfortable which was great cause thought might be stuffy - Martini: birdbath is their signature. Was very cold with a touch of orange and came with show of a long pour which was fun. They have their own vodka and gin they use. 5 stars - Menu: sweet/dry, light/spirited quadrants mapped out on the front page Also a sketch drawing of the drink so you can see what type of glass you'll get and colorful pictures on the side to set the mood. - Spicy nuts: good yet dusty but bonus for having hazelnuts. 4 stars Midlights: - Can get on waitlist if full and can text you (note: was full even early afternoon on a Saturday) - Wanted to try more food like the beef sandwich or french onion soup but we were in between meals Lowlights: - Took over 30 min to get our first drink after ordering which was odd at a hotel of this caliber. The next ones did not have the same wait time which was good. read more

Came here for dessert and drinks after dinner. My wife had pinot grigio that she really enjoyed. I had an excellent smoked old fashioned. Vanilla ice cream for my daughter was delicious. The vibe and ambience in this place is outstanding. Super cozy and relaxing. read more

LIBRARY BAR - Lounges Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

I would go back again in a heartbeat. This was one of the best meals and experiences of the year. The shaved prime rib steak with the dipping au jus plus French onion soup as an appetizer... this was phenomenal. Every aspect from the sauce to the baguette to the meat was so tasty. I also recommend getting the garlic aoli for the fries. The drinks were very well done and unique in flavor as well, in particular I tried to the midnight show which was like a raspberry espresso martini. It was fantastic. The ambiance of the place is spectacular as well with a cool, library naturally, vibe. The servers were also great and helped accommodate my date who is gluten free, and her baguette replacement was the best that she'd ever had of a gluten free option. All in all top tier experience start to finish. read more

See all

A super cozy and classy spot tucked inside the Fairmont Hotel, and you even get a view of the iconic clock tower while you're here. I like to come down with friends for cocktails every now and then--servers are always friendly, and the vibe is just perfect. Since it's inside the hotel, you already know the service and atmosphere are top-notch. Whether it's a casual drink, a night out with friends, or a date, this place never disappoints. Definitely recommend! read more

LIBRARY BAR - Clock - Lounges Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Beautiful ambiance, loved the decorations and the vibes. We came for cocktails (we're visiting from the US and my bf saw this bar was #51 on the North America 50 best bars list) and sat at the bar extension. The bartender was still attentive and friendly. I asked for the least spirit-forward between Red Snow, Fifty Year Storm, and The Rose, and he recommended either Red Snow (more popular) or The Rose (nutty but refreshing). He said Fifty Year Storm was also good, but some people found the wasabi off-putting. I ended up getting Red Snow and was really happy with the light flavor and hint of sakura! It didn't taste much like alcohol, which was perfect for me. My bf got Turning Violet, Violet! which we both thought was really good - it even came with gold leaf and nerd clusters! So cute. We both ended up liking our own drinks better (his tasted just a tad too much like whiskey for me). Would definitely recommend for a nice, cozy cocktail or two! read more

LIBRARY BAR - Red Snow - Lounges Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

See all

I usually steer clear of hotel bars because they're all hype and I should've done the same with library bar too. I think they used to be better before but the quality and creativity of the drinks isn't worth the price you pay. The staff are extremely friendly and you will receive fantastic service. However, the drinks are sub par. I got the Dominicana and it was the most basic espresso martini I've had. It sounded great on paper, but it was not worth $24. For the next round I got voodoo child and it was a very interesting and creative drink but I don't think I'd go back to library bar again. My friend and I were both disappointed. My friend didn't enjoy either of her drinks. read more

LIBRARY BAR - Voodoo child - Lounges Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

