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Brandy Library
Categories: American (New), Lounges, Wine Bars [Edit]
Neighborhood: TriBeCa25 N Moore St
(between Hudson St & Varick St)
New York, NY 10013
(212) 226-5545
- Nearest Transit:
-
Franklin St (1)
Canal-Church Sts (A, C, E)
Canal Street (J, M, Z, N, Q, R, W, 6)
- Hours:
Mon-Wed. 5:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Thu-Sat. 4:00 p.m. - 4:00 a.m.
Sun. 5:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.
- Attire:
- Dressy
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Good for:
- Late Night
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Thu, Fri, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- Yes
Bubble Lounge
- 62 reviews
- Neighborhood:
- TriBeCa
"Still going strong after all these years. The Bubble Lounge has a consistently pretty crowd and even in this economy is packed with people…" read more »
91 reviews for Brandy Library
Review Highlights
When in NYC, I make it a point to stop in. I have always had great, non-pretentious and easy going service. They know their spirits and food in great deal. I like that - they should - and there's a lot to know about at the Brandy Library. It's knowledge not pretense.
I go there for the spirits selection. They are strongest in brandy (!), armagnac and calvados.
(I don't care for scotch, but the list for that is long). I've never had a cocktail.
When I've been there, they've always poured a taste of something to see if it's what I was looking for.
The food always surprises me - everything from small apps to some bistro fare and reasonably priced - particularly given that you can spend a *lot* on spirits.
I've never been disappointed. I've never been here when it's packed though. Typically on a weekday and relatively early - before dinner or for dinner when caught in the rain!
If you go here, you have to be comfortable with what it is.
It's a relaxed "over-stuffed" comfortable place to go with a colleague.
If you're looking for a more "lively" place to have a great cocktail and people watch, try Freemans.
You don't have to spend a lot here to find a really nice spirit.
I went from liking this place and referring people to it based on being treated extremely poorly by the manager/host. I have never left a place so upset and embarrassed.
This place is pretty and the Brandy is good, but I'll never be back and I won't be recommending it to my friends any longer.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
9/28/2008
I think it's safe to say this place is pretentious and I think it's safe to say I like it.
Great… Read more »
Summary:
This place is for adults, they should learn to act like one themselves. Actual 'upscale' or 'nice' places are where people are adults and communicate directly and clearly.
Places like Brandy Library are that group that 'try hard' to be upscale and substitute good service with eye rolling, curtness and tepid greetings in a ruse of 'class'.
Story:
Our group became 7 people, up from our reservation of 4. They accommodated the 5th but when two more showed up the host about lost his marbles with us. In front of the 5 with the 2 standing in tow he didn't inform us of our party size violation INSTEAD he complained about how we only had a reservation for 4 and then another one showed up and then more and we can't all sit together b/c there isn't room...okay, it took me a second but then I realized he was informing us of a violation. What a rude way to do so I thought. I said, "Can we have 3 minutes to sort this out." He left.
Three moved to sit at the bar where there was say, 5 seats open. He zoomed over to say "no, now you move back and forth back and forth" as he waved his arms. They hadn't even taken a seat, what he was trying to say was that there is a concern about us all meandering around and making this a "bar" which I respect that this not be a 'bar'.
The three said we won't do that. We have our purses and coats...during his back and forth tirade, to no avail, with no place to sit they were essentially ejected.
It is amazing to me that a entirely 30 somethings group that was quiet but ordering appetizers and sampling brandy with a helpful waiter could be treated so rudely by the host.
This is more 'library' than 'brandy'. I can't in good conscience return. (this was my second visit, the first was with a party of 5) I do see this as a quiet place for a small group. Be prepared to be accosted if you in violation of their policies.
Since we had not violated any policies until we had more guests arrive, I believe that common courtesy would have been to inform us of the violation of conduct, not to bitch and wave your arms like a child.
