Peter Kern Library

We found this spot and were super excited about the speakeasy vibe. When arriving, we waited in the lobby area for about 5 minutes before someone arrived and let us into the actual bar. We had the code ready and everything, although they did not really use it and just let us through which killed the vibe a bit. Overall though, the ambiance and drinks were both amazing! The service was great as well and our waiter was super sweet and gave us recommendations.

The Peter Kern Library is a great spot for a cocktail before or after dinner. I enjoy the “speakeasy” vibe, in the heart of Downtown Knoxville. From my understanding, they frequently update their menu so you can always try something new each visit.

Overall, the experience was pleasant, though I don’t quite share the enthusiasm surrounding this location. The concept—receiving a code and finding the red light in an alley—sets an exciting tone. I had looked forward to knocking for entry, but the door was unmanned and already open, which diminished the intrigue slightly. The hostess was polite and seated us promptly. The atmosphere was warm, casual, and true to a speakeasy, with closely shared booth seating. The drink menu was thoughtfully curated, offering a wide range of unique options. Unfortunately, service fell short. We intended to enjoy a few rounds before our reservation at Vida but managed only one due to a long wait. Despite available tables, our server avoided eye contact and was slow to return. When she did, service was polite but lacked attentiveness. The cocktails themselves were expertly made and enjoyable. While our visit was underwhelming, I’d consider returning for a second chance.

This is a fun speakeasy with great craft cocktails.. I enjoyed the Aslan: 1950, plus they have an extended list of great slippers to try. The staff was very friendly and fun. Put this on your list when in Knoxville Downtown.

Full disclosure, we did not try the food here. This speakeasy is pretty dope. The sliding door of the wall of art and the entrance is pretty neat. The cocktails were very unique and delicious along with a great whiskey selection. The staff was very nice and attentive and the decor of the place is very unique and cool. The place is very lively but not too noisy.

I came here on a date when I first moved to Knoxville, my boyfriend and I each had a couple drinks, I don’t remember the first drinks we ordered, but I do distinctly remember how delicious the espresso martinis were had were. I dream of them. Highly recommend going if you’ve never been. It’s a really chill vibe, for anyone who’s a millennial like we are, the lighting is PERFECT. I’m looking forward to our next visit.

What a great little find in the heart of Knoxville market district. Amazing drinks with a great atmosphere. Comfortable seating, friendly service that is knowledgeable about whiskey. We had a wonderful old fashioned with Forbidden whiskey which was smooth and full of Smokey orange flavor. Must place for a cocktail while in Knoxville

A hidden gem in Knoxville! I’ve been going here for years and always enjoy my experience every time I go. We went this week to celebrate my birthday, and we had the best time! I ordered the Holly Golightly, and it is definitely one of my favorites. Not only are the cocktails great, but the vibe is amazing. My favorite speakeasy in Knoxville!

Peter Kern Library offers a unique and intimate dining experience that seamlessly blends old-world charm with creative mixology. The ambiance is reminiscent of a classic speakeasy, accessible through a discreet entrance that adds a touch of mystery and exclusivity. Cozy and dimly lit, the space is adorned with vintage books and plush leather seating, creating an ideal backdrop for a quiet evening or a chic night out. The menu, though limited, is thoughtfully curated, featuring a selection of inventive cocktails that showcase the bartender's artistry. Each drink is meticulously crafted with unique flavor profiles and high-quality ingredients, ensuring a personalized experience. While Peter Kern Library doesn't serve full meals, its array of small bites and snacks perfectly complements the impressive drink selection. The attentive yet unobtrusive service makes each visit feel special and inviting. Overall, Peter Kern Library is a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts seeking an elegant and sophisticated escape in downtown Knoxville.

I've stopped by this speakeasy bar on several occasions. It's hidden behind a bookshelf of a local hotel and you can also access it from the alley. My wife and I stopped in for an old fashion. We sat at the bar. The bartenders are highly skilled and take their time making you the perfect cocktail. It has a nice dark and traditional environment. If you looking for something interesting to do after dinner, this is a nice spot to check out.

