THE LIBRARY BAR, WHERE
LITERATURE MEETS LIBATIONS
THE LIBRARY BAR, NEW DELHI
From Features Desk
Nestled within the grandeur of The Leela Palace New Delhi,
The Library Bar has become an icon of refined indulgence, an
intimate space where books, art and cocktails converge. True to
its name, the bar draws inspiration from the timeless charm of a
stately library. With rich leather seating, warm wooden interiors
and shelves that echo literary traditions, it offers patrons the
elegance of a bygone era while curating experiences for today’s
discerning connoisseurs
The name Library is more than a metaphor. Every detail from
the décor to the cocktail curation embodies the world of stories.
In its most recent evolution, The Library Bar unveiled the “08
Cocktail Classic Novels” menu, a remarkable concept where
literature and mixology meet. Each cocktail on this menu pays
homage to an iconic novel, seamlessly blending narrative depth
with the craftsmanship of flavours.
Take for instance Around the World in 80 Days, which
celebrates global adventure through a mix of Indian gin, pisco,
cacao, chamomile and strawberry or the evocative Gravity’s
Rainbow, which captures the novel’s complexity in a layered
creation of whiskey,
pineapple, coconut, caramel
and vanilla foam.
The bold
Pablo Picasso channels
artistic rebellion with tequila,
charred pineapple and
spiced brine. Each sip is an
experience, an interplay of
creativity and storytelling in
liquid form.
The innovation extends
beyond the glass. Guests
receive a re-imagined
“issuance card” as though
borrowing a book, drawing
them into a world where the
ritual of reading and drinking
coexist.
Bound in redesigned leather covers and
presented like bookmarks, the menus
themselves become tactile reminders of this
literary journey.
Behind this artistry is a team of highly skilled
mixologists and sommeliers who work
tirelessly to ensure that every cocktail is not
only visually striking but also deeply
balanced in flavour. Their approach combines
locally sourced fruits and herbs with
international techniques ensuring freshness
while maintaining the bar’s global appeal.
This attention to detail and innovative flair
has not gone unnoticed earlier this year, The
Library Bar was recognized at the Times Food
& Nightlife Awards as the Best Cocktail Bar
for a luxurious night out and continues to
feature among the 30 Best Bars in India.
As the evening unfolds, The Library Bar is
more than just a place to drink; it is a
sanctuary of elegance. The ethos of Atithi
Devo Bhava (Guest is God) resonates in every
interaction, ensuring that patrons leave with
more than memories of a good cocktail but
with an experience worth cherishing.
This unique offering is part of the legacy of
The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, a
brand synonymous with Indian luxury. With a
portfolio of award-winning properties across
the country, including New Delhi, Udaipur,
Jaipur, Bengaluru and Kerala, The Leela
celebrates India’s heritage through art,
architecture and personalized service.
Recognized by Travel + Leisure as the World’s
Best Hotel Brand, The Leela continues to
embody grandeur, hospitality and the spirit
of India.
At The Library Bar, this legacy translates into
an evening where literature and libations
intertwine, inviting you to raise a glass not
just to cocktails but to stories, craftsmanship
and timeless Indian luxury.