See all

This cocktail bar inside Fairmont Royal York Hotel has a nice classy ambiance. It feels like stepping into a movie set, with the iconic clock tower. They decorate the lobby, bar area, and the whole main floor with Christmas decorations during the holiday season, including the giant Christmas tree in the lobby (complete with its own lighting ceremony and live music performance). Good selection of drinks and great customer service. Fun facts: The Royal York Hotel opened in 1929. It hosted royalty, heads of state, and golden-age Hollywood legends like Cary Grant and Alfred Hitchcock when they were in town filming or staying upstairs in the hotel. Stepping inside is like time-traveling back decades, with velvet seating, brass accents, and dark, moody lighting. As soon as you walk into the Library Bar, the real centerpiece that grabs your attention is the massive oil portrait above the fireplace. That dignified gentleman watching you sip your drink is George Locke, the very first chief librarian of the Toronto Public Library. I love that a librarian is the patron saint of this bar! The drinks here aren't just cocktails; they're chapters in a story. The current menu, titled "Ink & Alchemy," is actually inspired by Michael Ondaatje's famous novel In the Skin of a Lion. Created by their award-winning mixologist James Grant, the menu is a tribute to the people who built this city: the immigrants, bridge-builders, thieves, and dreamers. You aren't just sipping a martini; you're drinking a liquid homage to Toronto's history. read more

Came here for cocktails on a Saturday around 4pm. There was a wait list, she said it's about 30min. It took us 1 hour to get a table. We got in at 5pm, the place was packed. It took another while before the server came to give us our menu. The menu was really cool they go into detail the story of each cocktail and they have a map to show you whether a cocktail is dry to sweet side, spirit forward or easy drinking. The drink i wanted to order has lactose, the server suggested me to order something else. It took long time for the drinks to arrive. My friend said my drink is not cold enough, probably sitting for too long. my drink did not taste good. it was bitter and unbalanced. It took a while to flag down the server and he said he will add something to it and make it better. Then another long time , my drink was lost, saw someone carrying it around and confused. then my server came back with that same drink, clara's perfume. it tasted like sour vinegar + wine, add some sweetness. it was horrible. We were late for a dinner reservation at this point, the server was angry that I didn't like my drink. he said how is that possible this is the sweetest drink. btw he never asked me what kind of drink i liked. he just went ahead and got me a drink and made me pay for it. I do not recommend this place. unless you have money and time to throw away and just don't care paying for mediocre stuff with bad service. read more

See all

Toronto has some amazingly creative bars, the Library bar is NOT creative nor are the house drinks tasty. While this bar is cute,m and convenient if in the hotel, it's very noisy and the cocktail menu is boring. The exact same menu is used for the clock lobby bar. I suggest going there. I went twice to the clock lobby bar because the tables and atmosphere are so much more relaxing, even if they serve the same drinks dull library bar menu. Cocktails are $24-$28 each and not with the cost. Smallish servings, partly due to the types of glasses used, and not strong. As an American I want to know there's booze in the drink! My guess is no matter which cocktail, 1.5 oz of alcohol in it. That is lame even if $28 Canadian! While I have it three stars, I'm not returning. read more

This place was packed on Saturday night. We were staying at the Fairmont hotel and ad to wait over an hour to get in. The space is small and quaint, but the drink menu is quite large. I had the strawberry fields, which was a nice sweet fruity drink. My fiancé had the classic martini, and it was a nice quality martini served with olives and a pickled onion. Our server was excellent. Glad we were able to get in and try it out! read more

LIBRARY BAR - Lounges Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Stopped in during lunch hour for a cocktail. Went straight to the bar and grabbed the last bar stool. Service was great. Cocktail menu is weird. It's not straight forward- instead it reads like a book. I was not prepared for that. I flipped the pages til I found the Best Sellers page. I went with the "Twist of Fate". It's a beautiful cocktail. Refreshing, not too sweet but just right. Drink was made quickly. I finished it in about thirty minutes, as I had to go to a meeting, and had no trouble closing my tab out. The restaurant is super plush and upscale. The menu looked tasty but I had already eaten. It's just inside and to the left, of the Fairmont hotel. Bathrooms are right outside. Clean. Seems that they were taking reservations for lunch on a Saturday. Guess it gets busy. So call ahead to be sure you can get a table. read more

