Rough Draft Bar & Books
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The baklava pinwheel is the suggested snack to get here. It doesn't disappoint. This cozy book shop/bar/coffee shop is a Kingston staple on a historic cross street it holds history, endless character and unique cozy time. I would recommend popping by just to browse or grab a drink. There's a few small places to hang out. It's kid friendly and very charming for a one on one friend hang out or date night. Parking is on the street and there are sidewalks.
I wish we had something like this closer to the city, but I will take what I can get! If I owned a bookstore, I would love to have something similar to this place, because they serve great drinks and they have a very cozy bookstore environment. I tried a new seasonal drink on my most recent visit, which was delicious (one of my friends thought it was too sweet though). It was called The Fig Sleep and had hojicha tea, fig, black sesame and your choice of milk (I got oat). I got mine hot and it was so good, but I would say it was definitely heavier on the black sesame flavor. They also have a good amount of seating inside, and when I visited in September, they had outdoor seating available as well. There's also some really nice merchandise available for sale in addition to the books!
What a cute bookshop! There's a wide variety of books here - literally every genre represented. There's also a table featuring local authors. In addition to all the wonderful books, they have a café and bar here so you can drink tea/coffee or get some alcohol. There's plenty of seating too, and they let you read books here as if it were a library! I had a matcha latte and it was divine. Super cozy, and people mind their own business which I appreciate.
Every guy has a ponytail and every girl has a buzz cut, but that's the allure and magic of the place. You come here and you know what you're walking into. Warm, comfy, hipster-collegiate vibes. These people know how to brew a f**king cup of coffee, let me tell you. I love that the playfulness with the ingredients in making niche coffee flavors actually works. The drinks I had were exactly what I needed on a cold day. I'm obsessed that the place is essentially a used book library that you can either hang out in and read, or go in and purchase the books to own. LOVE that they have a community/local book club that meets up to hang out. Perfect place to grab a beer, grab a book, sip on some coffee and hang out with friends. Definitely recommend
Such a cute place. It has books, coffee, tea, beer and wine, and some light bites. They had a drink on the menu with ginger beer, and I asked if I could just get the ginger beer which they accommodated. I appreciated that, but wish they'd told me it was just a fever tree bottle -- I was hoping it would be on tap. Still good though! We also tried the verde pozole pie and a jalapeño cheddar biscuit. I really enjoyed the biscuit, great distribution of the jalapeños! The pozole pie was unique too. I love it as a soup and it went pretty well as a flavor to the savory pie. Also shout out to the Smiths playlist that we all enjoyed, really caught the vibe of the rainy fall day well.
Kingston, NY - I've been to plenty of bookstore cafes, but more should adopt a bar like this one! This is a very cozy and inviting cafe-shop that beckons you to lounge or browse over a coffee or craft beer. The ambiance is warm, with thoughtfully curated book displays. We went for an afternoon pick-me-up but lingered a bit and ended up buying a "Where's Waldo"esque book for my child. I'll always be a fan and advocate of book-books as nothing beats brick-and-mortar or the feeling of thumbing through the pages of the physical article in your hands.
A combination bar, cafe and bookstore, this spot is a fun place to hang out in. In addition to alcohol and coffee/tea, they also sell hand pies, baked goods and bread from local places. It was busy on a Saturday afternoon. There are some couches and tables but if it gets crowded, there aren't a lot of places to sit. Street and metered parking
Amazing bookstore where you can get a great microbrew hence the name "rough draft. " I was able to get a lager for seven dollars and a James Baldwin paperback for $20. Very cool take on a bookstore - You often see the coffee shop /book store combo, which they also have - along with tea, but to be able to grab some brews makes this place just amazing, along with the eclectic selection; ranging from the occult to self-help!!! 10/10.
A great place to go anytime of the day or evening! Books, Caffeine, alcohol or food. It's cozy in here and you can sit within the books or at the bar. The staff is attentive and very friendly. Coffee - 4 out of 5 Lattes - 4.5 out 5 Cookies - 5 out of 5 The molasses cookies were so damn good. The drink specials is a must! If you are in the area go check this place out.
This place is so great. like so great we went back the next day kinda great. I highly recommend trying to go as early as possible as the afternoon hours on saturday proved this place the most popular spot in town. So many people in one space! and it's not small! The pastries were fantastic, cappuccino and tea were both delicious and well made. They can get backed up because they only have one cash register for food/drink - so prepare to wait a little. But there's no better place to do it since you are surrounded by interesting literature, ambiance, and a little cards/games selection to browse. Overall a cozy spot and a must see if you're in the Kingston area! Dog and kid friendly! :)
I'm always looking for somewhere to work from as a remote employee. Rough draft has the best community vibe, loads of events, and delicious coffee and treats (and after hour drinks)! Definitely recommend if you're in the Kingston area.
