This is truly an amazing place in an unlikely setting. A little difficult to find, you have to walk in the lobby of the Roosevelt and off to the left there is a dark, unmarked door. It's small, dimly lit, and cozy with all older, classic looking leather furniture. The bar top is a cornucopia of fresh, seasonal produce that Matt Biancaniello, the head bartender, personally purchases from local farmers markets several times per week to make his incredible cocktails. There is no formal menu, but rather you tell them what you like (bourbon, vodka, scotch, rum, fruitiness, sour, bitter, spicy, etc...). And almost anything is possible. Everything is fresh, they make all their mixers, juices, infusions, foams, etc.. from scratch. I highly recommend you seek this place out, park yourself at the bar, and ask them, "What's good today?" They've won a ton of awards, been featured in several magazines, including Imbibe, LA Times, and will be featured in the upcoming issue of Buon Appetite magazine. However, they still remain super humble, approachable, and passionate about making fresh, flavorful, well-balanced, creative cocktails tailored to fit any taste. Quite amazing. read more

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Been here a couple of times and still not sure what the hype is all about. The cocktails were fine, nothing amazing, the clientele is a mix of tourists (in shorts and sneakers), out of the area folks (wanting desperately to fit in), hipsters (too cool to care) and locals. Sure I like that its in an old hotel and the furniture is cool, but so what? read more

I came here with a few girls last Friday night for a celebrations. I had heard so many good things about Library Bar and had to check it out. My mixologist, I think he would definitely fall under this classification, he was more a chef than a line dancing whiskey pourer (though he would probably make a good line dancer. See pics.) was fantastic. I had a strawberry, vodka, Serrano pepper and basil drink to start with (and yes, I am totally over simplifying this, there were actually about 10 ingredients per drink) and my friend had a raspberry and sage cocktail with vodka. Both were fabulous. The best drink of the night, though, was Greg DeBolt's "Yellow Bell"; highly alcoholic with the sultry sweetness of yellow bell peppers. I've never had anything like it and it made a great entree. What really sets this place apart from other bars is the use of fresh local ingredients. The strawberries were crushed and pushed through a strainer to make strawberry juice and I had a pretty good conversation with my bartender about local farmers markets; he really knows what he's talking about. The drinks are pricey but the quality cant be beat. I will be back to this bar. read more

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Wow! I have been wanting to check this place out since my frd's bday last year. We ended up going to the Library Bar in dtla as we somehow thought the two were related. No, it's not, this library bar is different - it is unlike any other bar in the world!! First, you won't see a sign, there is not a single sign inside the hotel that says "Library Bar". You just have to find your way to the secret wooden door before entering this place that will blow your mind away forever. We were lucky enough to grab 2 seats by the bar as a couple were just leaving. We were greeted by our friendly mixologist Danvy. She asked us our preferences of what to put in the drinks. I told her I would like a lot of berries and some herbs in my drink. My friend, on the other hand, just simply wanted something with chocolate in it. Then she started to work the magic, one great thing about sitting by the bar is that I can just watch Danvy make drinks all night, which was a marvelous experience. I was also amazed by the type of ingredients they have, they all looked so fresh just like it came straight out of a farm! Wow! I spotted at least 8-10 types of herbs, loads of grapes, tomatoes, peppers, ginger and a mix of other fruits.. oh, and a bunch of spices. After a few minutes, our drinks are ready! That was another Wow moment, these 2 drinks, made according to our preferences, were a piece of ART! My "berry drink", was made mostly out of berries, basil and rum. It was so refreshing, almost non-sweetened which I love as I really don't need a sugar rush! And it was topped with 3 juicy blackberries! My friend's drink, was made out of 2 types of chocolate liqueur with a touch of raspberries (I am sure we have missed out a few others that master Danvy has mentioned). Sprinkled with raw chocolate and topped with raspberries! They were incredible! All drinks here are served on a rock. That's right, not rocks but ONE BIG ROCK! Drinks are about $20 each with tips (another Wow!), but you are getting the most EXPERIMENTAL and ARTISTIC drinks on your request! I personally don't like the Roosevelt hotel much, but I will come here for a cocktail treat once in while only in the one and only Library Bar. This place is small and people tend to come and go quickly after a drink or two. Afterall, there are at least 2-3 other bars (where you can order regular drinks) to grab drinks in the hotel. (No need to even mention parking here as we all know it sucks, costs $17.50 in the structure right across. Could have bought another drink!!!) read more