LIBRARY BAR - TWIST OF FATE Hendrick's Gin, Lillet Blanc, Gentian, Raspberry, Verjus, Prosecco Rosé $20 - Lounges Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Been here twice now- once with a friend and once by myself while waiting for the train. Both times the staff were friendly and very accommodating. I got two drinks from here- The classic martini: smooth, cooling, and savoury if you add the pickled onion The southern reach: light and refreshing. Comes with an "electric daisy" which numbs your tongue- it's a fun experience but I feel like it took away from the actual flavour of the drink. Overall great place for a drink- a bit of a splurge but well worth it! read more

LIBRARY BAR - Southern Reach Cocktail - Lounges Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Dude! Okay, now that I've got that out of the way, what a fantastic place. The restaurant is gorgeous and the service was seriously top notch. Our server was so darned awesome at his job. I got the Bay Street sandwich and honestly, I wish I lived closer to Toronto because I'd come back weekly for that darned thing! Tender, flavorful prime rib shaved on a delicious baguette with a horseradish aioli that sings with bite and garlicky joy. My wife got the LB Burger and commented on how well it was seasoned and cooked. As Americans the idea of a burger being cooked medium is usually an issue, but not here. It's still super juicy and delicious. Dessert was a must because the entrees were so good. We went with the bourbon crème brûlée and it was another standout dish. So velvety and delicious. For cocktails, we found the menu to be a bit much at first, because they take time to have little literary inspirations for each. It makes for a fun read once you get the hang of how it's set up. I had The Rose and it is so well done. Bright, refreshing and so easy to drink. My wife got a couple cocktails and also enjoyed them. It was a delightful experience and absolutely worth the time and money. We loved it! read more

LIBRARY BAR - Bourbon crème brûlée. Need I say more?! - Lounges Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

See all

The ambiance is great, but it also reminds me a lil bit of an airport lounge. I haven't tried the food, but the drinks are pretty good. It's a little tough to get the staff's attention but overall a nice place! read more

A cool speakeasy bar in the ground level of the fairmont hotel. They take reservations and it can be busy. Cocktails are fancy, but also very expensive. Tables are very on top of each other which makes it hard to have a conversation. read more

Best service, best cocktails, stellar ambiance. If you want to while away and afternoon or evening in conversation over drinks, there's no better place. read more

Friday night. Came here for after-dinner dessert cocktails. It was around 8pm, and this place was full. Left a phone number at the front, and got a table in 20 mins. While waiting, we enjoyed Fairmont Hotel's elegant hotel lounge, seated in a comfortable chair. Here are our drinks for the night: #DIVINE COMEDY (Dillon's Melon Gin, Melon, Amaro Lucano, Habanero, Eucalyptus, Lime, Prosciutto) $22 This is a drink version of "Prosciutto e Melone". Exotic, fruity, fresh, smoky, and boozy! # LAST OF US (Don Julio Añejo Tequila, Hennessy VS Cognac, Torres 10 Year Brandy, Verjus, Candy Cap Mushrooms, Extra Dry Prosecco, Morels, Maple) $20 Perfect balance of bitter, sweet and smoky. Strong! I am impressed by their perfecting the use of ice. Kept the drinks cool, and never too diluted. I admitted that I had a misconception that dilution is a bad thing, but they proved that it is not the case, and it is a perfectly controlled technique / art! One step out of Union Station. Great bar for a person like me who occasionally uses GO train for commuting. Had a great Friday night!!! read more

LIBRARY BAR - Lounges Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Gorgeous bar located inside the Fairmont. We stopped by for a late lunch drink and apps. It's a classy, beautiful space, and seems family friendly, at least during the daytime. The cocktail menu is extensive and has some interesting options. We both enjoyed our drinks as well as our app and dessert. The service was unobtrusive and quiet. It was nice spending a little time here feeling fancy! Next time I'm in town, I might come back for evening cocktails. read more

