At night, it’s one of Bristol’s most exclusive speakeasy cocktail bars but The Library has just launched an exciting new daytime concept. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons, the 'secret' bar which is disguised as a library, is now serving afternoon teas with a twist.
Called The Library Afternoon Tea Parlour, the afternoon tea offering has been created by the bar’s chef and French baker. The afternoon tea at the St Nicholas Street venue is split into two courses, starting with savoury snacks including a tarte tatin and gougère.
The mini loaf sandwiches are baked on site with seasonal produce including the meat sourced by Buxton's Butchers (which supplies The Library’s sister restaurant Mugshot a few doors away) and the bar's very own Mugshot Earl Grey and lavender gin-cured salmon.
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These are followed by the sweet treats including scones (traditional and savoury) served with strawberry and hibiscus jam and passionfruit and milk chocolate macarons accompanied by passion fruit puree. There is also a rich Earl Grey and dark chocolate tart.
The food is served with unlimited tea ranging from 11 different teas supplied by the award-winning Rare Tea Company. The loose leaf teas come from all around the world and are carefully selected for The Library.
Of course, an indulgent afternoon tea at The Library wouldn’t be quite right without a selection of cocktails specifically designed for such tradition. The Library's normal cocktail menu will also be available.
The traditional afternoon tea costs £42 and the Champagne afternoon tea is £52 (including a glass of champagne). The Library is also working on a breakfast brunch which will be announced soon.
Pre-booking for the afternoon teas, which are served Fri-Sun 11am-4pm, is highly recommended and a vegetarian option is available on a pre-book basis. To book, email bookings@mugshotrestaurants.com or call 01179 544 944.