What a great drive to Rough Draft Bar & Books from NJ. I can't tell you enough how anxious I was to walk in, browse all their books, try their delicious coffee and find a poetry book. This gem of a place is nestled in the town of Kingston, NY of which is filled with incredible history (if you're a history buff, you'll love the town). I arrived at peak time, so it was quite busy. However, I was able to find a stool in the corner at the bar area. I waited for the staff member just bit (understandably) and I placed my coffee order. What I ordered: Sex.Drug & Coconuts version 2.0 It was their featured drink for the month of August (see their Instagram page - @roughdraftny ) I was so excited that I immediately asked for the coffee drink not realizing that I had a option between hot or cold. What I wanted was the cold version, but I got the hot which was outrageous delicious!!! Plus I got the bonus beautiful decorative foam on top.(see photo) Staff members were kind and the ambiance was very cool and relaxing atmosphere. Plenty of stools around the bar area. Different types of seating, near the window, large farm table in the center with benches, and sofa. You can order draft beer. The prices were reasonable too. I didn't order anything else, but I'm looking forward to going back soon with a few friends who are books lovers. Great selection of books of all genres and a small gift shop with cool tshirts. (I'll get the tshirt next time around) There's outdoor seating as well. Perfect place for a date and and Autumn Trip.
This is one of my favorite bookstores PERIOD. Located in the historic town of Kingston (New York's original capital), the whole area is oozing charm and Rough Draft Bar & Books is no exception. The only thing I like better than browsing a bookstore is browsing a book store with a beer (or one of their super fun rotating coffee specials!). No notes. I highly recommend!
My wife has found her new absolute favorite bookstore! I think it is an incredibly thought out and perfectly executed bookstore meets bar meets cafe. We were about an hour away where this is typically around 5 hours away so knew we needed to check it out being so close. Snagged street parking easily and even just the vibes of the outside started off our experience so nicely. Located at what is dubbed Four Corners that is I believe the only remaining intersection in the US that has pre-revolutionary stone houses on all 4 corners. Such an amazing sight to see the old architecture. Rough Draft has utilized the space so perfectly. Worth visiting even if you are looking to just browse. I highly recommend trying a coffee or tea drink to start your day though and a baked good. If those aren't your cup of tea grab a beer or wine then. My wife got an Iced Mocha and loved it. I went with one of their current specials, "I Know What You Did Last S'more". It was so good but was unique compared to a typical s'more coffee drink since it had espresso and smoked black tea. I also had a chocolate croissant while my wife had a maple palmier and we enjoyed both. We snagged some window seats and it was the perfect way to enjoy the drinks and baked goods. My wife loved browsing the books and thought it had so many unique books she hadn't seen at other bookstores. Which it really is more than just a bookstore with the cafe and bar vibes! Highly recommend everyone check it out, if you can. We look forward to coming back! read more
I have so many good things to say, where do I even start?! First of all, this book and bar spot is absolutely beautiful. It's located on such a charming street, and stepping inside felt like walking into an elevated Barnes & Noble straight out of a Harry Potter movie. There are endless shelves of books across every genre, cozy seating throughout, and the perfect atmosphere to spend hours browsing or reading. The coffee was just as wonderful as the space. I wasn't sure what to order, so the barista recommended a drink and was incredibly accommodating with my many requests. I can't have too much milk or syrup, so I basically gave them a complicated custom order, and they made it exactly to my liking without hesitation. I also ended up buying one of the chocolate bars they had at the counter and turns out it was $20!!!! As a tourist, I had no idea it was a well known local chocolate brand with a factory nearby, so that was a fun surprise. This is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down. I'd love to come back, grab a coffee, spend the entire afternoon reading, and just soak in the comforting smell of books and fresh coffee. Such a cozy, magical spot that's well worth visiting! read more
I came here a few weekends ago as I was staying in the area, and it was super cute! If you love indie bookstores with the ability to buy coffee, pastries or wine, then you have found your spot! They had a good amount of seating (including both in the coffee area as well as surrounding the books). The service was friendly and they had a really good variety of books to choose from. I'd come here all the time if I lived close by. read more
7 days ago
The baklava pinwheel is the suggested snack to get here. It doesn't disappoint. This cozy book shop/bar/coffee shop is a Kingston staple on a historic cross street it holds history, endless character and unique cozy time. I would recommend popping by just to browse or grab a drink. There's a few small places to hang out. It's kid friendly and very charming for a one on one friend hang out or date night. Parking is on the street and there are sidewalks. read more
1 year ago
