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Recommended Reviews - The Library Bar
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A lovely retreat from the hustle and bustle of London. I came here on the recommendation of a friend and I'm so glad I did. I was in search for a quiet bar to sit at, unwind from a very long work week, and enjoy an excellent martini. I chose the right spot. Upon entering the immensely lux Lanesborough Hotel, you are greeted and escorted to the bar. The bar is through the dining room, tucked back in a corner but hardly small. There is ample table seating in cozy chairs but I was after my spot at the 3 seat bar (which I did reserve in advance). The room is reminiscent of an old manor library: enveloped in rich mahogany, walls affixed with long-dead aristocrats, thick tomes on shelves, and - most impressively - smatterings of curio cabinets stocked with fine and rare spirits of all types. The menu is full of inventive takes on classic cocktails, and a long list of incredible (and expensive) vintage cognacs. But I was after a martini. I ordered one with their house gin - one made just for them - which boasts lovely notes of woody herbs like thyme and rosemary. It was lovely. It came with a complementary nosh of corn nuts and truffled mixed nuts. When it came time for a second drink, I opted for a No. 3 Gin martini with a side of their pickle selection (for fun) so I could have a few cornichons, cocktail onions, and olives alongside the drink instead of inside. I paired this with a cheese plate which was absolutely gorgeous and just what I needed. The staff was beyond lovely. Matteo, the bartender, was engaging and we nerded out over spirits and cocktail specs. The other staff would often stop by my seat and chit chat. It's like I was a regular though I'd only been there an hour or two. Definitely adding to my go to London list!
impeccable service, right from the very main entrance of the hotel that houses the bar, no issues navigating every step of the way here to imbibe. cozy, old school feel, comfy and away from the crowd. so much so, you can even read a book! complimentary moreish assorted truffle nuts and crispy corn kernels! bottomless from the very time i sat my ass down! how does one say no? they replenished even before I could, anyways! you can even have cocktail cream tea here, will probably have to come back again since i just had a heavy lunch! they had me at truffle martini. so dry and strong, they had to help me along mid drink with a few spray of lemon zest to make it more easy going. am loving it here, sheltering in place, as the summer rain pours. i know i probably can't afford to put myself up at the lanesborough but i surely can afford a few drinks here! ;)
Drinks: best you'll have in your life Food: 4.5 stars Value: 3 stars Ambiance: 5 stars Service: 6 stars Accidentally ended up here when I was very jet lagged and in desperate need of a drink... what a happy accident. This is in the fabulous Lanesborough Hotel, and has absolutely fantastic cocktails and service. I came at the beginning of my trip, and we talked about how good the cocktails here were throughout our travels to 3 more countries. I also ended up coming back at the end of my trip, and got to bring my husband. Everyone I came here with agreed that the service and cocktails are incredible. The first time I came, I sat at the bar, which I highly recommend. The bartenders are inventive and can make any drink you can think of (and will probably make the best you'll have in your life). The food is also very good, but definitely come here for drinks first, food second. Be prepared to pay a higher amount for your drinks, but trust me, they are absolutely worth it! It was fairly crowded on my first visit (a Sunday around 4 pm), so I made a reservation when I came back on a weekend. Turned out the evening weekend reservation wasn't really needed when I came, but it was nice to be sure we'd have a good seat. People watching here is also great - when we came, several celebrities were staying at the hotel and had come to the bar for drinks.
Tucked away inside The Lanesborough hotel is The Library Bar, one of the most beautiful bars I've ever visited. The instant you step in, you'll be steeped in English elegance. The bar has two rooms joined by a small hallway of liquor-filled cabinets. The liquors in these cabinets are literal history, with one particular bottle of Cognac dated 1778. Nope, not a typo: Seventeen Seventy-Eight! Apparently a shot of this goes for $6,500. Also nope, I didn't snag any of that! The staff is absolutely world-class, as are the drinks. I will judge a bar on its Whiskey Sours, and these were sublime to say the least. And the truffle-infused mixed nuts are the perfect accompaniment! The Library Bar is now on my places to visit every time I'm in London.
What an amazing find. I did the truffle Jen martini which was spectacular. They also had this incredible vodka. That's limited addition that is incredibly smooth. And the service by Giuseppe was wonderful. The ambience is amazing as you feel like you're in a very cozy library with high ceilings.
