Read and Enjoy Drinks: Five of the Best Book Bars in New York City
'13.03.2026'
ForumDaily New York
If you're looking for a solo date and want to find your next book, check out New York City's book bars. They combine literature and drinks. Onlyinyourstate tells about the five best book bars in the city.
It's hard to concentrate on a bookI often take it to a bar or cafe, intending to read a few chapters, and then get distracted by social media. But the rise of book bars in New York City makes this process easier and helps you put down your gadgets for a gripping thriller or novel in a cozy setting.
Since 2019, New York City has seen an increasing number of bookstore-bar hybrids pop up. Thanks to social media, these spaces are growing in popularity. These establishments allow you to feel like the protagonist of your own story and immerse yourself in the atmosphere. books of enjoying drinks in the company of like-minded people.
Book Club Bar, East Village
- Address: 197 E 3rd Street, New York, NY 10009.
Book Club Bar — a cozy book bar in Manhattan's East Village. Opened in November 2019, owners Erin Neary and Nat Esten, locals, created the bar to reflect the unique spirit of the neighborhood. Inside, the atmosphere is reminiscent of a living room, with rustic decor and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves filled with classics and bestsellers. The bar offers craft cocktails, local beers, coffee, and more daily.
On the subject: New York City Libraries Name the Most Popular Books of 2025
Liz's Book Bar, Carroll Gardens
- Address: 315 Smith Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231.
In brooklyn Liz's Book Bar — a must-see for book lovers, coffee lovers, and wine connoisseurs. Founded by author Maura Cheeks in June 2024 in honor of her grandmother, Elizabeth, the bar boasts over 4000 books and hosts a variety of events, including women-only meetups and workshops.
Bibliotheque, Soho
- Address: 54 Mercer Street, New York, NY 10013.
Library — a book bar and café by day, and a wine bar by night. Founded by writer A.J. Jacono in 2022, it's a laptop-friendly space during the day, and an atmospheric wine bar by night with over 3000 drinks and a full dinner menu from local suppliers like Murray's Cheese and A Priori.
Molasses Books, Bushwick
- Address: 770 Hart Street, Brooklyn, NY 11237.
Molasses Books is a combination second-hand bookstore, café, and bar. Founded in 2012, it remains popular among locals and tourists alike. Open until midnight, seven days a week, the bar offers a selection of new, used, and rare books.
The Lit. Bar, Bronx
- Address: 131 Alexander Avenue, Bronx, NY 10454.
The Lit. Bar — the only brick-and-mortar book bar in the Bronx. It was opened in April 2019 by local resident Noelle Santos. The bar stocks hundreds of books across a variety of genres and hosts events for new and seasoned readers. Visitors can enjoy wine and snacks in a cozy atmosphere with bookshelves and colorful plants.
