Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profileThe Library
Dallas, TX · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
The Library pours a serious drink. Its cocktail menu spans 16 handcrafted classics and signatures, from a $17 Old Fashion to a Rosa's Margarita built on Herradura Añejo. The wine list reaches from Cava to Perrier-Jouët, while the spirits back bar covers cognac, tequila, and Japanese whisky. A piano-bar atmosphere and iconic bar accolades round out the draw.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Old Fashion, a reliable $17 classic. For something brighter, the Aviation or A Walk Down Melrose Lane shows range. If you're in a wine mood, the Sauvignon Blanc by Dog Point is a solid pour. Spirits drinkers should consider Don Julio 1942 or a Macallan 25-year pour.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail purists will appreciate the classic lineup and strong pours. Spirits enthusiasts will find a deep back bar worth exploring. Wine drinkers have a compact but diverse list. Those seeking a classy, intimate piano-bar vibe will feel at home.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are ideal, especially when live piano performances create a relaxed, upscale atmosphere. Weeknights may offer a more laid-back experience, as the lounge can get crowded and loud during peak weekend hours.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails run $12–$17, with the Old Fashion at $17. Beers are $7–$9. Wines by the glass start at $12 and climb to $32 for Champagne. Spirits pours range from $13 for Remy Martin VSOP to $250 for Macallan 25-year.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- This is a piano bar with a library-mansion aesthetic, a combination that has earned it recognition from Business Insider, the Wall Street Journal, and Maxim. The beverage program backs up the ambiance with a wide-ranging spirits list and a cocktail menu that balances classics with creative signatures.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
A 16-item menu of handcrafted cocktails balances classics like the Aviation and Negroni with signatures such as A Walk Down Melrose Lane and Rosa's Margarita.
Menu strengths
- — Classic and signature cocktails with balanced construction; Strong pours noted by guests
Standout selections
- — Old Fashion: Maker's Mark, simple syrup, bitters, $17
- — Aviation: Bombay Sapphire, crème de violette, maraschino, lemon
- — Rosa's Margarita: Herradura Añejo, Grand Marnier, Cointreau
Pricing: Cocktails generally $12-$17, with Old Fashion at $17.
Wine
A compact but well-chosen list spans sparkling, white, red, and dessert wines. Regions include Spain, France, California, New Zealand, and Oregon. Prices are fair, with a notable Perrier-Jouët option at $145.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse regions and styles; Reasonable glass prices; Premium bottle options
Standout selections
- — Champagne G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge, $32/$140
- — Sauvignon Blanc Dog Point, Marlborough, $16/$60
Pricing: Glasses from $12 (Cava) to $32 (Champagne); bottles up to $145 (Perrier-Jouët).
Beer
A modest beer list offers domestic and craft options, including Blue Moon, Corona, Deep Ellum IPA, and Shiner Bock. Prices are reasonable, but the selection is unremarkable for a cocktail-focused bar.
Menu strengths
- — Includes local craft (Deep Ellum IPA); Affordable pricing
Standout selections
- — Deep Ellum IPA, $9; Blue Moon, $7
Pricing: Beers $7-$9.
Spirits
A deep spirits list covers cognac, tequila, rum, gin, vodka, scotch, whiskey, bourbon, rye, Canadian, Irish, and Japanese whiskies. Notable pours include Don Julio 1942 and Macallan 25-year, with a wide price range.
Menu strengths
- — Extensive category coverage; Prestige pour options; Clear pricing
Standout selections
- — Macallan 25yr, $250; Don Julio 1942, $25
Pricing: Spirits priced individually, e.g., Remy Martin VSOP $13, Don Julio 1942 $25, Macallan 25yr $250.
How it sits with the food
The menu does not list food, but the cocktail and wine selections suggest pairing possibilities. The Aviation's floral notes might complement light appetizers, while the Negroni's bitterness could stand up to richer fare. The wine list's diversity offers pairing flexibility.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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