During the weekend of the Tennessee vs. Kentucky game (Go Cats!) as part of a guys' trip. We were really excited about the idea of a hidden, exclusive speakeasy vibe, complete with a password and an alleyway entrance, but unfortunately, the experience fell a little short of expectations. As mentioned in previous reviews, if you're impatient, this place might not be for you. (The wait to get inside, did not effect my rating. I appreciate that they do not take reservations and it's on a first come first serve basis). The vibe is definitely one to chill and hang out, but you'll need to embrace the wait. However, the thrill of finding a speakeasy fizzled quickly. Upon arrival in the alley, we were greeted by a sheet of paper directing us to the Oliver Hotel entrance--a letdown for anyone hoping for a secretive backdoor experience. For a moment, we thought it might be a trick to throw off tourists, but nope, that was the actual entrance (at least that day). Inside the Oliver Hotel, the space exudes contemporary elegance, but the line at the "hidden" door also broke any illusion of secrecy, and not being asked for the password further diminished the concept. Once inside, the atmosphere had potential with its dark and moody setting, but the multiple doors leading in and out allowed bright lights to interrupt the ambiance. Our party of four was seated, and while the staff was friendly, they weren't very attentive. Drinks took a little bit to arrive, but by this time, we found that this place lost it's excitement. The cocktails themselves were good but not "knock-your-socks-off" good. We'd hoped to try more, but because the first round took so long and no one came back to check on us mid-drink, we decided to close our tab and move on. My personal opinion, if there is a hefty line waiting to get inside upon arrival, I'd say it's probably not worth the wait. While I appreciated the concept, the execution left us wanting more of that authentic speakeasy charm. It's a cool place to visit if you're patient and curious, but for us, it wasn't the highlight of the trip.

We visited the Peter Kern Library a couple weeks again on a Friday. We arrived fairly early and went to the back door. FYI - you'll need a code, which my friend had from the bar's Instagram page. Super cool! The speakeasy is pretty small & intimate. It's dark and moody, but feels so luxurious. There's a small bar with 4 or 5 stools. There are also 5 or 6 curved booths, each of which could comfortable seat 5 or maybe 6 people. Our party of 4 ordered drinks, and all were so delicious. We'll definitely visit again!

Super cute bar, very modern and can be loud. The staff was welcoming and friendly. The drinks were amazing. First time coming here. The menu changes often but are able to make drinks from previous menus. The theme always changes. It's inside the Oliver's hotel. On their social media they give you hints to get the passcode (we didn't need it) or you can go to the hotel lobby and get it from there. The drinks were amazing. I highly recommend this place.

Very fun atmosphere!! The drinks are inspired and the vibe is very relaxed and chill. The prices are very fair for the drink. All the employees were very nice. I read a lot of reviews about the harsh dress code. We were nervous as we were not dressed "appropriately" according to the dress code, but we had no issues with this and the other people there were also not. We went in the early evening though, so I'm not sure if that's the difference. I had a great time and I would recommend!

As long as you realize that you're paying for a gimmick, the Peter Kern Library is a fun, offbeat place to enjoy a cocktail. We visited before a show at the Tennessee, lured in by their themed menu highlighting the last of the Broadway season's shows (Beetlejuice). We followed the green light in the alley and waited in line for about 20 minutes before being seated with a pair of strangers in line behind us. That might not appeal to some patrons, but we didn't mind and actually enjoyed our conversation at the booth where they seated us. The speakeasy vibe just wasn't there for us because we weren't asked for a password, and the multiple doors in and out were always in use and counteracted any feel of privacy or seclusion. The waiter, who also ushered us in from the hallway, was a little pushy and seemed to be slightly peeved the whole time we were there. Our bill was brought (without our requesting it) shortly after we ordered, but we waited over 25 minutes for our drinks, almost making us late for our show. When my friend politely inquired how much longer it would be, the waiter told us our drinks were coming but that we could feel free to leave if we needed. He then walked off. A different waitress brought our drinks out a few minutes later (after delivering them to the wrong table first) and apologized for the wait, offering us a pair of complimentary cocktail vouchers (cleverly printed as bookmarks). The bar staff stayed hopping the whole time we were there, but with fewer than 20 people in the whole bar, it was never clear to us why so much was happening back there but no one was getting their drinks. I've been in huge bars that were packed and never had to wait that long for a drink, so I can only imagine that this was an off night for some reason because otherwise this place would not stay in business. The cocktails were cleverly named and inventive, but they weren't "to die for." If not for the intimate, sophisticated atmosphere, nothing would make the $14+ drinks worth it. Overall, we still had fun going and would try again, hoping for better service next time and maybe more of the subversive speakeasy feel.