If you want an old, "rich mahogany," atmosphere this is the place for you! However, beware of the extremely arrogant bartender. I honestly heard him say to one of his coworkers, "It doesn't hurt . . . To be this good at my job." Eh hem. Well then.
Alas, their 'taster' menu is fantastic. An awesome place to hang out and feel like you are in a club room, smoking jackets not completely necessary.
Possibly the most extensive collection of brandy to be found in the city. It was certainly the most extensive I've ever seen.
If you're like me, most likely you'll have no idea what to order, but that's why they have knowledgeable bartenders staffing the bar: just tell them what flavors you're looking for and they'll bring you the right bottle our of the hundreds they have lining the shelves.
And then there's the best part: They have tastings from 5-8 PM every Saturday!
dark wood. deep red leather seats. dim lighting. cigars, and an extensive scotch/whiskey collection. no need to mingle. no unnecessary noise. pure relaxation & sheer enjoyment while puffing on and drinking some of the finest that life has to offer. i feel more relaxed just writing about it.
O, Brandy Library, how do I love thee.....
My husband and I really like well crafted cocktails that involve obscure ingredients. And brown liquors. And housemade mixers. We like to drink these seated in the comfort of leather club chairs, surrounded by the amber glow of back lit rare liquor bottles in the hushed elegance of quiet jazz and the civility of other adults who wear neither baseball hats or anything that says "juicy" across the ass.
"Dude!" you say, "I like all that shit too!" Or, you might just think you do. This review is being written after an awkward first date I recently witnessed. To avoid future disasters:
Bottom line - if you only drink vodka, this place is not for you. If you require diet coke, diet sprite or diet tonic water, this place is not for you. First date? Probably not for you (if only because there could be a strong potential douche factor if one or both of you answers yes to the above questions. Large groups, no. Lightweights, no (these are STRONG cocktails, people). And please, no loud talkers! This is a library.
The service is impeccable, smart and helpful, but never condescending. The menu is grouped by liquor, but if you don't know your scotches or cognacs, never fear, there are plenty of mixed drinks, both standards and new creations, including a seasonal list (last week I had something with figs!). It is a great place to try new things. Ask questions - they are more than willing to make suggestions if the menu looks like greek to you
So dress up, voice down and mind open. You will love this place too. Like, for realz, dude.
I like the fact that the Brandy Library restricts the minimum entry age to 25. I don't like drinking with children under that age. I commend them for having AND enforcing the rules that should be common practice among members of polite society. I really appreciate that there is NO standing at the bar. I am tired of being in bars and getting bumped into by 20-somethings trying to buy a drink. In short, when you're in the Brandy Library... Life is GOOD!
I attended the Precious and Rare Scotch Spirit School. It was a bit expensive at $120.00, but after the evening was over, I can say that it was worth every penny!
Our scotch instructor was the respected Ethan R. Kelley who showed us a wonderful evening as he guided us through the wide variety of wonderful (and expensive) scotches. Throughout the evening, we were literally almost stuffed with Artisanal cheese, chocolates, and freshly baked dors d'œuvres.
I can't do justice to the information that we were given about the scotch we sampled. I'll just say it was a tasting experience you'll not find elsewhere.
At the end of the evening, we were given a nice little gift bag. All in all, it was well worth the $120.00.
I felt like I was in one of the episodes of Mad Men when I was here. All I needed was a cigarette, haha. We had dinner in the neighborhood at Locanda Verde, so after dinner we decided to try this place. I'm never a whiskey girl, but I'm so glad I came here. The place is very intimate and quiet. There is jazz playing in the background. The space is not big, but it's perfect for dates - there are many small tables good for couples. It does feel like a library with multiple shelves of whiskey standing against the wall. Service is very attentive. Love the bartender outfits - very 60s look. :)
We sat at the bar. I tried the mustang which is an orange color looking liquor. It tastes very fruity which I could barely taste the strong, bold whiskey. The next drink I had was the peach and creme. The name sounded very pure and creamy, yet in fact it's reallyyy strong. I didnt end up finishing it. I guess I will stick with my Mustang.