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Cool little hidden gem inside the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. Located just off of the main lobby, it's literally like someones personal reading room (you know the kind, filled with many leather bound books smelling of rich Mahogany... that kinda place) except dark, devious, and a little scary. I dig it. I was on a Mezcal kick so I ordered a Mezcal infused cocktail... or was it an Old Fashioned? Hmmm, I honestly just gapped on this, see what happens kids when you drink all night and try to remember your night. I do remember it was strong and took some mind over matter to get down so could have been a little more balanced and less alcohol forward. But overall enjoyable. Pricing wise it was steep 3 cocktails came at $50 premium so says my credit card statement. Ouch! One cool factor is they were filming a movie/TV show in the room next to us so I felt like I was sipping drinks in a green room haha. I'd stop here again read more

OHH MY! These drinks were super delicious and unique. The drinks are 5-star worthly, however, the prices are incredibly high (even for Hollywood). The bartender does make everything from scratch, meaning there's no recipe for her drinks. She asks you a couple of questions: what kind of liquor do you prefer; sweet or spicy etc. I told her I loved spicy drinks and she said she had the perfect drink for me. Boy, it was definitely perfect. It was a passionfruit mango cocktail with tequila and jalapenos and some other ingredients. The flavor wasn't overly sweet, but it was refreshing with a zing of heat as it flows down your throat. There was just the right amount of tequila too. I would love to come back here to hang out after a nice dinner in Hollywood, but it would have to be for a special occasion due to the price. Huge shout out to our bartender and the other server (I swear he's an actor, but I can figure out which movie I've seen him in...or maybe I'm wrong haha). read more

Library Bar - So delicious - spicy - Lounges Near Me - Hollywood, California

Great cocktails with fresh ingredients makes this bar an amazing stop before heading out for the night. The mixologists behind the bar will make you a drink to your taste and they've never stirred me wrong. Plus it's at one of my favorite hotels in LA. Why knock off a star you ask? Well, the drinks are roughly $20 per and come with a huge ice cube. These drinks are so good! I want more dammit! ;) read more

Library Bar - So fresh, so clean - Lounges Near Me - Hollywood, California

Amazing experience! Coolest bartender I've ever met. He made us some of the most delicious and unique drinks we've ever had. It was a pretty slow Tuesday night so I went up to the bar to watch the bartenders work and learn a thing or 2. After we chatted for a bit, Alex shared some of his amazing recipes with me and even wrote them down for me. I spent the next hour picking his brain and learning a ton about mixology. Alex is a very talented mixologist and a great bartender. Answered all my questions and more. He actually grows some of the hard to find ingredients himself and brings them in. Amazing! Now that's passion for the art. Very glad I came out tonight. Highly recommend this place. The ambiance is great! Looks like a great place to take a girl if you want to impress her. The drinks are all custom made to order, there is no menu, just explain what you like, what flavors you want, sweet/spicy/fruity/sour/etc? Even what mood you're in if you want. Lol. And they'll make a custom drink just for you. Pretty awesome. Definitely not cheap... But awesome! read more

Library Bar - Ordered: "Something sweet and pretty" - Lounges Near Me - Hollywood, California

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Awesome cocktails! I love places that make drinks with real fruit! The bar had fresh and beautiful strawberries, black berries, raspberries, blood oranges, oranges, basil, mint, etc. You would just walk up to the bartender and tell him what fruit and spirit you want and he'll create something for you. Drinks are a bit pricey tho. They run about $17ish? The Library Bar is just a lil cozy place for you and a few friends to hang out on a chill evening and catch up. I'd suggest parking at the Hollywood and Highland structure across the street, buy a soda, and get the parking validation. $2 + soda for 4 hours. read more

Okay, I've only been here once but it left such an impression on me that it has to get FIVE STARS. I only came across it because I was waiting to eat at 25 degrees and the waitress suggested my colleague and I get a drink there. It's hidden, it's small and it's dark and it is FAAAAAAAAAABULOUS. Of course it didn't hurt that one of the bartenders was SUPER DUPER HOT. I noticed the bartender but what really caught my attention was the glass after glass after glass that lined the bartop filled with a variety of fruit. really? what was that yellow prickly thing? and are those fresh berries? what could they be making here? actually, what is it they aren't making? this place is CHILL at least when i went, so come here with a few friends to unwind or to start your evening off with a place that you can actually have a conversation. the bartender was SO kind. we were enthralled with their offerings and while we were waiting to figure out what to order he made us a specialty fruit shot. awesome! he ended up making me some fruity martini and of course, as expected, great. note, my visit was on a wednesday and yes the uber talented Matt Biancaniello was the one behind the bar. check out little note about him on eater la http://la.eater.com/archives/2010/12/08/matt_biancaniellos_savory_elixirs_bruce_beresfordredman_trial_continues.php read more

