Social Profile: 
… View more
Hidden inside the historic Kern Building, behind The Oliver Hotel lobby, is Knoxville’s one and only speakeasy, The Peter Kern Library. Once a well-kept secret, the bar is now a beloved institution. The dark wood, fireplace, rows of books, and cocktails named after literary characters create a warm and cozy atmosphere where time seems to stop.
Sophisticated speakeasy-style bar serving craft cocktails in the back of the Oliver Hotel.
Menu Photos
Photo Gallery
Related Web Results
Eat & Drink – The Oliver Hotel
Hidden inside the historic Kern Building, behind The Oliver Hotel lobby, is Knoxville’s one and only speakeasy, The Peter Kern Library. Once a well-kept secret, …
Peter Kern Library | Knoxville TN – Facebook
Peter Kern Library, Knoxville. 10809 likes · 27 talking about this · 16518 were here. Hidden inside the historic Kern Building, behind The Oliver Hotel…
Peter Kern Library (@peterkernlibrary) · Knoxville, TN – Instagram
18K followers · 423 posts · Knoxville’s original speakeasy; historically scruffy, yet unpretentiously sophisticated. Find the code and look for the light…
Reviews
Jeffery Garrison, Jr
This little speak easy was great. Good drinks, beautiful space, nice service. Highly recommend making it part of your trip.
… moreMadison Campbell
Unfortunately, I was disappointed in our visit here. We have heard about Peter Kern’s for years (although not much recently), but only just finally found the right time to go. We were pretty disappointed. Immediately upon walking in we were surprised by how small the room is. The bar itself is tiny too with only a few stools. It was a little on the bright side (too well lit) for my liking and for the vibe of a ‘speakeasy’. We were sat at the bar and the service was okay, no complaints, but didn’t stand out either. The biggest downside to me were the drinks. Both my husband and I found our drinks to be uninventive and just okay. When patronizing a cocktail bar, I expect creative and well-balanced drinks. Unfortunately we felt like we had more creative drinks at dinner nearby. Overall, I feel like this bar could use a facelift and a menu overhaul. We could come back and give it a second go and try different cocktails, but when there are other options close by in town that we know hit the mark every time, it’s hard to be willing to give it a second chance. I will say they’re back to using the secret code, which I think is a plus.
… moreAsh
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.
… moreThe 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.
Elena Padilla
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.
… moreJared Watkins
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.
… moreJimmy Si
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.
… moreThe 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.
Denise Chernoff
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
… moreS
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!
… moreJohn Schaefer
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.
… moreJj Jones
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.
… moreI 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.