Oh btw, on our way out, all the ladies get a take away party pressie which is a nicely boxed butter cookies! Tastes like heaven!
I really like this place for several reasons. First of all, i think it is neat that their decor resembles a library, only instead of the books you will find various types of brandy and whiskey. They also have a large selection of wines and other alcoholic beverages to ensure that you sample your liquor in socially acceptable quantities. Secondly, I like its atmosphere for the non-pretentious crowd, a dark lit room, and the fact that you can actually carry a conversation without having to scream into anyone's ear. And lastly, i like their little burgers. :)
p.s. staff is accommodating and informative
SHUT THE FRONT DOOR, why have I not reviewed this place?!!?!?!!?
Breath breath paper bag breath phewwwwwww! Okay done hyperventilating.
Brandy Library is one of those fabulous, fantastic, gives-you-that-tingly-excited-feeling places that I love so much. Great drinks? Check. Awesome appetizers? Check (don't miss the gougeres, or the tarte provincale). Party-pooping banker crowd? Check. LEATHER-BOUND box of butter cookies for the ladies on the way out? Check!!!
What's not to love about Brandy Library? Just remember to keep your voices down, folks.
I'm glad I spent 7 hours here because my review from 5pm would have been very different. During after-work hours the bar is frequented by wall street men and madison avenue girls. The environment is a little hotel bar-y although the 2 waiters per person service may be worth it. Later in the evening the bar filled up with 20-30somethings that livened up the atmosphere. Throughout my many hours here the waitress was kind enough to bring rounds of food complimentary from the kitchen. The decor is incredible and the service is reminiscent of servant-land in India (it's wrong, but you know what I mean. And love it). Definitely a great place to wow a date!
Overall (Appetizers and drinks): Definite must hit for any whisky, brandy, or scotch aficionado. The drink tomb is quite extensive. The appetizers are very good. Perhaps the only downside is the price, though this place is deinitely worth the stop.
I would have given more stars if the hostess guy hadn't been such a dick to my date. The food was good, I tried the mac and cheese with foie gras, and a nice cheese plate with 5 different cheeses. Since it's called the Brandy Library, I decided to try a brandy. I do not drink brandy, so I didn't know what to choose. The book they give you is a bit overwhelming, but you can tell that if you're going to have a specific poison, this is the place that has it. The waitress was helpful in helping me pick something, and I did like it. The bar area looks like a library, but on the shelves it is all alcohol, and this surrounds the whole room. The bartender was nice, and the place has a great vibe to it. I can see this being a place to go have after work drinks, or business drinks, more than it is a place to take a date.
Again, I think it would be better if the guy hadn't been such an asshole.
This is a fun place. They have almost every kind of whisky, brandy, vodka you can ask for. Good spot to hang with a small group of people looking or a relaxed evening of conversation, drink, and a cigar.
I had a flight of the smoky whiskey which was superb. We also had a few hors d'oeuvres like the croque-monsieur and the mac & foie. Definitely try them if you want a nibble.
The scene is low key and service is very attentive. Looking forward to the next visit.
Exquisite. This upscale lounge feels very "classic Manhattan." Attentive servers and hostess, intimate seating options, a ridiculously long list of signature cocktails, liquor, beer, and wine (a signature cocktail will throw you back @ $15 a pop). Don't come here in a t-shirt and jeans. The music was classic jazz (at the right volume!), the lighting was dim, the gruyere cheese puffs fantastic.
all pretense. management and staff awkwardly try to impose their warped sense of sophistication on their clientele....
we got comments that we were being too loud (we were not), that our group (of 9) was too big for the table (which was perhaps a tight squeeze, but sufficiently large), that it was against policy to split the party into two (despite the bar being nearly empty). staff constantly hovering around us. just a bizarre preoccupation with their clientele.
all of this while we endured overly studied pours of bourbon, precisely measured (waiter would stoop down so he could view the level of liquid in the glass at eye level)... slow service and assured comments like, "it is worth the wait". Felt like saying "I'm not looking for a ridiculously special vodka soda here - save the pomp and circumstance because it's annoying"
by way of context, was with a group of ivy league professionals, well dressed, well behaved and, with the possible exception of myself, very sophisticated...
