We were so excited for our first evening out at a good restaurant in at least half a year; however we were honestly fairly disappointed with the entire dinner. I will give background and say we first stopped over in the afternoon and inquired about dinner reservations. We were told it was absolutely packed and booked and we wouldn't be able to get in for five to six days. We went home and immediately made a reservation online. While we were messaged by the restaurant and told jt was inside only, that wasn't a problem and wish we would have been told upfront about that when we were in person. We let it go and went to dinner. The hostess was a doll and sat us in the corner as we had our six month old baby with us. However, our waiter (who lo and behold was the SAME that told us they were booked through) was seriously one of the worst servers we have had in forever. While we have dined at many Michelin star restaurants, we don't expect five star service but we do expect competence. For example, We asked to have a second bowl of bread.... after three rounds of drinks and FOUR requests the waiter finally told us we were only allowed one basket of bread per table. We would have paid for another basket and also would have appreciated being told upfront if that is the rule. Additionally, each round of drinks took at least twenty minutes to receive and my fathers cocktail was made wrong. When we inquired about it, the waiter told us well it was probably sitting there for awhile so it got watered down.... okay unacceptable one would think..... but apparently that is the norm. We also ordered a side of truffle fries. We never got them, and when I checked the bill, (which they correctly weren't on) I asked the waiter and he said oh we ran out. Where was the apology or even just the acknowledgement that we never got them? The food itself was fairly decent. French onion soup was delicious, peel and eat shrimp needed to be properly cleaned but were good, scallops were okay but slightly over cooked and needed some acid, and our seafood parpardelle was excellent but I don't think we'd be back because of how frustrating the whole experience was. I will say the upside is how great the other servers seemed. There was an older woman and younger male server that were both sweethearts. One last note- our waiter NEVER had his mask on properly. It was below his nose the entire time. Can't say we would be back nor recommend though the food was good and patio was adorable. Update- the owner called and profusely apologized and took complete and total ownership of the situation. Adjusted review to reflect and sincerely believe more training will be initiated to ensure this doesn't happen again. read more

What a beautiful space, lovely staff, warm, inviting and food out of this world! Can't wait to return.

The Old Library Restaurant ambiance is as described, beautiful prohibition style bar, bright and airy. I give it 3 stars for their food quality basically because the food was not as described on the menu. We started with a beet salad which was to come with a "goat cheese and walnut crumble". The lettuce was fresh but beets were flavorless and there were no walnuts to be found. The Margarita Pizza was basically a soggy regular mozzarella cheese pizza with some Basil/pesto swirl. Lastly the Bourbon Peach Pork Loin Grilled pork loin described as "pork loin topped with a rich bourbon peach glaze. Served with creamy herb risotto and chef's seasonal roasted vegetables" Basically what I got was 2 over cooked pork loins with 3 canned peach slices! No bourbon sauce which this dish desperately needed. The server was very kind and offered another dish but by then the meal was served to the group and I didn't want to be the only one eating so I declined. Perhaps a bad night, but we won't be returning. read more

Our waiter Grant was a nice young man on Friday night August 25,2023. We were seated promptly for our reservation. We were served water from a busser. Specials were explained and drink order was taken. We ordered he onion soup as our starter and prime rib and a filet Louis style for our entrees. We were served our soup when our dinner entrees were brought out yo our table we were not offered any drink refills and we did not see Grant until he brought our check. We still left him a nice tip... just needs to be more attentive to his patrons. We were traveling from out of town and had not been to the old library in more then 10 years. Miss the table side ceaser and the table side banana flambe. Wonderful upgrades to the interior and very nice live music in the lobby. Overall a great experience except I could have used another water and my partner another coffee and at least check on your guests throughout the meal, especially for the price point. read more

What an amazing atmosphere this place has, complete with old books! The cocktails were creative and delicious and so was the food. I had the braised lamb shank and my husband had the bourbon peach pork loin. Both were really good. I really loved the Italian salad dressing and even tried to get them to give me the recipe but they wouldn't do it, sigh. Our server, Chris, was really nice and fun to talk to! I would definitely go back again! read more