See all

Amazing drinks!!! CJ provided amazing service to our table. I loved the Dominicana, which was like an espresso martini, but better. One of my favorite drinks of all time. Swanky and fancy decor. Located on the first floor of the Fairmont Royal York hotel, this place is a real treat. My friend ordered the Black Lodge, which gets lit on fire and looks very cool. The menu is very creative and I wish I could try every drink. I highly recommend coming here. You won't regret it. read more

See all

Cozy, Classy, and Family-Friendly -- A Hidden Gem in Downtown Toronto! We stumbled across Library Bar during a quick spring break getaway with the family, and it turned out to be one of our favorite stops of the trip. After a fun day exploring the downtown area and aquarium, we were having trouble finding a place to eat--and this little spot came through in a big way. I called ahead on a whim, and the staff couldn't have been more welcoming. Even without a reservation, they kindly held a table for us while we walked over (about 12 minutes away). That level of service already had us impressed before we even arrived. Tucked into the lobby of the Fairmont hotel, Library Bar felt like a serene little escape from the city buzz. We were seated at a cozy, semi-private table with couches and chairs--perfect for our crew to sprawl out and recharge. It felt like our own little living room in the heart of downtown. The food? Excellent. We ordered a round of burgers, and everyone devoured them--juicy, flavorful, and clearly made with care. The staff was incredibly courteous, friendly, and went out of their way to make sure we were comfortable and had everything we needed. If you're in Toronto and want a calm, welcoming spot with great food and even better service, Library Bar is a must. We left full, happy, and already talking about coming back. read more

REALLY cool cocktail bar. They had a lot of drinks on the menu that were very thoughtfully created. The bartender went through all ingredients and how the flavors pair together. It was a cool experience, would recommend! read more

Atmosphere - 9 Music - 9 Service - 8 People Watching - 7 Cocktails - 0 Cocktails looked incredible and tasted like cough syrup. read more

See all

This bar is giving luxurious speakeasy vibes. The decor is beautiful, the couches/seating is super comfy, the drinks are equally as beautiful and well crafted. I want to give a shoutout to the bartender who was able to make me a decaf espresso martini (which is very rare to find). Both of our cocktails were really good and we loved the atmosphere! We're here a couple of days so we will definitely be back. read more

See all

After having drink at the clockwork bar that's also located in the Fairmont Royal York, some friends and I decided to check out the Library Bar as well. It was a Saturday night so there was a bit of a wait to get in, about 20 mins or so. The interior is done so well. It looks like something straight out of a movie with even the smallest details accounted for. We opted to order drinks and a couple appetizers. Our sever was amazing, super friendly and answered any questions we had. The drinks and food however were just okay. I ordered the twist of fate cocktail and was unimpressed with the presentation and taste. It just seemed like it was lacking more pizzazz. The warm crab dip and deviled eggs also gave me the same vibe. More flavor and seasoning were needed. Overall it was still a decent experience, but I don't think I'd return. read more

See all

Library Bar is an amazing, cozy Bar at Fairmont Royal York Hotel. It offers variety of cocktails including specially designed festive varieties. it is particularly advisable to go there around holidays when the hotel itself is lavishly decorated. They served food as well, but we went for drinks and only ordered olives. I think atmosphere is what people go there for, and it is marvellous place. Service is very courteous, everyone feels like an honoured guest. read more

See all

One of the best bars I've visited in my global travels. Located in the historic Fairmont Royal York, the Library Bar has a great 'old school' vibe with fun and modern touches. The service was amazing, I was lucky to get a seat at the bar and be served by Riley, who is both a student and a master at his craft. His passion for mixology is obvious, they make their own syrups and have an assortment of interesting bitters, and most importantly, Riley spent time asking about my taste preferences before recommending a mix of liquors and delivering a spectacular Old Fashioned! read more