I don't know what people expect when they go to a place called "Brandy Library," but I feel like it lived up to my expectations just fine: low, ambient lighting; jazz playing at just the right volume; shelves upon shelves of spirits; and a wholly overwhelming menu. This is one classy place, I says to myself.
Despite the $150-per-2oz-pours dotting the menu, the food is actually reasonably priced. I came with a full belly, but my partners ordered the cheese plate and steak tartare and made short work of both. The presentation (especially the table-side prep of the tartare) was pretty impressive.
I like brandy, but I really don't know my ass from my elbow when it comes to recognizing the "good stuff"; I liked the $15 calvados more than the $30 armagnac! In any case, this is a good place to learn stuff like that--stuff like, I have less refined taste, and that's a-ok with me. But really, the selection is mind-boggling, and if you want to learn anything down to the tiniest details about brandies and whiskeys/whiskies, these people know their stuff.
A four-star experience, to be sure, but about the extra docked star: Why, when I've already walked in and sat down, in my work suit, while some scrub with sneakers and jeans sits a couple tables down, do you have to make me feel like an immature turd by saying, "You can stay, of course, but just so you know, our normal policy is to not allow anyone under 25 in"? (I'm 23.) Thanks for letting me know, Paco. Sorry I sleazed up the joint. Sheesh.
TERRIBLE MANAGEMENT. Should be fired. Never experienced such mismanagement in my 10 years here in city. Reaally, really bad. Much better exclusive places in the city. Don't bother.
The shelves of this library are lined not with books but bottles of spirits. If you aren't a brandy drinker, fear not: the encyclopedic drink menu has just about anything to please anyone. Low, warm lighting, soft jazz, over-sized leather chairs and a fireplace make for a relaxed atmosphere. But make no mistake about it, this is a classy place and the clientele is pretty dressy too. Think business attire over jeans and tee shirts. I definitely would not have worn flip flops on my most recent visit to Brandy Library, had it not happened spur of the moment with no time to change my shoes. Service here is attentive and the extras are really nice. The last time I was here we were presented with complimentary gougeres and a sampling of sweets. I've also received miniature boxes of Brandy Library's shortbread upon my exit. Definitely one of the nicest lounges in Tribeca.
When it comes to alcohol, I drink like a 60-year-old man. I sip my cognac like a 60-year-old man, smoke my cigars like a 60-year-old man and enjoy my peace and quiet like a 60-year-old man. So, obviously, I love the Brandy Library.
Venue:
I am an Old World girl. My goal in life is to have a two-story, library office with ladders and hard bound books. I want a huge globe centerpiece, a mahogany desk, gold hourglass, hollywood tripod lights and a large burgundy leather chair in the corner. To me, that is all I would need to keep me happy. That, and an endless supply of Remy Martin.
Keep you Courvoisier, Hennessy and Martell, I want my Remy VSOP. The fantastic blokes at the Brandy Library know just how I like it: slightly above room temperature, in a large sniffer, and a couple of books, please. The flutter about in their suits and suspenders through leather seats and velvet settees in the amber and gold hue of bottles backlit. The bar is the library, and the library is on display.
Signed bottles and old pamphlets are shown off in glass cabinets as the endless supply of cognac, whiskey, bourbons and rums are organized and categorized in according to the library's own Dewy Decimal System. Captured inside the goldenrod shower of the Library, jazz and big band flow through the air as quiet conversations are made over candles and good wood tables.