So to start the review, I want to say I'm not really big into the LA scene so my judgment might be skewed. The actual library bar was a tad small and very very loud! It was not what I expected. It was impossible to hear anyone talk even when they were shouting in my ear. There were maybe 4 tables altogether and almost always occupied. Drinks were expensive but I guess appropriate for LA bars and lounges. We ordered the Pineapple Express and the Alexandra and it was about 15 bucks/a drink. But they are strong! There were a lot of beautiful people there though. I'm thinking a lot of up and coming actors and actresses :) Everyone seem to dress to impress. It was fun to watch! read more

This place is very quiet, music is not enjoyable. We ordered a Mule, Champagne, and an old fashion, very different alcohols, but what's the same is all three were really bad. My friends and I didn't think the bartender knew how to make drinks, yes hard to believe in a bar in Hollywood. Note that there is another bar called Library Bar about a mile from here, please watch your way to not come here if you were looking for the other one. We saw really good reviews about the other one and made a mistake in coming to this one, and yes it was indeed a mistake. read more

If you're looking where to spend fun night look no further. That's the place with amazingly cool gorgeous cocktails funny bartenders and even dancers like me. I don't care I can even dance in McDonald's just give me old fashioned and couple mcnuggets. If you looking to spend your night calmly don't bother that place go home, drink green tea and don't waste people's time. read more

Love this bar! We snagged seats at the bar, and the bartender was really great! Loved the fact they have sofas or you can sit in the bar area. Had a stiff and yummy Vodka/Tonic! Nibbled on this soft mozeralla with peso, and really crusty toasted bread! It was really good and recommened by the bartender. My friend had a passion fruit bellini that really looked good. Overall not bad and great place to grab a drink well we waited for an event to start! read more

If you have the class to appreciate very fresh, nature infused cocktails and beautiful mixology, the Library Bar is the place for you! I was absolutely amazed at not only how wonderfully the bartenders, Chris and Greg, used the seasonal fresh produce to make a one-of-a-kind delicious cocktail, but also with their knowledge of all the unique cocktail recipes. If you are simply looking for cheap beer and well drinks, this is not the place for you. In fact the bar doesn't even carry most beers and any "well" liquors nor do they have a menu, so come in and be open minded. I was thoroughly impressed with the most beautifully crafted cocktails I have ever consumed and will definitely be visiting again very soon! read more

Library Bar - Lounges Near Me - Hollywood, California

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This place is a breath of fresh air. Go. Tell them your drink preference(s), let them do their thing, and proceed to enjoy one of the best cocktails you've ever consumed. read more

Library Bar - This is something that originated in France in the 1500s. That's all I remember him telling me. Delicious. - Lounges Near Me - Hollywood, California

So, I remember coming here after a recommendation, and merely finding it was an adventure itself. Glad we found it, but there were still issues -- we never got the exact drinks we ordered at the bar. Apparently, there is no official drink menu, while the bartenders try to acquiesce to your demands. I requested a Godfather drink, based around the amaretto. What I received was much fruitier and unrequested, though was still decent. I think anything my date and I ordered ended up being much fruitier than we intended -- I wish exact orders were possible at this place. Still good, but from what I remember, if I ordered X drink, I'd not like an unexpected twist. read more

Library Bar - Lounges Near Me - Hollywood, California

good hideout. The Library Bar at the Hollywood Roosevelt is a nice little pub just off the main lobby. Inside is a small bar, which is also serving patrons sitting out in the main lobby. There are a couple long sofas in the bar, and a couple chairs. It's mellow and intimate, and a good place to escape with a friend or date. The hotel also houses restaurants (like Dakota) and a diner/bar (25 degrees) and the famous pool bar; but I like the Library. read more