We arrived early for tea and were taken to the Library Bar to wait. This bar was an experience in and of itself! This was the epitome of the elegance a library bar should have! The wood paneling and details were luxurious. I could imagine sitting here and having deep conversations for hours. The Beekeeper Fizz (champagne, honey, rum, and lemon juice) was incredibly refreshing, and the Caribbean Old Fashioned was timeless and perfect. Even the snacks they provided - in an elegant, three-tiered serving contraption - were delicious and great compliments to our drinks. The prices were definitely some of the highest for cocktails I saw in all of London, but you're also paying for the experience.
This is the best place I've found in London for a cigar. Expensive (ie exclusive) but the service is impeccable and the selection of cigars and cocktails is top notch. A very nice high end atmosphere. It certainly Isn't cheap but if you are seeking a place for a premium cigar and great whiskey or other cocktails, this is the place. At least the service matches the expensive prices. However , I always am annoyed to find the whiskey list isn't up to date-- I order a favorite and then get told they are out. To me, that's the difference of third star.
WOW! I must say I am a commoner and stumbled upon this place while looking for a pub and waiting for some friends for the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park. It is super warm and cozy. There are drinks for every taste and budget. From $9 wine to over $1,000 cognac. With each drink purchase you get a three tier snack tray with green olives, homemade corn nuts and garlic roasted nuts. They are so delicious and a nice surprise when you don't expect it. The bartenders are very friendly and accommodating and let you sample your wine and champagne pour before enduring in a full glass. They also fill the glasses to the brim. This is a must visit, but you would probably feel more appropriate in nicer attire versus my jeans, tennishoes and beanie. But all are welcome.
After many long long months the fashionable and well appointed Lanesborough Hotel has reopened fresh faced and better than ever. And I am happy to report that The uber elegant Library Bar is still there, a bit brighter but still retaining what we love about it and that is its comfort and relaxed formality. The Library Bar is a very grown up place. Sophisticated classic cocktails served in a setting of a polished and sumptuous sitting room. Comfortable velvet chairs and sofas around fire places, it always was a well appointed drawing room and thankfully that feeling and layout still remain. What has been freshened up is a bit of a lighter colour scheme of neutral greens and pale golds. Accents of French Empire decor to an English sitting room with bookcases and large oil paintings and portraits. All while having some of the best cocktails and flawless service. This is the best place to sit and have a proper cocktail with a good friend and be able to actually talk and catch up. It is also a good choice to take anyone you might want to impress. But please do not think that with all its upper crust dignity that it is somehow stuffy, as that is simply not the vibe here. And with the new facelift it is more appealing than ever. It is the original lounge chic.
This place is so awesome...its tucked away inside the Lanesborough hotel. They served is some nibbles that were sweaters and the service has been impeccable and it's a spot I would definitely come back to. The food looks so good and irs something if like to try eden I come back. read more
1 year ago
I really enjoyed my food and drinks here but unfortunately, my husband had an unsavory incident with an employee. When he left to go to the restroom and come back an employee put his hand on my husband's chest and tried to keep him from walking in the room and back to our table. The bar was not closed and many were still seated so I can't even say he was trying to ask him not to enter because they were closed. Even still, he could have used his words and instead chose to touch him. This really put a damper on the evening. The ambiance is really nice. I love the space. The decor and lighting make for a great evening experience. Outside of The Library, other Lanesborough employees were extremely friendly, with one even happily taking our photo. read more
A lovely retreat from the hustle and bustle of London. I came here on the recommendation of a friend and I'm so glad I did. I was in search for a quiet bar to sit at, unwind from a very long work week, and enjoy an excellent martini. I chose the right spot. Upon entering the immensely lux Lanesborough Hotel, you are greeted and escorted to the bar. The bar is through the dining room, tucked back in a corner but hardly small. There is ample table seating in cozy chairs but I was after my spot at the 3 seat bar (which I did reserve in advance). The room is reminiscent of an old manor library: enveloped in rich mahogany, walls affixed with long-dead aristocrats, thick tomes on shelves, and - most impressively - smatterings of curio cabinets stocked with fine and rare spirits of all types. The menu is full of inventive takes on classic cocktails, and a long list of incredible (and expensive) vintage cognacs. But I was after a martini. I ordered one with their house gin - one made just for them - which boasts lovely notes of woody herbs like thyme and rosemary. It was lovely. It came with a complementary nosh of corn nuts and truffled mixed nuts. When it came time for a second drink, I opted for a No. 3 Gin martini with a side of their pickle selection (for fun) so I could have a few cornichons, cocktail onions, and olives alongside the drink instead of inside. I paired this with a cheese plate which was absolutely gorgeous and just what I needed. The staff was beyond lovely. Matteo, the bartender, was engaging and we nerded out over spirits and cocktail specs. The other staff would often stop by my seat and chit chat. It's like I was a regular though I'd only been there an hour or two. Definitely adding to my go to London list! read more
