Taking cues from its own name, the walls at Library Bar at The Abu Dhabi EDITION are decked with artworks inspired by language and the written word. From adages and aphorisms to letter line drawings and calligraphic sketches. The literary space is quieter, intimate even, and exudes an air of a private-members lounge, with sophistication found in subtlety. Slip through a set of heavy curtains to find high ceilings, wood panelling, soft lighting and plush velvet seats in rich royal blue and dark olive green, and, of course, the gold-framed literary musings. Simple yet refined.

If comfort is key, sink into one of the armchairs and order something exotic from the wheeled-around drinks trolley. Or, to be in the thick of things, hop onto a bar stool at the back and watch poetry in motion, as Library Bar’s mixologists blend spirits, herbs and exotic ingredients to craft cocktails named after best-selling books. Try a One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest if you like the sound of an apricot, ginger, vanilla and Hennessy VS Absinthe creation, or the rather exotic One Thousand & One Nights, with Patron Silver, tropical cordial, Matcha green tea, camel milk and mango meringue.

In lieu of having an actual book to read (though it’s a peaceful enough spot should you feel inclined), the menu deserves perusing. Drawing on the culinary scenes across both Asia and Europe, the bar bites line-up is devoid of chapters or courses, allowing guests to dip in and order when and as they like. The lamb Marguez roll with onion relish, French mustard and pickles is a proven crowd-pleaser, as is the crispy chicken bao bun, with gochujan, mixed slaw and sesame seeds. For something hearty, the Wagyu skewers marinated in soy and ginger with a tarragon aioli are worth an order. If more of a sharing approach is on the table, the cold cuts and cheese board – with Wagyu bresaola, veal truffle salami, taleggio, manchego and more – will go down very well, while the green earth burger with piquillo pepper, aubergine relish, halloumi and grilled shitake mushroom ticks all the right boxes. Forgo the triple cooked chips at your peril and save room for the chocolate parfait served with cherry compote, nougat and chocolate crumbs.

Whether you visit post-work, pre-dinner or for one of Library Bar’s special nights – Writer’s Block, Book Club and Negroni Sessions – make sure you bring a bookmark. This is one bar you won’t want to forget.