Library Bar at Fairmont Royal York, Toronto
"A room without books is like a body without a soul"
- Cicero
Menus
A timeless meeting place that remains the undercurrent of Toronto's metropolitan character, Library Bar returns as the famed cocktail den cloaked beyond a secret corner of the illustrious Fairmont Royal York hotel.
Throughout the bar's evolution as the city's coveted martini institution, Library Bar encapsulates the fabled legacy as the electric space where such walls can divulge tales from the night we met to the fervent thrill in closing the deal.
Esteemed as Toronto's treasured cocktail den, Library Bar launches a new cocktail menu by award-winning Director of Beverage, James Grant. As an exceptional first for the iconic brand, Grant levies inspiration from a collection of odd and daring to refined ingredients, showcased in themes of Martinis, Masterpieces, Outlaws, Explorers, Auteurs and Classics. Grant's inspiration for the menu is derived from a canon of both literary and film classics, crafting a cocktail experience unlike any ever before seen at the iconic hotel.
Perfecting the bar's signature cocktail, Library Bar collaborated with Niagara-region master distillers to craft expressions tailored especially for the treasured Birdbath Martini. Library Bar proudly introduces QUILL, a one-of-a-kind vodka and gin composed of effervescent botanicals and sustainable ingredients that allow the true natural flavours of the classic martini to shine through. Well-balanced with a full-bodied velvety mouthfeel, citrus, spices and earthy roots craft a complex spirit that is served tableside from a bespoke mixing glass.
Honouring the culinary vision established at the turn of the century in the châteauesque hotels that joined together Canada's burgeoning cities and resort properties set amongst the vast wilderness, Library Bar's Chef Brian Tang takes inspiration from the beloved classic dishes that guests have returned for time and again.
Rich indulgences like Tuscan kale and ricotta cappellacci in porcini cream, east coast oysters, classic Steak Frites served with Bordelaise, and the ever-famous Bay Street Prime Rib Sandwich round out a menu that draws inspiration from our country’s rich and natural culinary canon that is expertly paired with a refined wine list and intriguing cocktails, creating an indulgent and memorable dining experience.
A strong proponent for local and sustainable initiatives, Library Bar partners with Ontario-based farmers and east coast fisheries to forage ingredients that complete the hearty recipes that have defined the flavours of Library Bar for decades.
"There is no love sincerer than the love of food."
- George Bernard Shaw
A place for the fashionable legends of the world to feel right at home.
Personifying the hotel's lineage founded in the roar of the 1920s, a broad stroke Art Deco motif sets the stage for the legacy of vivacious performers who entertained raucous crowds that poured in from the hotel's Imperial Ballroom to dine on lavish nightcaps that spilled into the early morning hours. A vibrant mosaic of fluid marbles, rich leathers of bold primary hues, whimsical velvets, and satin fringe adorn a nuanced canvas decorated with Canadian literature and sixteenth-century renaissance paintings.
A commissioned portrait of George Locke, the City of Toronto’s second Chief Librarian, hangs above the mantelpiece. At the turn of the 20th century, Locke was highly influential in advocating for literacy and transformed Toronto's library system into one of the most respected institutions in North America. Invited to hand-select the books for the original library of Fairmont Royal York, Locke remains an original author in the story of Library Bar.
Press
Canada's 100 Best
Canada's Best Bars 2023
Toronto Life
Over-the-top cocktails are sweeping the city
Honest Cooking
Sip back in time
Canada's 100 Best
A sensorial immersion
Canada's 100 Best
A classic cocktail revival
The Luxury Lifestyle Magazine
A culinary haven
Toronto Star
Man of the evening
Hotelier
Legendary Library Bar returns
Contact Us
Send us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. You can also reach us by phone at +1 416 368 2511. Looking forward to hearing from you.