The Lanesborough has long been a mecca for the affluent. While you may not be able to afford to stay there, you can certainly afford a drink (or two) in the elegant and wonderful Library Bar. A cocktail oasis in a sea of pubs. The service is amazing too! read more
8 months ago
impeccable service, right from the very main entrance of the hotel that houses the bar, no issues navigating every step of the way here to imbibe. cozy, old school feel, comfy and away from the crowd. so much so, you can even read a book! complimentary moreish assorted truffle nuts and crispy corn kernels! bottomless from the very time i sat my ass down! how does one say no? they replenished even before I could, anyways! you can even have cocktail cream tea here, will probably have to come back again since i just had a heavy lunch! they had me at truffle martini. so dry and strong, they had to help me along mid drink with a few spray of lemon zest to make it more easy going. am loving it here, sheltering in place, as the summer rain pours. i know i probably can't afford to put myself up at the lanesborough but i surely can afford a few drinks here! ;) read more
Drinks: best you'll have in your life Food: 4.5 stars Value: 3 stars Ambiance: 5 stars Service: 6 stars Accidentally ended up here when I was very jet lagged and in desperate need of a drink... what a happy accident. This is in the fabulous Lanesborough Hotel, and has absolutely fantastic cocktails and service. I came at the beginning of my trip, and we talked about how good the cocktails here were throughout our travels to 3 more countries. I also ended up coming back at the end of my trip, and got to bring my husband. Everyone I came here with agreed that the service and cocktails are incredible. The first time I came, I sat at the bar, which I highly recommend. The bartenders are inventive and can make any drink you can think of (and will probably make the best you'll have in your life). The food is also very good, but definitely come here for drinks first, food second. Be prepared to pay a higher amount for your drinks, but trust me, they are absolutely worth it! It was fairly crowded on my first visit (a Sunday around 4 pm), so I made a reservation when I came back on a weekend. Turned out the evening weekend reservation wasn't really needed when I came, but it was nice to be sure we'd have a good seat. People watching here is also great - when we came, several celebrities were staying at the hotel and had come to the bar for drinks. read more
Tucked away inside The Lanesborough hotel is The Library Bar, one of the most beautiful bars I've ever visited. The instant you step in, you'll be steeped in English elegance. The bar has two rooms joined by a small hallway of liquor-filled cabinets. The liquors in these cabinets are literal history, with one particular bottle of Cognac dated 1778. Nope, not a typo: Seventeen Seventy-Eight! Apparently a shot of this goes for $6,500. Also nope, I didn't snag any of that! The staff is absolutely world-class, as are the drinks. I will judge a bar on its Whiskey Sours, and these were sublime to say the least. And the truffle-infused mixed nuts are the perfect accompaniment! The Library Bar is now on my places to visit every time I'm in London. read more
2 years ago
The staff are amazing. The hospitality is second to none. Wish we had more time to make memories, 10/10 will be back again. read more
2 years ago
What an amazing find. I did the truffle Jen martini which was spectacular. They also had this incredible vodka. That's limited addition that is incredibly smooth. And the service by Giuseppe was wonderful. The ambience is amazing as you feel like you're in a very cozy library with high ceilings. read more
2 years ago
While visiting London on a girls trip, we made reservations at the Library Bar for after dinner drinks. We were not disappointed! Friendly staff, banging, cocktails, and a great ambience. It was during the Christmas season so the hotel was beautifully decorated. Highly recommend! read more
1 year ago
4 years ago
We arrived early for tea and were taken to the Library Bar to wait. This bar was an experience in and of itself! This was the epitome of the elegance a library bar should have! The wood paneling and details were luxurious. I could imagine sitting here and having deep conversations for hours. The Beekeeper Fizz (champagne, honey, rum, and lemon juice) was incredibly refreshing, and the Caribbean Old Fashioned was timeless and perfect. Even the snacks they provided - in an elegant, three-tiered serving contraption - were delicious and great compliments to our drinks. The prices were definitely some of the highest for cocktails I saw in all of London, but you're also paying for the experience. read more
