Elixir
An intimate bar that dispenses quality cocktail and wine advice, and a curated menu.
Location
53 Courtenay Place, Te Aro, Wellington
Website
The Library
The Library
Calling all introverts, do we have the bar for you (keep reading extroverts, you’ll like it, too.) Step out of the bright lights and fast pace of Courtenay Place, ascend the flight of stairs, push open the door to The Library and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a cosy new world.
The bar is comprised of intimate booths and cosy nooks, surrounded by shelves lined with books (we’re talking real, actual books). Oozing warmth and old-world charm, the bar is dimly lit by table lamps and vintage framed prints adorn the walls.
Dapperly-attired staff greet you at the door. Brought your book along to read while you sip a negroni? No problem. A date for dessert and cocktails? Right this way. Got a crew together for late-night cocktails? They’ve got just the spot for you.
The Library opened in 2009 and has built a reputation for its cocktails and decadent desserts. Award-winning mixologist, Peter Lowry has been with The Library from the beginning and has become a well-known face for Wellingtonians.
Why a library-themed bar? Peter says that it provides constant inspiration, as well as giving an excuse to have books everywhere. “It suits Wellington as Wellingtonians are a little bit geeky and the idea of fun, frivolous cocktails that are inspired by your favourite book about zombies really appeals to them.”
Peter says that his favourite cocktail to make is the one that you’re going to enjoy the most. The Library staff love to talk to their customers to find out what they like and make a bespoke drink that will be just the thing you didn’t know you felt like.
With regular live music, cocktail and dessert specials, and even a claw foot bath hidden around a corner, you’re about to discover your new favourite library.
Looking for more?
On A Good Day — The War on Drugs
1 Dec 2023Anderson Park | $102.85
Egmont St Eatery
Tucked away down a magical little side street between Ghuznee and Dixon is a hidden foodie gem that’s worth seeking out.
Logan Brown
Open the big red doors on Cuba Street to find a Wellington institution of fine-dining.
Mr Go’s
There’s a whole world of flavour on offer at Mr Go’s.
Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne
This pest-proof ‘urban island’ is the closest thing you’ll find to experiencing what New Zealand was like before humans.
Capitol
A local favourite since 2002, Capitol is a vibrant, family-run restaurant with a bistro-style menu.
The Runholder
Encompassing a restaurant, tasting room, cellar door, distillery, and barrel hall space, The Runholder offers an exquisite hospitality experience in Martinborough.
Margot
You’ll feel right at home at this cosy Newtown spot that’s part restaurant, part wine bar.
Ascot
Hot dogs and wine are the combination you didn’t know you needed at this relaxed rooftop bar.
Get a taste of Italy at Scopa
Owned a run by a pair of brothers, this Cuba Street institution serves up wood-fired pizzas and old-school charm.
Apachè
A modern take on popular Northern Vietnamese hawker street food, with a touch of French influence.
Hillside Kitchen
Find seasonal and foraged ingredients and innovation aplenty at Wellington’s leading vegetarian restaurant.
Ortega Fish Shack
Fresh fish, steak fries, and sherry are all on offer at Wellington’s favourite seafood restaurant.
The Ram
Come as you are to this relaxed bar meets pub at the heart of Cuba Street.