This place was great. Be sure to go in the alley entrance. You will need to know the password. The drinks were great. The service was excellent. The atmosphere met my high expectation. We ordered a few appetizers and enjoyed the truffles fries and brussel sprouts.

Don't waste your time. We waited outside by the red light (like the instructions say) in a line for half an hour just to find out that the hostess only checks inside of the hotel. The code was never needed. Inside the music is loud rap and it is freezing cold but at least it smelled better than the garbage filled alley. There is a dress code that is not mentioned anywhere before arrival. We waited another half hour at our table and never received drinks. There were 2 bartenders and it is a very small establishment. If you do decide to go, be prepared to spend most of your time waiting.

I could have sworn that I wrote a review for this fun and unique spot. Whoops! This speakeasy is quietly lingering in the depths of the Oliver Hotel, accessed by the nearby alley (look for the red light). I have been here a few times now and twice, there was was an employee "guarding" the door, asking for the password, accessed via their social media. This past time, my visiting friend and I were a bit bummed to have no password required and let ourselves in through the door. Takes away a tad of the mystique and experience, but still a fun spot! Usually, they have seated me and my party, but since it was a weekday evening and not busy, they had us seat ourselves. In the past, we have had to share a seating area with strangers during busy times, but my friend and I had a large, cushy seating area to ourselves this time. I always love the cozy space in dark, rich colors, and the unique, old-timey decor. There is some slightly creepy artwork (if you've been there...you know what I'm talking about. haha!) that gives it creepy, haunted library vibes. The bartenders are like mad scientists who put together magical literary-themed concoctions. Such unique ingredients that it surely takes quite an effort to perfect them. This is the saving grace with the hefty pricetag. Totally worth it for the experience alone. Note that the space is small, no probably not a place to go with a large group or loud friends, but perfect for intimate groups or date night.

I had Peter Kern Library on my list so I was happy when my friend Lindsay suggested we grab a drink there post-event. The unmarked door is hidden in an alley, but we didn't have to give anyone the password and just opened the door. We were told to take a seat anywhere in the cozy spot. The decor is definitely library/literary themed, which was fun. The menu is very unique and I was excited at the different options. I was immediately drawn to the Rick Deckard: gin, lemon, dijon mustard, maple-vanilla syrup. A few others sounded really good too, so I asked the bartender for a recommendation (while also spinning Lindsay's decision maker wheel, genius). He told me the Rick Deckard was really good, so I went for it! It was definitely one of the more unique drinks I've had. The dijon mustard wasn't overpowering and it actually worked well in the drink. I do love dijon mustard though. I was impressed and would definitely visit again in the future. This type of elevated cocktail experience is so fun for a special night out and I'm sure their menu changes frequently.

Great cocktails and cool ambiance at this tucked away college town speakeasy. A great spot for cocktail fans visiting Knoxville.

The ambiance is beautiful inside!! We happened to walk upon this Speakeasy while on a stroll in Downtown Knoxville. The bar is very well decorated and the vibe is perfect for a date night. Not only are the drinks one of a kind but the theme of "library" is well incorporated into each name of the drinks on the menu. The service was a bit slow due to being so busy which is not a surprise but the server was very well versed in each drink and was able to convey it to us. I also love that you don't have to stay at the hotel to experience this speakeasy!! Overall, a must try if you're ever in Knoxville!

Ambiance was pretty good. Paid $42 for 2 espresso martinis. Coming from NY and I was still shocked at these prices. Martinis were mediocre.