A fireplace roars and crackles to keep your fingers warm while the brandy warms you inside out. It's a miraculous place, of a charm not often found outside of past centuries in England save for the Brideshead Revisted here and Horatio Hornblower there. It takes you back to an era where women didn't know what they were drinking and cognac was a man's drink.
And so I am a 60-year-old man, returned home and happy. So stay out if you don't want to piss me off, or just stay quiet.
Food:
They have it, but it's a Brandy library, you go for the drinks.
I am totally unqualified to write this review, having had 3 mixed drinks at Brandy Library rather than the logical choice. But they did all contain brown water in some capacity! Really this night was basically an excuse for some business associates to use me as a front on expense accounts & satisfy their needs for $68 glasses of Scotch. Cool by me, I'll play the patsy.
Service is a little slow, but so precise once items actually arrive - multiple rearranging of dishes on the tables, constant replacement of coasters, a new water glass with every refill. They also need to get some more of those encyclopedic menus. Then again, the descriptions are so captivating, I became quite anti-social when looking for a drink, getting absorbed in 'reading' for long stretches of time, so maybe they know what they're doing by only leaving one per every 2 tables or so.
Food was pretty good too, as far as satisfying basic needs to chew on things while drinking out of snifters. We had sliders (blah), tuna tartare (too large chunks), proscuitto wrapped figs (funky tasting in a not good way), gougeres (awesome), lamb in blankets (super awesome).
I loved my 3 variations on dark & stormies. I had one with scotch, one with cognac & one traditional with rum.
Left feeling so happy & classy.
I realize I've been going to wayyyy too many schmancy places lately than my wallet is happy with.. Regardless, I will be the happiest of paupers if Brandy Library is where I keep squandering my money.
If I am to be a drunk, I shall do so classily.
What body language do you strike to make sure no one thinks you're having an affair?
Ladies, figure it out. And then order some Rittenhouse Rye--or better yet, the American Spirits whiskey, bourbon, and rye flight. Go crazy on some of the single malts.
And, sure, you're not having an affair. But let him pay the bill anyway. Trust me.
I think I understand what is going on at the Brandy Library, and why I read so many horrific reviews and scary tales of the 'evil host'. People, if you read the menu, you will see the front page is a 'house rules' page of sorts (odd I suppose, but to each its own). If you don't like it , then go elsewhere. They explain the philosophy of the establishment. They do not want a loud den for noisy bankers, hipsters, lawyers, bums, fashion execs. or drunk loons. They do not discriminate and will kick you out if you do not comply. End of story. I, for one, can appreciate this. They also don't welcome large groups over 7. They want you to behave yourselves, so all the whiners complaining about getting kicked out for having 11 of your friends show up- you just chose the wrong venue and didn't do your research.
It's a quiet room in dark, amber tones. It very much has a boutique hotel vibe. Hundreds of scotch/whiskey bottles line the shelves around the room. They also have nice selections of wines, cocktails, beer and snacks. The host even brought us a pan of complimentary cheese puffs from the kitchen, which were really tasty. Keep in mind, this is not a cheap spot. The whiskeys range from 14 and up and a glass of wine will run you about 13. It's not for hooligans, loud mouths or large groups and I probably wouldn't have my birthday party here. It's not that kind of spot. I get what they are trying to do at Brandy Library, and I like it.
great space with nice big fat leather chairs, great selection of cognacs and such, and the gougeiers are amazing, but slightly strange but hugely knowledgeable staff. Just expect more for a $40 2 oz pour.
If you're a fine liquor/spirits aficionado, Brandy Library is your dream room in the shape of a bar. Their drink menu is literally a book. I spent 20 minutes just going through pages and pages of drink options.
Clientele was late 20s to 40s/50s on the evening I went. Mostly suit guys and a few couples on a date. It's a good place to take your business associates or your date.