2 years ago
This is the best place I've found in London for a cigar. Expensive (ie exclusive) but the service is impeccable and the selection of cigars and cocktails is top notch. A very nice high end atmosphere. It certainly Isn't cheap but if you are seeking a place for a premium cigar and great whiskey or other cocktails, this is the place. At least the service matches the expensive prices. However , I always am annoyed to find the whiskey list isn't up to date-- I order a favorite and then get told they are out. To me, that's the difference of third star. read more
8 years ago
Very nice bar with great service and fabulous whisky collections Such as the Balvenie collections (full range!!!) and Dalmore, and fantastic Macallan Plus a great collections of cognacs read more
WOW! I must say I am a commoner and stumbled upon this place while looking for a pub and waiting for some friends for the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park. It is super warm and cozy. There are drinks for every taste and budget. From $9 wine to over $1,000 cognac. With each drink purchase you get a three tier snack tray with green olives, homemade corn nuts and garlic roasted nuts. They are so delicious and a nice surprise when you don't expect it. The bartenders are very friendly and accommodating and let you sample your wine and champagne pour before enduring in a full glass. They also fill the glasses to the brim. This is a must visit, but you would probably feel more appropriate in nicer attire versus my jeans, tennishoes and beanie. But all are welcome. read more
4 years ago
11 years ago
After many long long months the fashionable and well appointed Lanesborough Hotel has reopened fresh faced and better than ever. And I am happy to report that The uber elegant Library Bar is still there, a bit brighter but still retaining what we love about it and that is its comfort and relaxed formality. The Library Bar is a very grown up place. Sophisticated classic cocktails served in a setting of a polished and sumptuous sitting room. Comfortable velvet chairs and sofas around fire places, it always was a well appointed drawing room and thankfully that feeling and layout still remain. What has been freshened up is a bit of a lighter colour scheme of neutral greens and pale golds. Accents of French Empire decor to an English sitting room with bookcases and large oil paintings and portraits. All while having some of the best cocktails and flawless service. This is the best place to sit and have a proper cocktail with a good friend and be able to actually talk and catch up. It is also a good choice to take anyone you might want to impress. But please do not think that with all its upper crust dignity that it is somehow stuffy, as that is simply not the vibe here. And with the new facelift it is more appealing than ever. It is the original lounge chic. read more
Went here for a nightcap after a delicious birthday dinner at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. What a phenomenal way to end an already really incredible night. You would generally not want to be found in a hotel bar, because it usually leaves much to be desired. Totally not the case with Library Bar. The bar was so cozy and refined and not too busy, even on a Saturday. Every table felt intimate and service was impeccable. Not to mention that there was a live piano player when we were there to maintain the ambiance. We settled into some comfy chairs and a server came over soon after with menus. After having a look, Adam started with the Pacifying Mary (Clamato, red pepper and fresh tomato juice seasoned with soy sauce and wasabi. Choice of frozen Sipsmith Vodka or garlic & horseradish infusion server with a side of crudité - £16). He absolutely loved it. It was a great balance of all of the flavors. He enjoyed it so much, he got a second one! I went with the Caribbean Old Fashioned (blend of aged rums, stirred delicately with brown cane sugar, Maraschino liqueur and Angostura Aromatic bitters - £18). Perfection. Incredibly well made Old Fashioned - one of the best I've ever had. With the drinks came a beautiful tower of three different snacks: truffled mixed nuts, corn nuts and olives. A nice touch and something you don't see often. At these prices, definitely greatly appreciated. Are the drinks cheap? Absolutely not. However, they are expertly made, probably some of the best cocktails I've had in London. There are plenty of places that have £15 cocktails that don't have the ambiance, service and free snacks that the Library Bar has. It's definitely not a weekly spot but, for a special occasion, absolutely. read more
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More info about The Library Bar
The Lanesborough
Lanesborough Place
London SW1X 7TA
United Kingdom
Belgravia
Directions
020 7259 5599
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.lanesborough.com
Hours
Food & Alcohol
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
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Review Highlights - The Library Bar
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The Library Bar - wine_bars - Updated May 2026
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