When I was growing up, The Old Library was reserved for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries and graduations. I hadn't been there for well over 10 years when we recently went back for my Grandmother's 80th birthday party. There were close to 20 of us in a back room. They were accommodating and service was good, but the food was really disappointing. I got the Roast Long Island Duckling and it was so dry, we were joking that it reminded us of the Griswold turkey. Every time that my cousin asked for another beer, our server would bring him a completely different beer than the one before it. He jokingly said, "Well, I guess it's my fault since I didn't specify WHICH beer". Whenever I asked one of our family members "How is your _____?" I would get a lackluster "meh" or "it's ok". I do agree with other reviewers that the salads are very good; especially the Caesar salad that is made at the table. Luckily the good company and a fair amount of alcohol made up for the regrettable meal. The building is gorgeous inside and out and the atmosphere could be described as romantic if it wasn't so loud. Granted, there were several parties going on that night, but there was no conversation to be had other than with those in my immediate vicinity. I just think the layout of the building, with the bar and reception area in the big, open entryway lends itself to sounds bouncing all over the place (kind of ironic considering that it's a library). read more

Well being from LA there isn't much in Olean in comparison. Talk about small towns, it looks like you're stuck in a movie or Disneyland's Main Street. Having said that, they have REALLY good food. I've been here twice and not been disappointed. I LOVE their caesar salad. it's made fresh, no dressing from a bottle. in fact i was there with a group and got to see them make it in front of us. Had their shrimp scampi which was yummy and finished off with a cake (i can't remember what it was, but it had peanut butter something in it). I have to agree with about the caramel, chocolate covered apples. I only had a wedge or two but they're so AMAZING. not too sweet and the apple's flavors just pop in ur mouth. read more

The food was very very good. Imaginative, tasty beautifully plated. Sea Bass, tenderloin tips. Prime rib, a full chicken menu. Salad menu...cute cocktail menu too. Unfortunately we had terrible service. One amateur guy for table of 12. Clueless but very nice kid. read more

We stumbled upon this amazing place, and everything was wonderful!! Highly recommend!! It is an aesthetic and culinary masterpiece!!

This was a stop on a recent graduation in Olean, NY. Yummy rolls and salted bins of butter to start you off. Try the prime rib if you're feeling carniverous. There is also a smokin hoisin marinated salmon. Also, don't pass the spinach salad with warm bacon dressing. And the DESSERTS! They even have a chocolate and caramel covered apple that the staff will split in half for you, cut one half and wrap the other to take away. Can't go wrong with this spot. Enjoy. read more

What a hidden gem! Had lunch today at the Old Library and everything was superb! Started with the best cocktail I've had in a long time. It was so hard to choose, they all sounded amazing. Moved on to spinach dip. It had the perfect blend of spinach, artichokes and cheese. Followed that up with the chicken salad croissant sandwich. My friend had the prohibition burger. They were both fantastic. The ambiance of this restaurant is off the charts. Can't wait to go back! read more

Last weekend we stayed with 9 people at the Old Library Inn next door. We are all grads of SBU and were in town for a game. When we checked in we were told the restaurant next door was open for business, so on Friday we went over for drinks, and on Saturday had dinner. I'm happy to say it was crowded both nights, and while only open for the past 5 weeks, it seems like they are off to a good start. The bar area is gorgeous. They have 3 or 4 tables and had put out some finger foods as well. The bartenders are friendly, and what was really fun were the book shelves filled with old yearbooks which helped with conversation and passing the time. Our dinner reservation was around 7:45, but they said we could arrive early and hopefully we could be seated a little quicker. We ended up at a long table in a room across from the bar area. There is also seating above in a mezzanine area, and quite frankly with a table for 9, it was pretty loud. But you have to expect that if you are going to have a big party. Our server was outstanding, and he had several helpers to keep things moving. Several people at the table ordered steaks (filet, delmonico and ribeye) and were very happy with their selections. Two ordered salmon and were both delighted the way it came out. One person had a salad, and two had the lamb shank (absolutely enormous). It was quite a presentation once the food arrived. I myself ordered a special (duck breast) that was a mistake on my part. I love duck, but if I had listened closer would have gone back to plan B. It came with a siracha chile sauce which just did not go well with the duck at all, and compared to the generous portions others had, left me very hungry. I counted 6 small pieces of duck and if I had wanted to could have finished it in 3 minutes. Fortunately there was rice and a veggie that allowed me to string the entree out. Another in our party let me try some of her lamb shank so I at least didn't go out hungry. But again, 8 happy out of 9 is a great batting average. By the time we were finished, many of the diners had left and it was wonderful to finish our meal and be able to hear each other. To be more fair, they had offered to split us up into two tables of 5 and 4, but this was a reunion so we opted for the long table. We thought the prices were reasonable given the quality of the food and service, plus the place is just beautiful. Everyone who lives in the area should check it out, and I'm sure next year when we come back we'll try it again. read more

