You won’t believe what’s behind the doors of a secret entrance to this Sydney library: ‘I can’t believe I never knew about this’
- NSW State Library has a rooftop bar
- It has a beautiful view of the city and Sydney Harbour
Barhoppers have discovered a stunning rooftop cocktail bar atop a library in the middle of an Australian capital city.
The Library Bar can be found through a secret side entrance and lift in the State Library of NSW in Sydney’s city centre.
The cozy bar is the perfect place to watch the sun go down while enjoying a cocktail with a 360 degree view of Sydney’s skyline and harbour.
Guests enter through large wooden arched doors and a series of hidden corridors before reaching the elevator that goes up four floors to the secret jewel.
Sydney locals and travelers alike flock to the magical bar, which has an antique-style aesthetic befitting the roots of the historic building.
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Sydneysiders have discovered a secret rooftop bar hidden in a side entrance to the State Library of New South Wales with breathtaking views of the city and harbor
Diners can sit outside on the outdoor deck adorned with twinkling lights and enjoy the panoramic view
Blogger Evelien Langeveld, known as Sydney guide online, documented her visit to the ‘hidden gem’ in an online clamp that has garnered more than 398,000 views.
“This is such a gem and so well hidden we had to ask the library staff for directions,” she said.
‘The Library Bar is a wonderful secret rooftop bar atop Australia’s oldest library.’
While many were familiar with the haunt that has been a favorite lunch spot for library staff since the 1940s, others were shocked that they had no idea it existed.
“Surprise night with the wife is in order,” one man replied, and another viewer wrote, “Oh wow! Will plan a visit soon!’.
‘Discovered this great bar a few weeks ago and now we can’t wait to go back!’ someone else noticed.
While many were familiar with the haunt that has been around since the 1940s, others were shocked that they had no idea it existed
“This is such a gem and so well hidden we had to ask the library staff for directions,” blogger Evelien Langeveld, known as Sydney Guide online, said in an online video
Guests enter through large wooden arched doors and a series of hidden corridors before reaching the elevator that goes up four floors to the secret jewel
‘We loved the atmosphere and to top it off they had a lovely live jazz concert when we visited. Also the staff was absolutely amazing! I can’t wait to go back.’
Diners can sit outside on the outdoor deck adorned with twinkling lights and enjoy the panoramic view.
In cooler weather, the indoor bar offers a more intimate experience with soft seating in a dimly lit area.
There is also a baby grand piano which is often occupied by a pianist playing relaxing jazzy tunes.
The menu pays homage to the library’s history, as well as gourmet spirits, beers and produce sourced from all over New South Wales, from Surry Hill’s Poor Tom gin to Rosebery’s Archie Rose vodka and even the Alto Olives of the Southern Tablelands that make the martinis. garnish.
The Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo is a favorite cocktail that is dedicated and named after David Scott Mitchell, an avid book lover who donated his collection of Australian literature to the State Library in 1907.
The door to the Library Bar is on Hospital Road, to the left of the main entrance.