Pretty tame on a Tuesday around 7. I parked in the Market St Garage, it's right next door. Find the monthly password (a four digit #) on their Facebook at the end of the post. KNOCK on the door with the red light, there is no bell. You have 90 minutes and food comes from the hotel restaurant. As I came in, a party of 8 was trying to assemble. I could overhear the bartenders complaining. It's just a small spot to seat 8 (they were hanging off), and they all wanted food (no table room), and they were loud. They also ordered dumb drinks. So, don't bring your party of 8, ok? The booths fit no more than 6 comfortably. Drinks didn't take long and were good. Prices were pretty standard for a high end cocktail bar although some might complain because it's Knoxville. But I know my cocktails and these were good. No baseball caps, dress like you're leaving your house because they enforce it (more places should). I'm so tired of yoga pants, sweat pants and flip flops.

There's something intriguing about a Speakeasy. However, this one in particular, located inside the Oliver Hotel is very small, but quaint. The look and feel of the library is unique. A little birdie whispered in my ear: They make the best "Old Fashioned" on this side of town. I can't attest to that - - I'm the wine lover! I found the drinks to be quite expensive and the service to be rather slow. Albeit, the mixologist at the bar did put on a great performance with their flaming drinks! Upon entry, you're told there's an allotment of 90 mins, it took the server awhile to approach, then an additional 15mins for drinks to arrive (all while the clock was ticking!) Bring your patience and your wallet.

Very chill place - go to the alley around the corner of the hotel to the red light. I got there early enough that the hotel staff showed me the sliding door next to the reception (in picture). It opens up right next to the bar so everyone looked. Great knowledgeable staff. Really like this place!

A really fascinating bar, with great staff and delicious drinks. It's easy to linger here for a while, but I could see it getting overwhelming if it's a crowded night. It was loud the night we were there even though it was very quiet that night. I can't imagine the noise level if every table had been filled. Still, I would like to get back to see another theme (there were embracing Wicked when I was there). Our group had both cocktails and mocktails and everyone was thrilled with the different choices on the menu and the drinks that ultimately arrived. I hope I'll get back to Knoxville soon so I can go back.

This was the best overall bar we went to in a weekend of just bar hopping around Knoxville. The most innovative, interesting, and delicious drinks all around. It's a speakeasy in a hotel that really commits to the bit which is great. Smaller parties will be seated with other folks but we had 6 and got there fairly early in the night with a full day of day drinking in. Went for the Becky sharp and really had some great flavors and notes in it. We also did the violet baudelaire, Rick deckard, green point and the cheese board. The star of the show there was really the Rick deckard. I don't know how they made that Dijon taste so good without blowing out your sinuses but they did it. The vibes were really good, the bar was really well done and overall just a great experience and drinks 5/5 would recommend to a friend!

Stopped by Peter Kern Library to have drinks before dinner. Logistics - parking is very limited so leave extra time to find yourself a spot on the street. The Library is located inside the Oliver Hotel behind a sliding door right passed the reception desk. Space is smaller, so there may be a wait when it is busy. Menu is broken down into Favorites, Television Guide and Classics. Food is available from 4-9pm. The drinks were good, but the service was extremely slow even though there were only 4 tables occupied. I would likely go back when I am in Knoxville again.

Came here with my fiancé, and the whole experience was incredible. From using the "secret" entrance to sitting at the bar and feeling like I was in a genuine old-timey speakeasy. The staff are also experts at what they do, I was shocked that our one bartender had only been there a year, because they were crafting drinks like they'd been there from the beginning. Every staff member knew the cocktail menu from memory and answered any questions we had. Absolutely delicious drinks, too! I had possible the best Moscow mule I've had in a while, and my fiancé had the Jack Ryan and was obsessed. If you're from out of town, this is the place to check out while you're here.

On a scale of documentaries to romances, Peter Kern Library is the haunting of Oscar Wilde. A secret back entrance with a password set the mood immediately. We were ushered through a hallway into the most charming speakeasy. I felt like I had been transported to a time before televisions and phones. If you're ever in Knoxville, this is a must. This is the only way I want to drink alcohol. We were there around 5:30pm on a week night.

Wait is a bit too long to get in on the weekend but otherwise the drinks were excellent. Also, would've given more of a speakeasy vibe if the lights had been turned down a tad lower.