Library Bar - Lounges Near Me - Hollywood, California

Roxy, I agree with you that Matt is GENIUS! Matt really treats the glass as a chef would his plate. He cares a lot about the interplay of tastes and textures, flavor profiles and visual presentation, as any chef worth his salt would. And of course uses the freshest ingredients (his bar really does look like a mini farmer's market!) He also puts a lot of thought into naming his creations, and will use culinary terms like 'amuse bouche' to describe some of his drinks. Sparked by Matt's culinary approach to cocktails, on my visit last wek I decided to play a quick game inspired by Iron Chef with him. What three things would he make if I were to give him a secret ingredient of, say, kumquat? It took him all of a split second to come up with three amazing drink ideas - I've captured them on my blog (sorry for the shameless plug, but the full write-up really is way too long to post here, I can't align photos with the story here, and really can't do Matt justice in a short blurb): http://onemorebiteblog.blogspot.com/2011/04/matt-biancaniello-redefining-novel-at.html Library Bar is now my favorite place for cocktails thanks to Matt. I've never been so excited about cocktails before - expect the unexpected when you go! So basically , the best nights for foodies or anyone else really to go are when Matt is working: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays! read more

Library Bar - Spanish Rose -amazing drink w/ saffron-infused St. Germain foam, strawberries +lime +agave +rose geranium water chocolate mint - Lounges Near Me - Hollywood, California

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Library Bar strikes me as a bit gimmicky, but it's not bad. The bar is tucked away in a corner of the Hotel Roosevelt lobby, but you can take lounge with your drink in the lobby after you order and pay. I went on a Saturday night and it wasn't packed, so the space is a huge plus unless you have your heart set as a table inside the bar. Overall, great atmosphere. Important to know - they don't have a drink menu! You tell the bartender what you like, and they will make something up for you on the spot. Normally, I'm all for bartender's choice, but my bartender seemingly went through the motions of adding the basic whisky/bitters/aperitif/citrus garnish (even though I had specifically asked for no citrus) for multiple drinks. Even if the drinks struck me as completely uninspired, the drinks tasted decent and the pours were generous. However, even though I was in Hotel Roosevelt, I was a bit struck that they were about $18.50 each. I don't feel that they were worth that at all - especially considering their well spirits are very budget, e.g. Old Crow. read more

This place is nice and cozy. I recommend this bar for a date. It's small, intimate and quite enough to be able to talk to each while having a nice drink and appetizer. The ambient is great! We order the chicharrones, they were super salty but good if you add lots of lime juice. read more

Library Bar - Lounges Near Me - Hollywood, California

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Resident Mixologist, Matthew Biancaniello, made me my first incredible cocktail last Sunday, a week after my friends and I saw his demonstration at Artisanal L.A in Santa Monica. His 17-step Bloody Mary (entirely created by him and the one recipe he firmly defends and will not alter) was like a religious experience, because the first words out of my mouth were "OMG!". My eyes rolled back in my head and I couldn't believe the complexity of flavors swirling around in my mouth. The alcohol kick was there but it wasn't the star. Think drinking isn't good for you, think again. This masterpiece was chock full of the highest quality farmer's market veggies, and I damn near got my daily requirements, all muddled up into one genius concoction! V-8 what? Simply outstanding. We were lucky enough to be there on a night that a couple was taste testing their wedding cocktail menu, which Matt will be pouring at. How lucky are those guests? We really got to see and taste his genius at work. I wish I could name them all. I just know that ALL other cocktails I've had in the past 20+ yrs pale in comparison. That is no joke. My tastebuds were delighted, my senses tickled, and I am enchanted! Matt's dedication to delivering quality to his patrons is unmatched. And from now on, you'll find me there Sunday nights, enjoying and learning from the master (and doing my best not to slurp down every brilliant drop in .2 seconds!!) What a perfect way to end a week and start a new one! Bravo, Matt. read more

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Custom drinks. What more cane I say?? Place is small and dark but I like the uniqueness. read more

Library Bar - My custom drink with 100 proof - Lounges Near Me - Hollywood, California

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Anna was amazing. This is great little bar hidden in the Roosevelt. I love this place. I miss the idea that the bartenders could ask you what you like and they give you something in that vein. read more

The absolute BEST craft bar in the area. Name your base alcohol & your custom drink is created by your personal mixologist on the spot! Cozy speakeasy feel with a view of Hollywood & Orange. Great music. Absolutely love Paul... A must go! read more

Library Bar - Lounges Near Me - Hollywood, California

My sister and I stayed at the Roosevelt, so we had to try the library. I've never experienced anything like this place! Cozy, comfy, and creative. Simply tell your bartender your favorite spirit and flavored. I especially love all the fresh ingredients on the bar top. A must try! read more

Library Bar - Jalapeño's, oranges and Midori! Blueberries and tonic! - Lounges Near Me - Hollywood, California