See all

Incredible vibe, outstanding food, and fantastic service from a very friendly wait staff! I loved my Willy Wonka-inspired drink! read more

LIBRARY BAR - Violet, You're Turning Violet - Lounges Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

This was our fancy place for the night ! We did street food all day and this definitely took us up a notch. Loved the old feel of the bar in the Fairmont York hotel. Definitely a nice meet your people for drinks place. We got a nice spot at the bar and the service was amazing from the moment we sat down. They have a very extensive drinks menu. Wine and cocktails especially. Be warned some of these cocktails are high $$$$!. They do carry some too shelf stuff though. I had a a nice Gin and tonic . Classic with a nice grapefruit tonic . They make all their drinks look amazing and have fabulous glassware. My friend had a nice Prosecco. We ordered a app off their small plates menu. The by far best mushroom toast, which sounds so basic but this was so good! Nice thick sourdough slice with truffle butter and the mushrooms were cooked perfectly with nice seasoning and more truffle and Parmesan! And nice spicy arugula salad . It was such a palate pleaser. Perfect with my drink. I gotta say I do love the truffle butter. The desert we tried was called the storyteller, all desserts library themed ! A beautiful chocolate, meringue, mousse like cake and crunchy chocolate nibs creation. So hard to describe as there was so much going on. But truly indulgent! The chocolate was truly rich. I also had their espresso martini which was made so pretty too. Perfect balance of espresso and vodka, and a touch of cream. Perfect. It's a fun experience to go places like these. Especially at the bar. Our bartender was so much fun too. Looking for a fancy drink place . The library bar is the place! read more

See all

Open your wallet and enjoy some exceptionally well crafted cocktails at Toronto's most legendary hotel bar. A stroll through the Royal York sets the tone for the classy, refined experience you're about to have at this stylish, cozy and comfortable cocktail lounge. The newly renovated space will impress you instantly with its stunning Art Deco decor and furnishings. Honestly, I wish some of the patrons were as well dressed as the space itself :) I enjoyed "The Classic" Birdbath Martini ($28), made with a choice of vodka or gin (I went with gin) and "house vermouth blend." This is their version of a dirty martini, in that they add a few ingredients to subtly enhance the drink, specifically a little lemon oil and a few dashes of house-made orange bitters. Shaken and poured tableside, it was a very enjoyable martini indeed. I noticed some of their other cocktails are served with tableside flare, like my husband's Sacred Beast (for those who like very smoky drinks) which had the server light up a handful of what looked like brillo, which glowed like embers and slightly warmed the glass. A guy sitting next to us ordered a cool-looking cocktail that was somehow illuminated neon green. A fun experience overall! PS the French fries looked thick and proper. Didn't order them, but I'd definitely munch on those next time. read more

I wanted a swanky cocktail lounge and this was definitely the place for that. Cocktails are pricey--most $25-30 but the servers were friendly, the seating comfortable and the ambience was very special. Would go again. read more

Great food and great service! Great martini! Delicious burgers. Fresh oysters ! All in a more relaxed laid back setting !

Read about this in the Top 100 cocktail bars to visit. Great atmosphere and great service. They did not disappoint! They lived up to allan the hype. Food was delicious and we wended up here 3 nights in a row and Chris our server was superb. Everyone was attentive and friendly and was a warm atmosphere. Cocktails were pricey but your in a five star hotel and getting 5 star service so totally understandable. Will come here again when I am in downtown Toronto again. read more

We came here for a drink for New Years Eve. My drink Carry Me Away was just perfect. My husband got a egg white drink which he was completely crazy about. Not only are the drinks perfect but also the ambiance. They are moderately priced for a classy place like this. A place like this in NYC would've costed much more. $60 for two drinks including tip and tax is not bad at all. Overall, this is a special occasion bar and glad we came here for close out a great year! read more