This is a place to go for true, classic, amazing cocktails! Be patient as it does take time for you to get your stick but it's worth the wait.

This place is awesome , heard rumor of it, stumbled across the light and knocked, we were allowed in right of way , the drinks are phenomenal . The bartenders are extremely talented and the room was one of a kind. You did not hear it from me but look for the red light in the alley .

This is a "hidden" speakeasy in Market Square that has a secret entrance off a back alley and a code to get through the door. It's a small place with community seating and a 90 minute time limit for tables. They serve wonderful craft cocktails and have attentive staff. This is a fun place to go for a drink after a show. I like to head there early so there isn't a wait.

I'm completely over the high dollar cocktail bars, in general. We have too many in Nashville, and not enough offer value for what you spend. I did not have high hopes for this place, especially after the wait to get it. That usually means a see-and-be-seen establishment in my experience. I was wrong. The Rick Deckard is the best cocktail I've ever had. I'd wait another hour to get it again. I tried it because the ingredients didn't sound like they'd go together, but it turned out to be a creative and original drink. So delicious! The place is very small, which is why you will probably have to wait. The doorman was good about telling us to walk around and have a drink elsewhere, and that he'd keep an eye out for us when we got back. This place is truly worthy of five stars, and I'll definitely come back next time I'm in Knoxville.

My sister had told me of this speakeasy in market square and I knew I had to come! This is the perfect place to go on a date night or girl's night out for a place to enjoy some complex and delicious cocktails, some food and a cozy place to sit and chat while feeling like you're in a fancy basement study with a fully stocked bar. My husband looked up where it is (in the alley behind the Oliver hotel) with the red light outside. He also looked up the password on their Facebook page but sadly, we were not asked for it. Then, we were escorted into a hallway and then into the bar room. There are only a few seats at the bar and 5 booths/couches with little tables--so I would suggest to come at a slower time of the week/weekend or ask about reservations. My husband and I came later in the evening..around 10:30/11 and there were a fair number of people there, but there was a large booth available. We did end up needing to share the other side of our booth/couch with another couple that came a little later, but we didn't mind at all since there was still plenty of room for both our parties to not feel intruded upon and we didn't need all that space anyway :) Our waiter was very kind and gave us our menus and answered any questions we had. I was torn between ordering the Violet Baudelaire and the Becky Sharp. Our waiter explained the drinks to me and said the VB was more sweet where the BS was more tart. So that helped me greatly to decide which drink I would like more! I ordered the Becky Sharp and I was glad I did. It is tart from the berries but I could taste the basil pretty strongly; which I enjoyed because I love basil and the herb tastes! My husband ordered the Librarian's Reading Recommendation which is basically like their cocktail of the night. When we went, it was a tequila base drink with grapefruit and dill...It was called a Horacio...something. Either way, it sounded like their version of a margarita...but a very herbal and complex margarita. It's hard to explain the level of flavor profiles of these drinks but these are NOT your run of the mill cocktails. These are some of the best and most interesting drinks I've had. So when you're deciding where to go on an evening out, come here!

Secret society alert. This was a fun adventure. Get the password, find the red light in the dark alley. Knock on the door, and they slide open a window and ask for the password and how many in your party. So prohibition era vibes. This is a very intimate bar and also very pricey (expect $30-40 for two drinks) This isn't an everyday I want to drink after work kind of place. Maybe 20 people will fit inside. The cocktails are crafted with care and the service is excellent.

Excellent service and incredible atmosphere. Some of the finest bourbon selections I've ever seen.

Great little find! I firmly recommend it if you are town. Go down the alley beside the hotel, and it is at the door with the red light above it.

The ambiance here is amazing! It doesn't get better. The drinks were average. I wish I would gotten more traditional drinks. Very cozy - you share booths with other people/ they fill booths.

I grew up a mile from the Kern's Bakery, but have always had an affinity for Libraries. Peter's Library is among the best.