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I've been to the library bar in downtown, which I LOVE so I'm bummed that I have to give this one in Hollywood a bad review. This one is much smaller than the one downtown and there weren't even any books. I can't imagine what it's like later on as more people come in, but I'm definitely never going to find out. There are no cocktail menus; everything is personal preference. I don't understand this as that's what makes the Library Bar so special at the downtown location. They have all cute literary-based drinks. My friend and I both ordered a mojito and the bartender didn't tell us how much the drinks were until after he served them. $17? What kind of joke is that?? On the plus side, it was a good mojito so I was relieved that I didn't tooootally waste my money. Overall, I don't understand how this small lounge can call itself the Library Bar if it does literally nothing that the downtown Library Bar does. If you're ever deciding between which library bar to go to in the future, definitely go to the one downtown. read more

This is one of the best bars I have been to! The drinks are totally worth it. They didn't have an actual menu but you tell them what taste and what liquor you are looking for and they whip something cute and tasty for you. I am really picky when it comes to cocktails so this was a great find. read more

Library Bar - Lounges Near Me - Hollywood, California

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Tiny bar in the lobby of the Roosevelt Hotel with decent, terribly expensive drinks and an odd atmosphere. No menu here, just tell the bartender what you want or what you like and they'll whip you up a drink if classify as decent... Nothing awe inspiring. In fact, the only thing that dropped my jaw was the bill! $16 a drink! The bar is dark and small and when we were there, all sorts of people were in and out, including hotel guests who were in flip flops and shorts trying to get wifi and working on their computer. When you pay that much for a drink, I should feel as though I'm somewhere special, not a hotel media center... read more

The bartender stole money from me. I handed her a $50 and she only gave me $17 back when all I had was a $14 glass of wine.

I've been out of the Hollywood bar scene for a while, but I am pretty sure that for the best craft cocktails, this is THE place to get them. You'll find local celeb bartender Matt Biancaniello behind the bar concocting the most amazing drinks with fresh fruits and exotic ingredients. You'd swear you were at a farmer's market with all the colorful fruits and herbs beautifully displayed on the bar. We got The Roquette and Sage Heaven, based on recommendations from a girl next to us at the bar. They were gorgeous looking drinks. The Roquette is an arugula gimlet with Hendrick's Gin, and the Sage Heaven is a gin based drink with muddled raspberries and sage topped off with some ginger beer. Both were very refreshing, but VERY pricey. Expect to pay $16 a pop for these bad boys. The bar itself is sexy and very intimate. My BFF and I felt like we were crashing multiple date nights there. It is indeed a nice spot for some canoodling. I'd recommend starting off with some yummy cocktails here first, and then taking them over to Teddy's next door for some more lounging and dancing. read more

It was Friday night, a young man and his friends of a clan called Yelp was cruising westbound on Hollywood Blvd in discovering a new location to paint red. A notion had sparked, reminding them of a bookmarked lounge called the Library Bar @ Roosevelt Hotel. As we made the entrance, to the right of the lobby, then left down the corridor, there is a door on the side. As we unlocked this door with the key of imagination. Beyond it was another dimension - a dimension of taste, a dimension of sight, a dimension of mind. We were moving into a land of both shadow and substance, of things and ideas. Holy smoke...! We just crossed over into the Twilight Zone. Doo do--Doo do--Doo Do--Doo do... Yes, the decor in this joint warps you into a dimension of class yet mysteriously hidden in an historic spanish-style hotel which was once home to the 1st Academy Awards in the late 1920s. With its intimate ambiance, zebra like stools, and sophisticated furniture fittingly placed its puzzle pieces to form a classic black & white picture. All you had to do was try one of its outlandish cocktails to add color! The poison of choice was a concoction of whiskey descent as per recommendation of the mix master of the night. Rich sweetness of caramelized honey and some sort of hibiscus flavor yet balanced to not overwhelm the booze but had a touch of orange bitterness without jeopardizing the kick! It was called the 'Bad Habit' and I could see why, so be prepared to feel 'ballah' as the damage to your billfold will send echos at the end of night but definitely will impress your date! HOLLAAAAA! read more

