The craft cocktail movement has been well established in San Fransisco and Oakland for some time now, but finding an artistic concoction this far out in the East Bay can prove to be quite a challenge. Thanks to Library on Main, finding a decent drink may be easier now than ever before.

Located in what was previously Élevé on 1677 N. Main St. in Walnut Creek, Library on Main officially opens on September 10th but is hosting limited soft openings Thurs.-Sat. evenings. Chef/owner Michele DuRye is ditching her signature Vietnamese style and attempting a more American menu.

Some of what was sampled included the burrata with walnut pesto, roasted beets with mint and goat cheese, spiced prawns and pork belly. The food is well prepared, but lacks a certain depth of flavor. As is apparent in the pork sugo and penne. While the pasta and pork are both cooked beautifully, the flavor falls flat and leaves much to the imagination. The beets were a definite highlight with a fresh and vibrant flavor contrasted with creamy goat cheese.

The cocktails keep things interesting with offerings like the Monkey’s Gland, a gin based cocktail with hints of citrus and absinthe to add complexity. The Bourbon Cocktail, with a splash of bitters and featuring a single hand cut ice cube can make anyone feel like a more sophisticated drinker.

It will be interesting to see if this place can successfully evolve, and if they can mange to recreate the layers of flavor they were known for. Library on Main is definitely worth checking out, if not for a full meal, then for an impromptu happy hour with friends.