Easily my favorite place I've gone to since moving to the Knox area. It's a little dark and mysterious - not only do you have to find the back door entrance in a dark alley, but you actually have to know the password to get in. After you are taken from a dingy, unassuming hallway, you're brought into a sophisticated and intimate speakeasy, adorned in taxidermy, vintage artwork and books, candlelight, and a smoldering fireplace. Service was great, cocktails were top notch. I will absolutely be back.

Cool atmosphere and super personal service. Drinks were good and definitely strong. Small space with probably 9 tables and a small bar. Knocked off a star because the website doesn't state that collared shirts are required but we were turned away because my boyfriend didn't have one. After a quick change, we were allowed in. 90 minute limit. Cocktails are about $14 each.

This establishment is the most speakeasy-esque I have ever been to. A local friend took us here and therefore I would be unable to tell you how to find it. The password is on their social media, and funnily enough, it was "Old Cuban" which of course made sense because Miami was in the house ;). They offer actual mixologists as bartenders which completely made my night as I was able to order my favorite drink, a French 75. Unfortunately, given the prior rambunctious indulgence of libations, I cannot for the life of me remember the name of the other drinks we had BUT I can assure you they were delicious and you should definitely order them. I believe there is a time limit of 30/45 minutes since the location is cozy and intimate, others have to wait in line to even get in. We enjoyed our drinks and a charcuterie board and moved on to the next one. This spot was by far our favorite of the evening.

Love this place. Service is great. The drinks are great. Vibe is also great. Worth the price. Also brunch at The Oliver restaurant is amazing and so many ppl aren't aware! It's a go-to brunch spot for sure.

The entire vibe was great!!! Having to track down the password and the secret entrance was fun, like a scavenger hunt!!! Great selection of spirits!

Attempted to stop in for a few drinks but there was a wait. Went to grab a round at another bar and then returned. We had perfect timing and were able to snag a table. Beware...you must have the password upon arrival. It can be found on their social media outlets. The waitress greeted us immediately. My husband ordered an old fashioned and I ordered an amaretto sour. Both drinks were delicious. The location is so cool but it is extremely small-- only 7 tables. If you need to wait, please do so! It is worth the wait.

My wife and I stopped by for a drink on Valentines Day, on our way to the Bijou. Seating is limited and hotel guests get first dibs, but being a Monday, we had no trouble getting in. Also, because of the limited seating, you are asked to spend no more than 90 minutes inside. It is a very cool, historic little lounge with a very small bar. It's dark, "leathery" and romantic. It was also half empty when we went. We sat at the bar and had a drink (my wife, a Cabernet, me, a Jefferson's Reserve on the rocks). The real show was at the bar watching the bar tender make the some truly exotic drinks, or making some bar standards in an exotic and almost dramatic way. Their spirits list is extensive, and they will make any cocktail you can think of. We enjoyed ourselves very much, but for the price, it's a place we would reserve only for special occasions (like Valentines Day).

Always a good vibe. They hold capacity a little more due to Covid. Our waiter actually was the best pet, he was super cordial and pleasant. It's a great place for a true craft cocktail.

Awesome atmosphere. That's the first thing you need to know. I dragged my out-of-town friend down the alley into the unmarked door and she looked a little freaked out. Then into the dark hallway, through another unmarked door into the Library. Then she grinned. The speakeasy/library theme hit a chord and was just what we needed after wandering around in the chaos and heat of Pride and the Farmer's Market. She enjoyed a literary themed cocktail. I had a very nice Manhattan. The bartender/mixologist was really nice and helpful. Prices are a little more "big city" than Knoxville, but otherwise, love it!

Absolute comedy trying to get into the speakeasy at 4pm on a Saturday with a group who have been there before. Go into the alley: OK, the red light is on. Knock; no answer. Knock again. Knock *again.* Go into the hotel lobby, ask what's up. Clerk says they might be busy, go back to the alley and try again. So we do. Knock three times, etc, no answer. Back to the hotel lobby, where we try to go in via the sliding door. Just as we reach it, a bartender comes from behind, opens it, slides through, closes it in our faces. We edge it open. They tell us to go back to the alley. Back to the alley AGAIN because someone really wants to try it. We knock. Another party comes up behind us and knocks too. Finally the grille in the door slides open and the guy on the other side asks from the password. We don't have a password, we say. The lobby is supposed to give it to you, he says. The lobby sent us here, we say. He shrugs and closes the grille. The red "open"!light is still on. If you're over capacity, just say so. Don't jerk people around.

