Literary Themed Bars in LA - Los Angeles.net

Literary themed bars in LA pay tribute to great American authors and the city’s rich history in literature, from Bukowski’s dispatches from Skid Row flophouses and Ellroy’s gritty LA noir to Bradbury’s cosmic trips to the unknown.

In fact, there are three “Library Bars” throughout LA, in addition to a few others named after famous books and authors. These bookshelf-lined bars, with their sophisticated atmosphere reminiscent of sipping Scotch in an old study, promote social interaction and existential musings.

Find more options with the Los Angeles.com Bars Directory.

ALSO SEE: LA Tiki Bar Tour

[Photo courtesy of Catcher and the Rye]

Library Bar at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

Hollywood

From the historic tiled lobby to the recognizable neon sign, the Hollywood Roosevelt is a preservation of the city’s past. On the other side of the lobby’s glass doors is the Library Bar, the hotel’s best kept secret. At the Library Bar, the walls are covered in leather-bound books, the seating is expertly arranged to promote lounging and conversation, and the master mixologists combine organic herbs and homemade liquors into unforgettable alcoholic creations.

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Hemingway's Lounge

Hollywood

Named after one of history’s most famous alcohol-loving writers, Hemingway’s Lounge is decorated as one would expect—with shelf upon shelf of old-fashioned books, vintage typewriters, leather seating and dim lighting. In addition to their curated beer list, the drinks on the cocktail menu are inspired by Hemingway’s books, including The Old Man and the Sea, A Moveable Feast and The Sun Also Rises.

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Library Bar at the Redbury Hotel

Hollywood

Steps away from Hemingway’s Lounge, the Redbury is home to a Library Bar of its own. The vibe here is cozy and elegant, with draped curtains and oversized furniture. In addition to the bookshelves and specialty cocktails, the Library Bar boasts a pool table and an impressive outdoor patio with an incredible view of the city.

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Catcher in the Rye

Toluca Lake

Although the name of this Toluca Lake bar is Catcher in the Rye, the craft cocktails on their “Reading List” draw inspiration from many literary greats. In the relaxed room flanked by a shelf filled with plants, paintings and books, it’s easy to spend the night discussing literature and imbibing specialty creations like the Huckleberry Finn with Plymouth Gin, St. Germaine, blueberry and mint, and the Tequila Mockingbird with Arette Blanco, Triple Sec, jalapeno, and Aperol. Named after one of history’s most famous alcohol-loving writers, Hemingway’s Lounge is decorated as one would expect—with shelf upon shelf of old-fashioned books, vintage typewriters, leather seating and dim lighting. In addition to their curated beer list, the drinks on the cocktail menu are inspired by Hemingway’s books, including The Old Man and the Sea, A Moveable Feast and The Sun Also Rises.

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The Wellesbourne

West LA

Part library, part bar, part game room, The Wellesbourne provides tantalizing libations in a vintage-inspired setting. Reminiscent of a comfortable, yet elegant study, the Wellesbourne is divided into vignettes: a book-lined library, a lounge with leather armchairs surrounding a roaring fireplace in the lounge, and the game room with an antique world map on the wall and even nostalgic games like shuffleboard and foosball.

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Library Bar

Downtown

Down the street from the historic downtown Los Angeles Central Library, the Library Bar is a delicious continuation of bookish culture. Their food menu includes an assortment of sandwiches, burgers and bar bites but the main attraction is their selection of locally brewed beers and lit-inspired cocktails. The First Edition cocktail is made with Wiser’s Rye, China China and Laphroaig Rinse, and the Big Bad Wolf is a fresh and creative concoction of Cabeza Tequila, raspberries, agave and egg white.

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Public School 612

Downtown

Book preferences vary from person to person. Some may enjoy classic novels while others delve strictly into science fiction. Public School 612 caters to the bunch who want to relive their elementary school days but maintain their adult drinking privileges. Craft beers and specialty cocktails are placed atop wide-ruled paper napkins while their composition notebook menu is filled with updated versions of childhood favorites, such as chorizo mac and cheese, bacon cheddar tots and PB and J sliders with blackberry habanero jam.

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Church Key

West Hollywood

More artistically decorated living room than full-out library, Church Key’s shelved walls are stacked with antique books among other interesting knick knacks like candlesticks, photographs and vases. Diners are even expected to read during their meal, as the cutlery is stamped with inspirational sayings like, “Spread the Love,” on the butter knife. A vintage Pan Am cart serves cocktails for a continuation of the retro atmosphere.

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Literati Cafe

West Hollywood

Sometimes even Hemingway took a break from the booze and sought a buzz in caffeinated form. Literati Café provides a creative retreat for writers, readers and coffee drinkers in the heart of the city. Designed with the literary intelligentsia in mind, Literati Café’s walls are covered with pictures of famous authors and book covers to inspire the next great American novel.

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