I wish we had something like this closer to the city, but I will take what I can get! If I owned a bookstore, I would love to have something similar to this place, because they serve great drinks and they have a very cozy bookstore environment. I tried a new seasonal drink on my most recent visit, which was delicious (one of my friends thought it was too sweet though). It was called The Fig Sleep and had hojicha tea, fig, black sesame and your choice of milk (I got oat). I got mine hot and it was so good, but I would say it was definitely heavier on the black sesame flavor. They also have a good amount of seating inside, and when I visited in September, they had outdoor seating available as well. There's also some really nice merchandise available for sale in addition to the books! read more
What a cute bookshop! There's a wide variety of books here - literally every genre represented. There's also a table featuring local authors. In addition to all the wonderful books, they have a café and bar here so you can drink tea/coffee or get some alcohol. There's plenty of seating too, and they let you read books here as if it were a library! I had a matcha latte and it was divine. Super cozy, and people mind their own business which I appreciate. read more
Every guy has a ponytail and every girl has a buzz cut, but that's the allure and magic of the place. You come here and you know what you're walking into. Warm, comfy, hipster-collegiate vibes. These people know how to brew a f**king cup of coffee, let me tell you. I love that the playfulness with the ingredients in making niche coffee flavors actually works. The drinks I had were exactly what I needed on a cold day. I'm obsessed that the place is essentially a used book library that you can either hang out in and read, or go in and purchase the books to own. LOVE that they have a community/local book club that meets up to hang out. Perfect place to grab a beer, grab a book, sip on some coffee and hang out with friends. Definitely recommend read more
Such a cute place. It has books, coffee, tea, beer and wine, and some light bites. They had a drink on the menu with ginger beer, and I asked if I could just get the ginger beer which they accommodated. I appreciated that, but wish they'd told me it was just a fever tree bottle -- I was hoping it would be on tap. Still good though! We also tried the verde pozole pie and a jalapeño cheddar biscuit. I really enjoyed the biscuit, great distribution of the jalapeños! The pozole pie was unique too. I love it as a soup and it went pretty well as a flavor to the savory pie. Also shout out to the Smiths playlist that we all enjoyed, really caught the vibe of the rainy fall day well. read more
Kingston, NY - I've been to plenty of bookstore cafes, but more should adopt a bar like this one! This is a very cozy and inviting cafe-shop that beckons you to lounge or browse over a coffee or craft beer. The ambiance is warm, with thoughtfully curated book displays. We went for an afternoon pick-me-up but lingered a bit and ended up buying a "Where's Waldo"esque book for my child. I'll always be a fan and advocate of book-books as nothing beats brick-and-mortar or the feeling of thumbing through the pages of the physical article in your hands. read more
A combination bar, cafe and bookstore, this spot is a fun place to hang out in. In addition to alcohol and coffee/tea, they also sell hand pies, baked goods and bread from local places. It was busy on a Saturday afternoon. There are some couches and tables but if it gets crowded, there aren't a lot of places to sit. Street and metered parking read more
6 months ago
1 year ago
Amazing bookstore where you can get a great microbrew hence the name "rough draft. " I was able to get a lager for seven dollars and a James Baldwin paperback for $20. Very cool take on a bookstore - You often see the coffee shop /book store combo, which they also have - along with tea, but to be able to grab some brews makes this place just amazing, along with the eclectic selection; ranging from the occult to self-help!!! 10/10. read more
A great place to go anytime of the day or evening! Books, Caffeine, alcohol or food. It's cozy in here and you can sit within the books or at the bar. The staff is attentive and very friendly. Coffee - 4 out of 5 Lattes - 4.5 out 5 Cookies - 5 out of 5 The molasses cookies were so damn good. The drink specials is a must! If you are in the area go check this place out. read more
This place is so great. like so great we went back the next day kinda great. I highly recommend trying to go as early as possible as the afternoon hours on saturday proved this place the most popular spot in town. So many people in one space! and it's not small! The pastries were fantastic, cappuccino and tea were both delicious and well made. They can get backed up because they only have one cash register for food/drink - so prepare to wait a little. But there's no better place to do it since you are surrounded by interesting literature, ambiance, and a little cards/games selection to browse. Overall a cozy spot and a must see if you're in the Kingston area! Dog and kid friendly! :) read more
2 years ago
I'm always looking for somewhere to work from as a remote employee. Rough draft has the best community vibe, loads of events, and delicious coffee and treats (and after hour drinks)! Definitely recommend if you're in the Kingston area. read more
3 years ago