The Library Bar at the Roosevelt hotel is one part farmer's market, one part top shelf spirits, a dash of opulent Hollywood glamour, and a heaping portion of genius mixology, all shaken, strained, and poured for your delight. Unless you roll with the jetsetting crowd and scoff at price tags altogether, $18 cocktails are pretty expensive for a beverage. Ergo, I don't see myself drinking here on the regular. It's like a luxury confection; there's a price for all that decadence, but sometimes it's nice to treat yourself. And what a treat it is to be served by Matt Biancaniello and his cohorts. As mentioned by others, there's no menu here. Since the ingredients are procured fresh as possible from the farmer's market, there is an ever-rotating selection of herbs, fruits, and other assorted flora that the master mixologists will muddle/grate/juice to combine with your favorite spirit to result in astounding original creations. Two examples of their creativity: a "Dillinger" consisting of Hendrick's Gin, dill, and ginger; and an unnamed tomato-basil-bourbon drink. I normally abhor tomato-based drinks like bloody mary's and micheladas, but man, was this good. Just give them a frame of reference, be it specific ("Smokey-citrusy-sweet") or weirdly vague ("I want a drink that tastes like Paris at dusk") and, like a delicious magic trick for your tastebuds, voila! a perfectly-crafted cocktail will appear before your very mouth. read more

Sometimes you take the best things for granted. I lived in LA for seven years before I visited the Getty. I lived in Sydney for 25 years and I never climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge. I even left my iPad sitting in its box for two months before ever turning it on! And I didn't drink at the Library Bar until two weeks ago. Sure, I knew its reputation. Sure, I'd had many of Matt's cocktails at Test Kitchen. But it was at the Roosevelt. In Hollywood. That place 10 minutes down the hill from me that I try to avoid. But I've decided to drink closer to home. Perhaps it's the possibility of leaving Hollywood that's made me appreciate it. La Descarga, the new Les Deux Estates, Big Bar, and now Library Bar and Spare Room. On the face of it, Library Bar is not much to look at. A small bar in an inconspicuous corner of the Roosevelt. A crowd of regulars, hotel guests and cocktalians. But it's not about the space. For that, go upstairs to the Spare Room. No, the Library Bar is about Matt Biancaniello. Scratch that. The Library Bar *IS* Matt Biancaniello. Just as he wouldn't make a cocktail from ingredients that weren't farmers market fresh, I wouldn't drink there when he wasn't working. Which is a good thing. Other bars need to survive! Don't expect a cocktail list at the Library Bar. Think of it as cocktail omakase. Look over the farmers market selection on the bar, tell Matt your alcohol of choice, maybe a couple of adjectives. Smokey, tart, bitter, vegetal. And then just leave it in his hands. From there, your job involves simply lifting the glass to your lips and enjoying. I know you can manage that. read more

Came here for a quiet drink after work on a Monday night. It wasn't busy at all, and the atmosphere was relaxed. They have a great whiskey selection and the bar staff was super friendly. We enjoyed sharing the octopus and asparagus dish, while the music was subtle enough to be heard but not enough to take over the conversation. Once star off because there was a bit of a mix up with the check when we tried to leave. Otherwise, it was a great little spot. read more

If it's your first time: Go up to the bar and ask if "Mattie" is working. If he is, introduce yourself, and let him change your perspective on whats possible in the world of mixology. If he's not, and the place is busy, kindly move on. ALL of the bartenders here are experienced, friendly and professional. They all make great drinks. But Mattie is all together on a different level. The other bartenders will tell you they are his equal. This is just not the case and almost preposterous to assume it is. It's like if Scottie Pippen would have said he was Michael Jordan's equal. Though he was an all-star himself, It's just not so. I won't mention any names, but you might even sense some hints of jealousy from a certain bartender, when Mattie's name is mentioned when he's not there. This mans drinks are excellent, but they lack the same body and texture as Mattie's. My girlfriend really likes this particular drink Mattie makes with coconut. She asked this bartender to make it the same way Mattie does, and he refused. "I won't make it that way, but you can have it the way I make it," he said. So she agreed- we tried it, and although it was interesting, it wasn't what she asked for at all, and was a little disappointed. So there was some attitude there, but overall he's a nice guy- and very talented. He's just not a living legend, like he thinks he is. With Matt, there's no attitude whatsoever. Once you've been here enough times, you will know the magic Matt possesses. He has access to the same ingredients his fellow co-workers do- but his choices, ratios, and overall vibes are unmatched. If there was a bartending hall of fame, he would be a future hall of famer. OK, enough stroking the Mattie ego! Just keep in mind that when it's busy here, you can wait upwards of 1 hour for a drink. So,if you're going to spend 16.00 per cocktail and wait that long, I suggest going with the best. That being said, all the bartenders here are true mixologists and are in the top 5% of bartenders in the United States. So, you will have a good experience here, whoever your bartender is, so long as you are prepared to pay a little more, and wait a little longer. Matt is a 1 percenter. When he's working you will taste the difference. I worked in fine dining for years, and it's very rare to find someone as skilled as this in any area of the service industry profession. This place is class all the way. read more

