– Stunning Setting. Exceptional Cuisine –
The Old Library Restaurant is located in the historic Olean Public Library Building and is one of the region’s most beautiful and treasured landmarks. Built in 1909, with funds provided by the philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, this elegant work of art was designed by architect Edward L. Tilton in the Beaux-Arts style, complete with original bookcases, a grand staircase, and two fireplaces.
Full of Old-World charm and Art Deco flare, The Old Library pays tribute to the history of Olean’s prohibition-era with its cozy and casual speakeasy vibe. This exquisite historical landmark was listed on the National and State Register of Historic Places in 1985.
Based on 273 reviews, the restaurant has received a rating of 4.5 stars. Price
✔️ Dine-in ✔️ Takeout ✔️ No delivery
Address:
116 S Union St, Olean, NY 14760
Phone: (716) 372-2226
Website:
Social Profile: 
Hours
| Tuesday |
Closed |
| Wednesday |
11 AM–2 PM, 4–9 PM |
| Thursday |
11 AM–2 PM, 4–9 PM |
| Friday |
11 AM–2 PM, 4–9 PM |
| Saturday |
11 AM–2 PM, 4–9 PM |
| Sunday |
Closed |
| Monday |
Closed |
Menu
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Menu Photos
Photo Gallery
Order and Reservations
Reservations: theoldlibraryofolean.com
Reviews
Samir Popal
A friend and I visited this place for dinner. I must admit, it is almost unfathomable that such a gym of a unique restaurant exists in Olean. Absolutely loved everything about the establishment.
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Kritzy
This place was amazing! We were in town visiting my family for Thanksgiving and we wanted to go somewhere new for dinner. My sister called to see if we needed reservations and we did. They initially told us the first opening was 8:00 p.m. which would have been 3 hours from when she called. We decided not to go because of the time. Within 5 minutes of her calling they called back and said if we can come right away they would slip us in and so we did. I have been by this place many times but never knew it was a restaurant. It was the perfect setting for the holidays. Our server Logan paid much attention to our food requests especially since my mom has celiac disease. She was very kind and patient. The food was out of this world and very affordable especially since the atmosphere was kinda upscale. Two of us had the prohibition Burger, one had the smoked mac and cheese, one had the pesto pasta and the other had in her words, “the best gluten free burger and fries she’s had” for a long while. I highly recommend this place!
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Dave W
Very disappointed in the quality of food and additions for the cost. Definitely would not order food again from here unless the quality greatly increased or the price dropped dramatically.
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Alyse Tavano
My friend got married here. The staff were amazing, the food was amazing, the venue is absolutely beautiful. I would 100% recommend this place to anyone looking for a wedding venue!
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Drew Vics
My wife and I have been here twice. Love the atmosphere, great to enjoy such a historic building and see it repurposed like this. Staff are excellent, food is great. Would love to see some more vegan options, but we are happy that they can alter dishes if requested. Our usual is salad and tofu after a bruschetta appetizer sans parmesan. Great beer, wine and drink selections.
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Faith Labadie
I’d give this place a higher review but I morally cannot. They have no concessions for allergies (I have a severe shellfish allergy), which made my selections very limited. Since I was told that they have limited machines/cooking space. When telling the hostess, her exact words were “Just order something with no shellfish.” To say I felt insulted was an understatement. I don’t know if I would come back. With the lack of accommodation for my food allergy and that hostess’ attitude left me concerned.
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Sana Ajani
Delicious food, classic restaurant library decor, fantastic service. We got the steak and salmon which were both very tasty, but the highlight was the pesto pasta! Thought all the food and wine was reasonably priced for the portions and quality!
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nanette adinolfe
We loved this beautiful home , Louise and Amy greater us with great hospitality, and Dan was so helpful for helping us book dinner and our room , the home is comfortable love the beautiful rooms dedicated to each Author’s , rooms where so clean and decorate so beautiful, can’t say enough , as well as how wonderful it was to be so close to the restaurant …. Food was fantastic service was top notch thanks so much
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Samantha Bailey
Love the atmosphere and the preservation of history. The food and cocktails are excellent! This gem is certainly worth it for your next lunch or dinner out! An easy drive from Ellicottville and surrounding ski towns as well!
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Dara Levy
Last week we stumbled onto the Old Library for lunch as we passed through town. I’m so glad that we did!
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