What a great drive to Rough Draft Bar & Books from NJ. I can't tell you enough how anxious I was to walk in, browse all their books, try their delicious coffee and find a poetry book. This gem of a place is nestled in the town of Kingston, NY of which is filled with incredible history (if you're a history buff, you'll love the town). I arrived at peak time, so it was quite busy. However, I was able to find a stool in the corner at the bar area. I waited for the staff member just bit (understandably) and I placed my coffee order. What I ordered: Sex.Drug & Coconuts version 2.0 It was their featured drink for the month of August (see their Instagram page - @roughdraftny ) I was so excited that I immediately asked for the coffee drink not realizing that I had a option between hot or cold. What I wanted was the cold version, but I got the hot which was outrageous delicious!!! Plus I got the bonus beautiful decorative foam on top.(see photo) Staff members were kind and the ambiance was very cool and relaxing atmosphere. Plenty of stools around the bar area. Different types of seating, near the window, large farm table in the center with benches, and sofa. You can order draft beer. The prices were reasonable too. I didn't order anything else, but I'm looking forward to going back soon with a few friends who are books lovers. Great selection of books of all genres and a small gift shop with cool tshirts. (I'll get the tshirt next time around) There's outdoor seating as well. Perfect place for a date and and Autumn Trip. read more
This is one of my favorite bookstores PERIOD. Located in the historic town of Kingston (New York's original capital), the whole area is oozing charm and Rough Draft Bar & Books is no exception. The only thing I like better than browsing a bookstore is browsing a book store with a beer (or one of their super fun rotating coffee specials!). No notes. I highly recommend! read more
This historic building hosts the perfect coffeehouse/bar/book shop! The drinks are delightful. The book options are wonderful and diverse. The staff is friendly. AND ITS IN A PRE REVOLUTIONARY WAR BUILDING. This must be a stop on any trip to Kingston! read more
7 months ago
3 years ago
1 year ago
I love the bookstore/cafe/bar combo! Very popular place on a Sunday afternoon and there was a long line for beverages. We enjoyed hot cider on a crisp day, and I enjoyed their special of the month too--Squashington Irving (espresso, pumpkin, vanilla and spices). Very fun latte! Outside seating. I love a good bookstore and this was very enjoyable. read more
2 years ago
Awesome spot with an amazing location in historical Kingston. Great, fresh selection of local beer and I need to try their coffee. There was live music both times I visited and an awesome crowd. Good selection of books and regular specials. read more
3 years ago
Soooo stinking cute! We came up from NYC and needed a place to work from. It is a brewery, bookstore, and cafe all in one rustic inviting place. It was clearly a popular destination as many of the seats were taken. The 5-stars is for the wonderful service, creative drinks, and all-around awesomeness of this place. The vibes were so nice. The drinnnnnks of the month are so interesting and creative. My friend had a strawberry cardamom latte and an IPA. I had a blackberry honey espresso tonic. My drink tastes like iced tea with a bit of an espresso kick! Good amount of seating although limited outlets and table seats (for laptops). One bathroom only. Dogs welcome! Saw plenty of cute pups just hanging out inside too. Hats off to this place! read more
3 years ago
Large book store in Kingston with coffee, tea and alcohol served. They also have fresh baked good from various local bakeries Variety of seating inside and some outside when the weather is nice. Went on a Friday night and they had live music read more
3 years ago
2 years ago
Best bookstore in Kingston! I'm not a coffee drinker but I do love their hot chocolate. I order the same thing every time I stop by ( Small hot chocolate and a cookie) .This place is super cozy with an awesome selection of books. If you can find a seat on a less busy day your in luck! It's a chill place to meet up with friends or get some work done. Staff is always friendly and helpful. If your new to Kingston definitely check it out it's one of a kind. read more
1 year ago
7 years ago
Super cool spot in uptown Kingston which is a favorite of mine for many purposes. Great for starting or continuing day time drinking on the weekends, good for casual date nights or before dinner drink, but my favorite is as a study spot. The medium to low noise level at all times is hard to find elsewhere. I also love the big windows so you feel slightly less like you're in a dungeon of learning. I also love it simply book store, with lots of cool display themes that have lead me to books I otherwise wouldn't have found. They have trivia night, though I've never tried. They sell fresh bread from local spots and sometimes sweets from the local Kingston candy bar. Ive seen advertisements for various author events, too. This place is a great addition to the local community and I always recommend! read more
This could be the coolest idea I've seen in a while. Combining four of my favorite things in one place-beer, coffee, baked goods, and books. Wifey and I stopped in here today while on a mini beer tour in Kingston. Located in one of the most famous areas of New York (Four Corners in Kingston) the place has a great beer selection, amazing books, very cool ambiance (as long as the hipster community doesn't annoy you), dog and kid friendly, and a warm friendly staff. I had the King's Christmas Scotch Ale and Wifey had a Rose Cider. Both were fantastic. A couple items to note - Parking around here is tough, but there's a free parking lot down the street, getting a table in here is also tough as there aren't a lot, but people seemed more than willing to share their space, and with all the beer and coffee served here there was a queue for the restrooms. That said, I would love to come back here again. read more
4 years ago
I think I found heaven. Books, beer, AND brew?! Only thing that would make this place better is if they opened up a location near me on Long Island! read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
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More info about Rough Draft Bar & Books
82 John St
Kingston, NY 12401
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(845) 802-0027
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http://roughdraftny.com
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