Bookish Bars: Where Literature Meets Libations

Where Literature Meets Libations

If you’re looking for a bar for readers, you’re in for a treat. These special venues offer:

  • A cozy, welcoming space to dive into a book.
  • A wide selection of drinks, from coffee to cocktails.
  • A social atmosphere where book lovers can meet and share their passion.

A bar for readers blends the comfort of a library with the lively ambiance of a bar. Imagine sipping a fine wine while being surrounded by books, or relaxing with a craft beer as you lose yourself in a novel. These spots highlight the simple pleasure of unwinding with a good book in a social setting.

Reading in bars often sparks debate. Some argue it’s a "pick me" gesture, while others see it as a perfect mix of two beloved activities: reading and drinking. Whether you’re there to enjoy solitude with a book or meet fellow literary enthusiasts, these bars provide a unique and enriching experience.

Infusing books into the bar experience bridges the gap between solitary and social activities. From book-themed cocktails to reading nooks, these bars celebrate the joy of literature in a novel way.

As someone who's toured and explored numerous bookish bars, I can confidently say that a bar for readers is a haven for book lovers. Find the magic where literature meets libations!

![Books and drinks at a glance:

  1. Cozy spaces for reading.
  2. Social atmosphere for book lovers.
  3. Variety of drinks from coffee to cocktails.

Simple guide to a bar for readers:

The Rise of Bookish Bars

Bookstore coffee shops are a blend of two beloved spaces: the bookstore and the coffee shop. These venues offer a unique experience where you can browse books while sipping on your favorite coffee. One excellent example is Rough Draft Bar & Books in Kingston, N.Y. This hybrid space combines a bar, coffee shop, and bookstore, creating a cozy environment for readers and coffee lovers alike.

Wine Bars

Wine bars have also accepted the literary trend. These places offer a sophisticated atmosphere where you can enjoy a glass of wine while diving into a good book. Imagine sitting in a comfortable chair, your favorite novel in hand, with the perfect wine to complement your reading experience. The combination of fine wine and literature provides a relaxing and enriching experience.

Hybrid Spaces

Hybrid spaces are the ultimate haven for book lovers. These venues offer the best of both worlds: a place to read and a place to socialize. For instance, Library II in Voorhees, New Jersey, is a restaurant that doubles as a library. You can enjoy a steak while surrounded by bookshelves, and even sign out books to read at your leisure. This unique setup creates a perfect blend of dining and reading.

Another great example is Rough Draft Bar & Books, which offers a variety of drinks, from coffee to beer, and hosts events like trivia nights and book clubs. This versatile space caters to a wide audience, from young professionals to parents with kids, making it a popular spot for literary enthusiasts.

![Books and drinks at a glance:

  1. Cozy spaces for reading.
  2. Social atmosphere for book lovers.
  3. Variety of drinks from coffee to cocktails.
  4. Unique mix of solitary and social activities.](https://www.frostbeardstudio.com/image.png)

These bookish bars are changing the way we think about reading spaces. They offer a welcoming environment for those who love to read and socialize, bridging the gap between solitary and social activities. Whether you prefer the quiet ambiance of a bookstore coffee shop, the sophistication of a wine bar, or the versatility of a hybrid space, there's a bookish bar out there for you.

Top 7 Bars for Readers in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is home to some fantastic reading-friendly bars that offer the perfect blend of good lighting, cozy spots, and a great selection of drinks. Whether you’re into craft beers, wines, or snacks, these bars have something for every book lover. Here are the top seven bars where you can comfortably enjoy your book:

Bottle Bar East

1308 Frankford Ave

Bottle Bar East is a haven for readers. Whether you sit at the bar, a table, upstairs, or downstairs, this place is well-lit and perfect for reading.

Pair your book with: A beer from their rotating draft list or one of the many craft bottles they carry.

Tria

1137 Spruce St

Wine and cheese make a great combination, especially when you're reading. Tria offers a light-filled atmosphere that's ideal for diving into a good book.

Pair your book with: The cheapest glass of wine you can get ($5 during happy hour!).

Kraftwork

541 E Girard Ave

Kraftwork is a well-lit spot, even late at night, making it a great place for reading.

Pair your book with: A flight of their rotating microbrews.

Varga

941 Spruce St

While it can get a bit darker at the tables later at night, the bar area at Varga’s is well-lit and perfect for reading.

Pair your book with: A pint from their rotating craft beer list, and enjoy one of the best happy hours in the city.

Murph's Bar

202 E Girard Ave

Murph's Bar is consistently well-lit, whether it's dinnertime or midnight. It's a cozy spot for readers at any hour.

Pair your book with: Something from their insanely cheap craft bottle list. Don’t forget to try the pasta!

Dandelion

124 S 18th St

Dandelion offers a cozy reading environment, especially at the bar on the first floor or in the dog-themed room. Avoid the couch by the fireplace, as it's usually too dark.

Pair your book with: A pint and one of Dandelion’s excellent bar snacks, like the deviled eggs.

Devil's Den

1148 S 11th St

Devil's Den in South Philly is a cozy spot with enough light to read comfortably.

Pair your book with: A bunch of snacks and, of course, a draft from their good selection.