I think i like this bar, I was a little overwhelmed by entering the lobby of the Roosevelt. Its very old Hollywood which i love. Its dark, moody and just a little sexy. The bar area is smaller, but if your lucky you can find a couch to lounge on and enjoy a drink with friends or a cute guy/girl that your with!! Originally Minh D. and i were there to partake in the LA Rum Challange. Sadly Matt the bartender was no where to be found. Instead Vince was on duty and had no clue what Yelp or the Rum Challange was. Okay, fine ordered: Vodka and 7-up Vodka and cranberry Total:$22.00 (eep). Sorry im use to the OC bar prices. I dont normally drink or party to much in LA so whenever i hear how much a simple drink is, it makes me long for OC sometimes! Drinks were pretty watered down. For me it was a dash of Vodka and more ice and soda. Had our drinks, talked, and people watched, which btw is awesome. I think i could fall in love with this bar......... A second trip might be in the near future!! read more

Is Matthew a mixologist? I think he's more than that. He truly shows a passion for making unique drinks and paying proper homage to those forgotten old school cocktails. The library bar is located at the northeast corner of the lounge area inside the HRH. The place is tiny with 4 seats at the bar, 2 couches and a few chairs. Matt really takes pride in his craft. He spends 5 days out of the week visiting farmers markets buying fresh in season ingredients for his cocktails. I saw a few bowls filled with strawberries, blackberries, pineapple guava, honey, grapes, golden raspberries, mint, ginger, sage, and other local goods. Having someone create a drink from scratch with fresh ingredients takes time, so don't bitch about the wait. If you want a drink mixed with artificial syrups go some place else. The bar has a list of cocktails available, but there is a Matt list that he keeps in his head. Just tell him what spirits you like or what you have tried and liked before and he will create something special for you to enjoy. Put your trust in Matt and he will deliver "Omakase" style. Drinks are a little pricey around $15 but i do think they are definitely worth the price. read more

Hey yelpers they pay attention and read your reviews here at The Library Bar at the Hollywood Roosevelt. We brought an entourage here on a Tuesday night after our fantastic classical music evening at The Hollywood Bowl. We had to introduce our newbies to the best drinks in Los Angeles and granted at $17 a pop it was only going to be a drink and run but it was a great way to start off our evening bar crawl. There was actually a scene here this Tuesday night. The lobby was littered with people and the bar was a few people deep so my girlfriend and I hung out on the lush leather couches while we let the boys do the gentlemanly thing and manage our drinks for us. I spied a jar of squid ink on the bar and thought that would be something different. I'd love to see what they would concoct out of that. Apparently it was my lucky day. That Tuesday was the first time they premiered their black squid ink cocktail. The boys brought me my drink and i sipped it and put it down to take a photo of it to share on yelp but before I could take a photograph I hear my name being called. "Oulie, Oulie come here.." "Huh?" the boys and the bartender the infamous Matt(Hi Matt:) were calling me over to the bar. Matt wanted to know how I liked my drink. I wrinkled my nose at him. I don't think I really liked it offhand. It's salty and a bit bitter and has a really herbally aftertaste. Matt said "Oh you must not like the horseradish that is in it. It has a little bite to it." He offered to make me another drink more to my taste. Then I asked him what was in my current concoction. Gin was the main spirit of choice and then I asked what type of gin and he said Hendricks(i wrinkle my nose again) I tell him boodles is my favorite and then he says "Hey did you write a yelp review a few weeks ago on us? I read it" How cool is that? Made me feel special. Matt was very kind. Offered to make me another drink. He tasted the drink he made me and i asked him if that was the way it was suppose to taste. He said yes. I looked like I wasn't enjoying my drink and he offered to take it away and make me something else more to my liking but I wasn't giving up on this drink that easily. I'd never had a drink made with squid ink and I had to give it a fair chance. It's not the type of drink I immediately liked but it grew on me. There were these beautiful colorful flowers sprinkled on top that I enjoyed chewing while I sipped my drink. Definitely get a straw to sip the drink with it will turn ur lips black and I'm hesitant to admit this but it also makes ur poo really black too. The joys of being adventurous. Matt is the Man. This is the place to get the most innovative drinks in LA. I know my adventurous yelpers will be lining up for that squid ink cocktail. Cheers to adventurous cocktails and black poo. The elegant Roosevelt isn't going to like that last part of my review as i toast to poo. Haha read more