Fine liquors, fantastic cocktails, delicious lounge food, mmm, mmm, mmm. Nice ambiance, good prices, awesome service/staff (aka "Librarians" here), comfy chairs. Love it.
I recommend their Gin Gin Mule, if you like Ginger cocktails.
Their wine list is really small so if you're a wine drinker, I'd go elsewhere. I'm not positive but I think they also have cigars if you're into that.
I expect the entrance of other side of the Kingdom (shortly down the street from the Beatific Vision of Our Lord) to have a foyer that looks just like the Brandy Library. Wow. What a classy, relaxing, amazing place. Ambiance, service...the whole shebang.
Our waiter was knowledgeable on their product. If you're not sure what you want (and it's easy because the walls are packed with liquid wonder), they'll find something for you that perfectly tickles your fancy.
One of my favourite things to look for were the "well drink" level of bev. If you want Johnny Red (for whatever obscene reason), it's there. The waiter should be obliged to smack some sense into you if you dare to order such nonsense. Instead, think of higher things. You can and will find something incredible to sip and enjoy.
Well crafted food, drinks, and decor. For the "real man" in you.
NO VODKA here.
I love this place!!! Feels like you're in an old fashioned semi-stodgy but clean/modern library. Except instead of books they have one of the largest collections of brandy, burbon, gin, and spirits in NYC. Beautiful second floor downstairs (great for private events), beautiful fireplace, and a small private room (that feels like you're in a cabin on a boat). Excellent food macaroni and foie gras is definitely on the must try list if you like foie gras. I love the Prosciutto-wrapped figs, and every dessert on the menu.
Definitely a place you would prefer to be well dressed in. Perfect for a group, business associates, young, older etc will all feel comfortable here.
Date Rating: 8
Pick up Scale: 2
Strong Suggestion: Call ahead if you're a larger group. Definitely a great place for a small event or party.
If you are a word nerd, brandy buff, or jazz junkie (ok, i know 'junkie' sounds a little crass in this sentence, but I'm going for alliteration here people! cut me some slack), you must visit this place.
The concept of Brandy Library is downright unique to NYC, reading the menu is entertaining in itself, and the music creates a very relaxing ambiance. The waitstaff is incredibly polite and the seating arrangements are perfect for a date or group of friends.
Cozy, romantic, and sophisticated all in one. Truly a Tribeca treasure. (yay! there's that alliteration)
went after macao for a after dinner drink on a sunday night, it must have been at least 80 degrees in there. So hot we had to leave before we even ordered our first drink.
Yuck.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
11/26/2008
Came last Friday for after dinner drinks. It was mostly empty at first (had just finished a private… Read more »
Let me first start by saying I hate pretense. And also that my review is based on the overall experience. The scotch is very good, and I like the decor, and I can see what kind of atmosphere and vibe this place is trying to achieve. Perhaps it's my fault since my group totally wasn't comporting with the aims of the place.
My friend made reservations for 8 people. When I got there, I was the 11th and the guy was upset when I told him what party I was joining. Then he reprimanded the group and said, "no more after her." We were gracious because apparently, he'd been giving my friends a problem the entire night. The service was attentive, but every so often, we'd get shushed and told that we're making too much noise. Even when we were the ONLY group in the room (downstairs). At one point, a few of us stand because a few friends are leaving, and after they've left we remain standing to stretch. They told us to sit down.
I was annoyed that they were so controlling the entire evening. Like I said, I'm reasonable, and I understand the image the place is trying to portray, but DO THEY NOT APPRECIATE THAT WE ARE SPENDING MONEY DURING THE RECESSION?! Especially when there is no one else there, it's just baffling that you'd be such douches.
Girls take note - this is a place to impress your man - and it doesn't involve half-naked women and bunched up dollar bills.
I love this place - especially that it's within walking distance from the j-o-b. It's nice to have a lovely cocktail here, where it's quiet and completely unpretentious. I can't complain about one thing here. It's dark, cozy, romantic and comfortable. Toss an extensive menu of cocktails and spirits and I'm sold!