See all

Always a fancy treat. My colleague was in town staying at the Fairmount and had complimentary drinks. Library bar is tucked away in the corner of the Fairmont Hotel and the decor of the bar is very elegant and sophisticated. We asked the server to surprise us with our drinks and he came out with a classic Manhattan for my colleague and a mojito for myself. I've only been here for drinks in the past but my colleague was raving about the burger. I ordered the prime rib sandwich and when it arrives, it was covered with a delicious gravy with crispy onions on a crunchy bread with some mayo spread on the top bun. The service is always amazing. The crowd is normally an older crowd and typically hotel guest stopping by for a quick drink or bite. Definitely check this bar out if your looking for a good cocktail read more

See all

Came here on a weeknight as a walk in. They only had space at the bar, but I was just happy to make it in, as it was packed. The ambiance is refined, yet homey. The drink menu is quite extensive, organized by sections like "Fantasy" and "Mystery". I opted for the "Once Upon a Time", which was innovative and creative. It was on the lighter side and the flavors were well-balanced. Our bartender was knowledgeable and friendly. Overall a great experience! read more

LIBRARY BAR - Once upon a time - Lounges Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

See all

My boyfriend and I recently stayed at the Fairmont Royal York, and we came here two nights out of three. The atmosphere is absolutely top notch, with cozy velvet couches and stacks of books on the shelves. I felt like I wanted to live here! We tried multiple cocktails, but most importantly the birdcage martini. We have had many martinis in our lives, but we both immediately declared this the best we'd ever had. Our waiter was a seasoned professional and told us a few stories about the martini, including background on the various liquors and how it came to be, which really added to the whole experience. Again, I can't emphasize enough that this is the best martini I've ever had. So smooth and balanced. The little glass of olives was the perfect compliment and my boyfriend and I both loved taking a sip of our martini and then biting into a tiny piece of olive. So, so yummy. Even if you're not staying at the hotel, I highly recommend this bar the next time you're in Toronto. read more

See all

Regal to-be-seen cocktail bar. The atmosphere/ambience is happening ritzy spot with well to do clientele. Comfy with close seating but high end furniture. Servers and hosts all dressed business to black tie. Service was very good. The hosts let us know about a wait since we didn't have a prior reservation around 5:30pm mid-week. They said it'd take 20 minutes but it only took 5! Our waitress was attentive and had okay suggestions. She over recommended some drinks on the menu based on what we had been ordering but they somewhat missed our flavor preferences (one was too sweet despite my companion saying that didn't like sweet, for example). Drinks were all well crafted. We ordered some martinis, manhattans, and old fashioned and they were done well. I was glad to see the clear old fashioned without muddling and extra fruit. It was very well done. The take on an old fashioned on the menu is to be avoided--the vermouth was the best part. Not a good sign. The secretariat was a nice cocktail if you enjoy Fernet. We were hoping the selection of whiskeys would be larger considering the vibe and price point. It was a much clear liquor forward specialty cocktail section. Price is a lot. That shouldn't be surprising by the decor and dress here. The mixologists know what they're doing and service is good. Special occasion/business trip visits seem about right. read more

WOW sooooo osooooo0oooooo awaesome if you want to see and be seen by all the famous party people and famous actors but wow the food and dribnks are incredible !!!!!! thank youuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu!!! Best waitresses evaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!! read more

The bar was located in a hotel and was so pretty. The espresso martini I ordered was honestly the best espresso martini I've ever had. The prices were higher end as it was a bit more of a formal environment. read more

LIBRARY BAR - Lounges Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

See all

I loved the old environment, with the cozy chairs and the polished wood bar to one side. We discovered a new tequila while trying out their various cocktails, which we have since bought to tie us over during the renovations. Looking forward to what the new space and environment will have to offer! read more

LIBRARY BAR - Tequila old fashioned! - Lounges Near Me - Toronto, Ontario