![Reading-friendly bar highlights:

  1. Bottle Bar East: Rotating draft list.
  2. Tria: Wine and cheese.
  3. Kraftwork: Microbrews.
  4. Varga: Craft beer and happy hour.
  5. Murph's Bar: Craft bottle list and pasta.
  6. Dandelion: Bar snacks.
  7. Devil’s Den: Draft list and snacks.](/image.png)

These bars for readers in Philadelphia offer a perfect mix of good lighting, cozy spots, and great drinks. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to read or a spot to enjoy a drink with your favorite book, these bars have you covered.

Why Reading in Bars is Gaining Popularity

Reading in bars is becoming more popular, and it's not hard to see why. Here are a few reasons why this trend is catching on:

Solitary Activity

For many, reading is a cherished solitary activity. Bars provide a unique environment where you can enjoy your book without the distractions of home. Unlike coffee shops that can get crowded and noisy, bars often have quieter corners, especially during off-peak hours.

Fun fact: A bar can be a great place to unwind with a book after a long day, offering a change of scenery and a relaxed atmosphere.

Social Perceptions

There’s a lot of online chatter about the social perceptions of reading in bars. Some people see it as a way to project a certain image, while others think it's just a practical way to enjoy two pleasures at once.

Did you know? According to recent discussions, some folks even consider reading in bars a form of “vintage sexism,” where a woman reading alone might be judged unfairly. But not everyone reading at a bar is seeking attention.

Dating Hack

Believe it or not, reading in bars can also be a clever dating hack. Some people use books as conversation starters. For example, having a marketing book might attract driven individuals, while a classic novel could spark interest from literary enthusiasts.

Pro tip: If you're looking to meet someone, choose a book that reflects your interests. It could be the perfect icebreaker.

Reading in bars can be a great way to enjoy a solitary activity, steer social perceptions, and even serve as a dating hack. - a bar for readers infographic 3<em>facts</em>emoji_light-gradient

These factors contribute to the growing popularity of reading in bars. Whether you're there to enjoy some alone time, steer social perceptions, or meet new people, bars offer a versatile space for readers.

Next, we’ll address some frequently asked questions about a bar for readers.

Frequently Asked Questions about a Bar for Readers

What is a reading bar?

A reading bar is a cozy spot designed to improve your reading experience. Think of it as a bar with features that make it easy to read, like good lighting and comfy seating. Some even offer assistive reading aids that help you focus on your book, isolating the text from distractions around you.

Reading bars are perfect for those who want to enjoy a drink while diving into a good book. They often have quieter corners, making them ideal for solitary reading sessions.

What is a literary bar?

A literary bar is a bar with a twist—it’s themed around books and literature. These bars often celebrate favorite authors and literary classics, creating a unique atmosphere for book lovers. Imagine sipping a cocktail named after a famous novel or enjoying a drink while surrounded by shelves of books.

Some literary bars host events like book readings, author signings, and poetry nights. It's a great way to combine socializing with your love for literature.

literary bar atmosphere - a bar for readers

What is a bar for?

A bar is traditionally a place for alcoholic beverages and socializing. But bars have evolved to offer much more. Nowadays, you can find bars that cater to specific interests, like reading.

Fun fact: Bars like Rough Draft Bar & Books in Kingston, NY, blend the love for books with a social atmosphere, offering coffee, food, and a full-service bookstore.

Whether you're there to meet friends, enjoy a drink, or get lost in a book, bars offer versatile spaces for various activities.

Next, we’ll explore how Frostbeard Studio improves the reading experience with their literary-inspired candles.

Conclusion

At Frostbeard Studio, we believe that reading is more than just an activity—it's an experience. Our literary-inspired candles are designed to improve your reading journey by creating the perfect atmosphere for diving into your favorite books.

Imagine curling up in a cozy nook at a bar for readers, like Devil's Den in Philadelphia, with a pint in one hand and a captivating novel in the other. Now, add the warm, inviting scent of our "Old Books" candle to the mix. Suddenly, you're not just reading; you're fully immersed in a world where the essence of the story surrounds you.

Our candles are crafted to evoke the essence of different literary themes and settings, adding a sensory layer to your reading journey. Whether you're a fan of magical fields or classic literature, we have a candle that will make your reading experience even more special.

Enhancing Your Reading Experience

Our candles are more than just pleasant aromas. They are gateways to deeper engagement with your favorite books. For example:

  • "Wizard's Library": Perfect for diving into the magical world of Harry Potter, enhancing the theme of good vs. evil.
  • "Sherlock's Study": Ideal for mystery novels, bringing the essence of intrigue and intellect to your reading nook.
  • "Old Books": A scent that complements any classic literature, making themes of love, loss, and triumph even more poignant.

Transform Your Reading Nook - a bar for readers infographic checklist-light-beige

Transform Your Reading Nook

With Frostbeard Studio’s products, your reading nook becomes a sanctuary. Lighting a candle not only sets the mood but also helps you connect more deeply with the characters and their journeys. The right scent can make plot twists more thrilling and emotional moments more touching.

Explore our collection of literary-inspired candles and transform your reading experience today. Let the power of fragrance bring your favorite books to life, creating a truly unforgettable literary journey.


Written by Roxie Lubanovic

Co-founder of Frostbeard Studio, creator of bookish candles, and avid reader.