If I could get 10 stars I would. This place is totally awesome! I did tasting flights of 6 different american whiskies and 6 different rums, and was very impressed with both. Nice selection of wines and cognacs as well, so there is definitely something for everybody in your party. The tasting prices are reasonable, as are the food prices. Food is solid, I had the Mac & Foie, which I thought was a great combination.
I'm told there are free tasting events put on by distributors as well as live jazz on some nights. I will definitely be coming back.
I love that I sit at the bar by myself and I ask for a JTS Brown and you never bat an eye at me even though, being 10 P.M, I pull out a book and start reading while everyone else is socializing and giving each other the "come hither" eye.
Thank you for not my judging my choice of bourbon, I may not be a Hustler but I might as well be to you.
Don't change a thing Brandy, you make my night.
Ok, so this isn't the kind of place I can afford to hang out in every day, but if you're looking for that really obscure glass of single-malt scotch, rye, or armagnac, this is the place to come. Or if you're thinking of investing in a top-dollar bottle of whisky, maybe you should come try a glass here first.
The room is dark and cozy, with big leather chairs and lots of wood. The walls are lined with bookshelves full of Scotch and brandy (hence the name). The service is impeccable, the kind of place where if you move tables someone appears with a silver tray to move your glass for you. They are also pretty good about letting you try a nip of something before you commit to a whole glass. They serve food, but I wouldn't want to ruin my palate with all this good booze around.
When I die, I hope they bury me here. I've been here quite a few times (and I admit the service is not always superb), but when the place is doing it right for me, it is really doing it right. If you have a decent budget, ask for Ethan (accept no substitutes -- unless you have to ;) and let him lead you on a tour of whatever alcohol suits your fancy.
If you like anything about (scotch) whisky, you'll be in heaven at the Brandy Library. You feel like the member of a secret club when you enter, and the service is top of its game. They feature an incredible collection of distilled spirits, great drinks and a memorable drinking experience.
I enjoy whisky (responsibly) and follow the industry through Whisky Magazine, the Whisky Bible, WhiskyCast, etc., so we made a point to visit on my trip to NYC.
On our first visit we had the pleasure of meeting with Nathan Kelley and Laerte who spent the better part of an evening with us. We walked through our whisky flights, tasting all of the samples, getting insight and education from the professionals along the way. This was a great experience already, and when I started asking Nathan more questions about his collection the night got even better. He then went on to recommend and treat us to a whisky adventure in sampling I had no idea I'd ever experience.
From what Nathan thought was the best bottle in his collection, through flavor profiles he knew we'd enjoy, we had the rare opportunity to try whiskies we'd never try again, and get an education on nosing whisky, and a great night I'll remember forever.
Service was absolutely perfect =) I couldn't have been more pleased. My first time there last night and I decided to bring my bf there to celebrate his birthday--what better way than over drinks in a nice cozy library wall filled with drinks! I've only mentioned to the waiter that it was his birthday and I didn't want to check in my big gift bag for him to open later on in the evening and he was very accommodating.
I had my Pink Gin--a bit strong for me and he had is Paradox :)
There's a couple of brandy, whiskey, cognacs tasting as well...The book of numerous drinks and food choices was something fun to flip through
We settled with Figs and Pigs...delicious!!
Surprisingly, through the night, we had complimentary cheese puffs from the chef and even later on were surprised with an amazing slice of cheesecake with a lit candle to end a perfect stay there for the birthday boy :)
Now there's attention for you--on the house =) sweet ! no effort on my part...we all know how the tipping went =D
I absolutely love this place! Absolutely great service, amazing decor, and you can't go wrong with their extensive collection of scotch, whiskey, you name it. Staff is super knowledgeable, and I am slowly learning my way into the scotch world here.
Been here many times already, and will continue to come back for many more times to come!


