Library Alehouse
Santa Monica, CA 90405-5315
Phone: (310) 314-4855
- Cross Street:
- Ashland Avenue
- Best of Citysearch:
- Beer Selection 2006, Beer Selection 2004, Conversation Bar 2004
- Hours:
- Daily 11:30am-12am
Editorial Review for Library Alehouse – by Lilla Zuckerman
The Scene
A candlelit bar, high tables and sleek bar stools create a relaxing interior inside this warm, Craftsman hideaway, while blond-wood walls, glass windows and high ceilings provide an airy and open feel. Bottles of imported beer line the shelves, while televisions silently flash sports scores. An after-work spot for young professionals and an unintimidating bar scene, this is a refreshing alternative to the pickup palace of Circle Bar across the street. The canopied back garden patio is heated and sheltered by garden walls.
The Draw
Boasting the best beer selection on the Westside, featuring 29 microbrews and imports on tap, this may be the only place you can get an actual pitcher of rare brew. Servers are knowledgeable and affable, but indecisive drinkers usually opt for one of three beer-tasting flights, designed for beginners, intermediates and adventurous drinkers.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
ParkingStreet parking is scarce, so head west of Main Street on Ashland, and turn into the spacious metered lot.
Save MoneyDuring the week from 4pm to 6pm, pints start $3.50, 32-ounce drafts are $5, assorted tacos cost $2, while papaya quesadillas and buffalo wings are $4 each.
When to GoOn Tuesdays, pints are $5, including a free glass, which can be refilled any Tuesday for only $3 (excluding Belgian beers).
User Reviews for Library Alehouse
03/09/2008 Posted by JoGirl310
I used to love this place and had been a loyal customer since the 90's. Unfortunately, this afternoon I made the mistake of dropping in for a quick refresher during my afternoon skate. The atmosphere seemed casual and friendly. The hostess let me in without hesitation, and the bartender seemed happy to sell me a beer... but just as I was about to take my first sip, the "manager" approached and announced loudly, in front of everyone at the bar, that I would have to leave. He told the bartender to refund me my $6.00 and unceremoniously showed me the door. Apparently, there is a policy in place that prohibits skates, and as I didn't have spare shoes my sock feet were prohibited as well. I have no problem with that policy, but it seemed unnecessary for the manager to humiliate me after his staff had already violated the policy. It's a shame that such a formerly cozy establishment has become so unfriendly to locals.
Pros: Beer selection, quality of appetizers and entrees, attractive decor
Cons: Uneven service, often over-crowded, mean new manager
02/25/2008 Posted by limpboxy
I love this place! Everything I've tried on the menu has been great. There's something for everyone on the menu, including vegetarian options. Everyone is very friendly and the service is prompt. Make reservations because it fills up fast. There's usually a wait, even at off times.
Pros: food, beer selection, atmosphere
Cons: street parking can be a pain
Users Like You Also Viewed
Spa Le Merigot
1740 Ocean Ave
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Skinny's Lounge
4923 Lankershim Blvd
North Hollywood, CA 91601