Visited this spot a few months ago. Drinks were good and craft. Went back again about a month later and they didn't hv one of the main ingredients but failed to tell us this and attempted to make the drink. It wasn't good, nor was the margarita which is pretty simple. Needless to say I don't hv to try this place again. For the price of the drinks, bartenders should be the best, not just ok.

Tucked away behind an alley with only a red light to find the entrance, the Library is our favorite spot on Market Square. Most nights there is a wait to enter, and depending on the doorman, they may ask for a code to enter or enforce a dress code (they ask for smart casual). Once entering, except for one small table near the bar, expect community seating, dim lighting, and a hum of laughter and chatting amongst patrons. There are no windows, as it is tucked between two downtown businesses. The bartenders here are top notch, with a large selections of liquors and signature drinks. The closest parking is Market Square Garage, the enter the alley behind the Oliver hotel, and look for a red light on the wall. Great for couples or small groups-a must visit!

Love this place every infrequent visit especially an early Sunday evening when we may acquire so much of attention and conversation around the history and more so the concoctions that make this place so special. Love they keep old menu items In their rolodex! They happened to have the ingredients for my all-time favorite and Meg was glad to shake up my "Molly Bloom." Thanks!!

Just once in your life you should check out a Speak Easy. Peter Kern Library is a cool place to visit if you're in Knoxville. Dark, cozy & comfy couches to enjoy incredible craft cocktails with friends. Expect a wait on Wednesday - Saturday. My friend and I were attended to by bartender Leonard who was fantastic up front, but fizzled a bit at the end getting a check. No hard feelings, he was friendly, likable and proved to be accomplished in cocktailology. When reviewing the menu of signature drinks Leonard made it clear he could make items off the menu too! They were quite slammed with only two staff when departing. My drink a Del La Vega / Reposado Tequila, lime juice, Agave, Cynar, jalapeño, Mezcal. The recommendation was off unfortunately since it was too spicy for my taste. However, the complex construction of the drink was a marvel. With a sip through the straw I could taste the layers. Then later mixing it was like a new drink. The "Library" entrance is from alley with red light on if open, or Oliver Hotel sliding door. Grab some friends and head to the best library you've ever not checked a book out at. Recommend 4.5, rounding down with service issue at the end.

Located inside the Oliver Hotel; you can get to the bar through the lobby or the alley way in the back (red light over the doorway). It's a small space so some says there can be a wait. There's a couple of seats at the bar then about 5-6 large booths. It's dimly lit and the decor is exactly like the name; a library. The menu is actually pages in a book. There's a lot to choose from; a couple options for each liquor as the base, so something for everyone. The drinks I have had are petruchio, Maeve Mallay, and holly golightly. The Holly golightly is one of their popular drinks but I'm a sucker for anything with tequila so the petruchio was my favorite. The Maeve Mallay is a gin based drink and tastes light and refreshing. Great to grab drinks with friends or for a date night.

The cat is out of the bag right off the bat, this isn't a library, but a secret, illicit, hidden place that sells fine cocktails. This was my first speakeasy experience. I mean, I've heard about them everything, but we don't have one in Lexington. I'm not kidding when I say hidden. The entrance is literally in an alleyway that is merely marked by a faint red light. The exit, on the other side of this small establishment, is sliding door marked as a wall, instead of a door, that exits into the hotel. I'm quite confident that I would've never found the place had a local not led the way. We sat on one of the couches and immediately started to explore the extensive cocktail menu. The menus are inside of hard bound encyclopedias. I was tempted to keep it simple and stick with a glass of wine, but decided to go with the flow and ordered a lemon concoction named with a literary twist. After we quickly finished our cocktails, we exited the door/wall behind the Oliver Hotel lobby area. After heading a few steps for dinner at the Oliver Royale, we learned that there was a wait to be seated there at the restaurant. So, if you plan to enjoy a drink at the library before dinner at Oliver Royale, check in at the restaurant first.