This evening was our first time at this breathtaking establishment and most certainly will not be our last. Of course, being an avid book lover, I fell in love with the ambience well before I even consumed my 1st morsel of decadent food. We were seated at a corner table in the library, surrounded by beautiful old books and decor. We were promptly greeted by our server (who did a FANTASTIC job) and we were served bread and our drinks within moments. Our appetizer was the crab stuffed button mushrooms broiled with Asiago cheese and champagne cream sauce ... so delicious! I ordered the filet mignon topped with a lump lobster with béarnaise sauce, atop garlic mashed potatoes and perfectly cooked seasonal vegetables. The steak was so tender, it literally melted in my mouth. The lobster was also cooked to perfection. My love ordered the Bourbon Peach Pork Tenderloin topped with a rich bourbon peach glaze. Served with creamy herb risotto and chef's seasonal roasted vegetables. He demolished his meal to put it vaguely. The ambiance, service and food were outstanding. I HIGHLY recommend this restaurant, it's definitely one of our new favorites!! read more

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I have been here several times since reopening, the service is extremely slow. Always takes a minimum of half hour for drinks. Not the service I expected for the price point. read more

Went there with my husband, daughter and grandson. I can tell you that it exceeded our expectations. All meals were delicious and service was great. We were treated like royalty from the moment we walked in. Drinks were very good as I always judge a restaurant first by it's Bloody Mary's.. Will definitely come back again and again. read more

EPIC! This is officially my favorites restaurant. Food is beautiful original and delicious. And the staff is so nice and friendly. This is a must for anyone who loves fine dinning. Me and my wife had 3 courses of unbelievable food in large portions and drinks for under $90 . I would have gladly paid twice that. The presentation was so good and professional. read more

The Old Library Restaurant - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Olean, New York

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We had an absolutely delightful party at the recently remodeled and reopened Old Library restaurant in Olean. The food, the venue and the service were all outstanding. I highly recommend it! We had a large group and everyone was very happy and impressed. read more

Beautifully restored restaurant but NOT vegetarian or vegan friendly. Despite requesting a vegetarian meal when we made online reservations weeks in advance & asking the chef upon arrival, we were not accommodated in any way. We won't return for a meal there. read more

We went here for Sunday brunch this morning. It runs from 10-2:30. It was very reasonably priced (about $15 per person) and consisted of pastries, hot dishes, a carving station with beef, turkey, and ham, omelettes made to order in front of you, Belgian waffles, fresh fruit, soup, and a salad bar. Drinks included coffee and fruit juices. The waiter was very attentive and the atmosphere was wonderful (it even included a gentleman playing the piano while you ate). I definitely recommend the Sunday brunch! read more

Fine dining has finally returned to Olean! Every aspect of our visit tonight was top-notch. Service was exceptional, with our every request or need met quickly and efficiently. The menu has something for every taste, and special requests, such as gluten-free or changes to menu offerings are readily accommodated. The food was amazing - cooked to perfection with perfect presentation. The atmosphere at the Old Library Restaurant is unparalleled. Renovations preserved the integrity of the original Carnegie Library, but with a modern twist. I highly recommend this restaurant, for lunch, dinner, or your special event. read more

The is a review for the new owners of the Old Library. The food was awesome! I got the scallops and they were the best scallops I have ever eaten. Our experience was so pleasurable that my wife and I have tried every menu they offer (lunch, dinner, and bar) in the course of 3 days! Each meal I got was delicious and fair priced for what I recieved. I cannot wait to go back again! read more

The food at The Old Library never disappoints. The scope of the menu is impressive ranging from homemade Gnocchi to Seared Ahi Tuna. It seems anyone could find something appealing to their palate. The Table-Side made Caesar Salad is an absolute must as well as the gigantic Candy Apples. The atmosphere and history of the building is sure to impress anyone. The bar is gorgeous and very well stocked. Waitstaff is always courteous and professional. Whenever I have business in the sticks of New York I am sure to make a detour to The Old Library, there is no better place within an hour. read more

After four years of having a son at St. Bonaventure, we've had to go to this restaurant at least once a semester, generally for some sort of function. It is, as other reviewers have said, just "meh". Pricy, boring, adequate but far from outstanding. The building is lovely, but that's about the only thing for which I can really muster up any enthusiasm. If you find yourself in Olean, please do yourself a favor and skip The Old Library, and visit Chef's Bistro instead (see my review). If you are any bit of a food enthusiast, you'll be glad you did. read more

Haven't been in a few years but LOVE the desserts! Great service..best place to eat in Olean.