With Matt behind the bar, Library Bar serves some of the best cocktails in Los Angeles. They're also some of the most expensive. I've been back a couple times since my firrst review, and as of my last visit, drinks are $17.50 a pop. You'll want to tip well, so let's call them what they are - twenty dollar cocktails. When Matt is making the drinks, they're well worth $20 each. You get to watch a rare craftsman practice his art, and then you get to drink the art and get tipsy. Matt asks for your preferences and goes from there, getting creative with market fresh produce and a laboratory of quality liquor. I have not had a drink from him that I wouldn't like to drain again. I'd pay $20 plus parking for another taste of The Whole Enchilada. Matt mixed one for me when I told him I like spicy, savory mezcal cocktails that could really pass as food. He worked his magic with mezcal, chipotle-infused St. Germaine, and passion fruit, and delivered one of the best cocktails I have ever tasted. Smokey, spicy, strong, and hearty, but with a soft landing courtesy of the elderflower and passion fruit. As much as I love Matt's omakase process, I'd say you'd be hard pressed to do better than this. Then again, there was the Acquiescence, a drink of whiskey, red pepper, and oregano that tasted like pizza in a glass. Fun, ingenious, and just fucking delicious. Also hard to forget was Matt's take on a Bloody Mary. I told him that was a favorite of mine, and he said he had a seventeen-step Bloody Mary with Aquavit and a pantry of other ingredients, including dill and olive juice and mandarin orange. It made me weak. I tend to like my Bloody Marys thick and spicy, but this was a different interpretation. It was thinner in consistency but never in flavor, and the complex medley of ingredients wasn't just for show - all those notes hit my palate and played out a wonderful zesty melody. Matt tailors his drinks to his customers, but I've liked the drinks he's made for friends almost as much as the ones he customized to my taste. Last time we went, my boyfriend (also Matt, but he doesn't make amazing drinks) had me get his drink while he held down a table. I asked for something with whiskey or bourbon with something citrus and something sweet. I was horrified when Matt handed me a milk-white cocktail that he described as a take on a "Thai soup, like a tom kha kai" - great for me, but maybe not for my picky boyfriend. I held off on telling him the ingredients until he'd finished the last drop, with pleasure. The Lost in Laos had whiskey, coconut, kaffir lime, lemon juice, and chartreuse, and it was spectacular, with a definite Thai flavor profile and a pleasant balance of bitter and sweet. I also loved a cocktail that I sampled from the person sitting next to me at the bar. (As an aside, I love sitting at this bar - Matt is so good that he draws an awed audience that forms a small community of followers. My neighbor was a stranger, but he offered me a taste of his cocktail when he saw my eyes widen.) This was The Last Tango in Modena, made with Hendrick's gin, strawberry, aged balsamic, and a head of St. Germaine foam. I might order this one next time around. On the more serious pure alcohol end of the spectrum, I liked the Little Italy, a bitter cocktail with rye, Cynar, and sweet vermouth. A sipper, but smooth and balanced so that it glowed instead of burning down my throat. Matt mentioned he was working on a version with a coffee and mushroom infusion. I'm intrigued. So after all this raving, it's downright weird that this isn't a five-star review. Sure, Library Bar is expensive, but I'm not that upset about the cost. The thing is - Matt isn't always the one making your drinks, and when the sous chef steps up, it's still $20. Last time I was here, my friends and I made the mistake of going to the bar for round two when Matt had stepped out. By the time we approached, it was too late to turn back, and a woman who had been assisting him all night took our order. I had some confidence in her - she asked the right questions and had an air of competence about her. But when she brought our drinks, every one was a dud. They sounded like cocktails Matt might make, but they tasted thrown together and off balance, too acrid, or too watery. There was a mezcal cocktail with pepper, cilantro, green onion, and lime that tasted like green onion and not much else. Then a mix of bourbon with strawberry and agave and sage, and another version that switched out sage for rosemary. Thin, harsh, and unappealing. Finally, there was a weird gin and mezcal drink with bitter herbs. It was awful. Matt is an amazing bartender, and if you see him making drinks, hunker down. But do not pay $20 to get a drink from his protege. She needs more experience before she starts shillling her own concoctions. $80 for a bad round can put a damper on any night of cocktails, even at the peerless Library Bar. read more