I had my wedding and reception here and everything seemed wonderful at first. Great price, came with a wedding coordinator, and a beautiful room. The day of the wedding though, the coordinator didn't show up, they locked us in the room where we were having our ceremony (when we were walking back down the aisle to start a greeting line after the ceremony), and one of the staff members stole my wife's iPod Touch. The staff was also rude about having to delay serving the food since everything had to be delayed after getting locked in the room. They reimbursed us for the iPod and gave us a gift card to their restaurant for our troubles. How generous. Of course we wanted to eat there again after that! I wanted to rate this place 1 star, but my wife still loved the venue and the food, so I'll give it 3 stars. read more

As I write this I am thinking of when I can get back there for another steak. It had been years since I have been back to the Old Library and was recently back for business. I had a drink and some appetizers in the bar area with others and then just decided to order off the menu. It was comfortable, the waitress was great (there but not annoying and checked back often), but then there is the food! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! I am a filet person. I mean a good steak. You cannot get better than this. The only place close has been Mortons. I was just in heaven. I ordered the filet. The steak was cooked to order (med: very pink/a little red in the middle), the veggies were great, the baked potato was superb! It was ALL excellent! Some average wines per glass that helped it go down and the atmosphere was wonderful. I will go back whenever I can. With others or alone. This time I was alone and I did not feel bad eating alone here. It was just a great evening and a great meal. The only downer is the price. It IS expensive. But worth every cent! read more

Being close to Olean, I've been to this restaurant many times. I've never been disappointed as this is one of the best restaurants in the world. Like the Beefeaters restaraunt in Bradford, this restaraunt is as its name applies. A former library. The've even kept old books on the shelves in the dining area that I've looked through once or twice. This restaraunt has the absolute best food and unmatched service. Even live piano most days. I love their sunday brunch it's one of the best programs their is. I read more

Restaurant no longer open for lunch or dinner. Only does events and catering. Food and service at events is always good

After dropping off the kids at college last year we stopped over in Olean and were blown away by an amazing restaurant called "Chefs Bistro" (see my Yelp review). So I can't begin to describe the disappointment when we stopped back to find they were closed for renovations. The Library had comparable reviews in Yelp so we decided to eat there instead. The atmosphere is very quaint but that's where the good in this place ends. To start, the menu is very broad but none of our four entrees or appetizers were anything special and overall the food was far fresh (rubbery fishy smelly shrimp, old vegetables etc) and highly unsatisfying. In fact another reviewer described the food as "eh, Mah, it's ok" and that is a very accurate description. My wife had ordered a glass of wine and it had turned to vinegar, which I tasted to confirm. When we returned it the waiter said the bar-staff said the bottle was fresh and the wine was fine (without even tasting it). On top of this we asked for bread on the table and were told twice in a very condescending manner that bread will be brought out with the salad, if we ordered salad (so if you don't order salad, don't expect bread on the table - they'll give you some cheese and crackers instead). My son also ordered Escargot and it came in the shell with no Escargot fork to dig it out. When we asked for one we were told the cocktail forks don't fit and that he would have to use toothpicks. I don't want to sound picky but come on, a restaurant shouldn't serve a dish like this without the proper utensils and expect people to struggle with toothpicks (if you've even eaten escargot you know what I mean, and you also know that even the simplest restaurants that serve it provide a long, two prong, escargot fork with which to eat it). It was only after the waiter overhead be telling my wife that I would have walked out of the restaurant if we didn't already order entrees that the hostess returned with a fresh glass of wine for my wife (and guess what? it didn't taste like vinegar so obviously the bar-staff has lied to us); a basket of bread was brought to the table (before the salad - wow what a miracle). All in all they tried to make it right and the waiter was excellent but I shouldn't have had to be overheard threatening to leave before things were corrected, and even after the correction it just couldn't make up for the horrible food. If you're in Olean, do yourself a favor and skip this place. read more