Rough Draft Bar & Books

Steven Quinn

2024-03

Pretty hip bookstore that has beer and coffee! Highly recommend the iced mocha, it's made with chocolate milk. The beer list is pretty good as well. Definitely has something for everyone to include sour beer. Staff is really friendly and happy to answer questions. They have tons of books in all genres. I definitely recommend giving this place a try if you are in Kingston.

George DeVita

2024-03

Rough Draft Books in Kingston, NY is a literary gem worth discovering. The inviting coffee bar serves up aromatic brews that perfectly complement their extensive collection of books. The cozy seating areas provide the ideal atmosphere for getting lost in a good read or engaging in lively conversation with fellow book lovers. The author events hosted here add an extra layer of excitement, offering patrons the opportunity to connect with their favorite writers and discover new literary talents. There is a unique beer list, which adds a refreshing twist to the traditional bookstore experience. Whether you're a bibliophile, a coffee connoisseur, or simply looking for a welcoming space to unwind, Rough Draft Books has something special to offer.

Kam

2024-04

I loved everything about this place!! It was such a unique experience, I wish I had a place like this back home. I highly recommend the Tarragon Girl tea, which was a very new taste & was nice to have while browsing through the books. The couches were comfy and there was plenty of seating space. You could come to relax with a coffee and read, chat with friends while sipping a beer, get some work done, buy a gift, or simply get a to-go order! They have a large variety of book options as well and friendly, helpful staff.

Joseph Stephens

2024-04

I recently visited Rough Draft Book and Bar with my daughter, and it was a delightful experience from start to finish. The highlight of our visit was definitely the hot chocolate – it was simply divine! Topped with shaved chocolate, it was evident that they take their hot chocolate seriously and craft it with care. Although I was unable to enjoy the lavender cappuccino I had hoped for, the cappuccino I did have was still delicious and expertly made.Beyond the drinks, the environment at Rough Draft Book and Bar was perfect for families. It was kid-friendly and had a relaxed atmosphere that made it an ideal spot to unwind, read a book, or simply enjoy some quality time together. Whether you're a book lover or just looking for a chill place to hang out, Rough Draft Book and Bar is definitely worth a visit.Kid-friendliness: Great place for kids

Jax Syms

2023-11

What a gem of a place!A must visit for any book lovers. Great selection of drinks for very fair prices, whether alcoholic or coffee/tea. Everything that I've tried is absolutely delicious.Wonderful selection of books of all genres as well. It's fun to just take time to browse around. Large variety, but not so much to be overwhelming.Good amount of seating, but this place can get pretty busy depending on when you go.

Emily Blomquist

2024-01

This is one of my favorite bookstores PERIOD. Located in the historic town of Kingston (New York's original capital), the whole area is oozing charm and Rough Draft Bar & Books is no exception.The only thing I like better than browsing a bookstore is browsing a book store with a beer (or one of their super fun rotating coffee specials!). No notes. I highly recommend!

Lysa Price

2024-04

Rough Draft Bar and Books in Kingston is an absolute gem! From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with the cozy embrace of shelves filled with captivating reads.Their coffee drinks are an absolute delight, crafted with precision and care. Plus, the fact that it's dog-friendly adds an extra layer of warmth and charm to the experience.Whether you're looking for a new book to dive into or simply want to enjoy a relaxing atmosphere with your furry friend by your side, Rough Draft is the perfect spot. Trust me, you'll leave with a smile on your face and a new favorite haunt in your heart.

Kenny Schaefer

2023-12

What an amazing bookstore and pub and Cafe! On the historic and famous Kingston four corners, Rough Draft is a delight when you can sit, open a book or three and enjoy a coffee, some pastries or a beer.Kid-friendliness: It's a bookstore. Keep you kids around books, always.

Katrina Garcia

2024-04

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Gilbert Marrero

2024-04

Great space, great vibe and yummy offerings. I went with a beet latte since I was driving through the area. My teen son had a peanut butter and something concoction and loved it. I loved people watching, and there was going to be a bit of live music. The bood selection looks fun and laptops are welcome. I will definitely come back with more time and intentions. Parking in this area is a tight and roads can be tricky, feed the meter or get the parking app. Lot's of other shops to check out as if you park at a distance.

Katya Reimann

2023-12

Hits the sweet spot for literary coffee café and wine bar in every way.Bookwise, the selection is geared to new titles and the shelf space is shrinking as the social areas expand. But that’s just about the only modern-malaise issue that this gem does not address.They had the most recent Martha Wells title in stock (yay, picking up that was the casual aim of our visit). Store credit punch cards are available for books and drinks.Coming up on Christmas, they have a “buy a book for local kids” program. What a great idea! Last year, we happened to be in town, the older kids in our group (now college-aged) were excited to participate, sharing a title they’d loved with a younger kid who might not have access. The “buy a book” shelf was stocked with a great selection of familiar classics for younger readers and some contemporary titles. This year, for a late November visit, we didn’t see that shelf until we were on the way out, so missed participating.But it’s this kind of imagination from Rough Draft’s management that makes it such an asset and a “must visit” stop when we are in town,The 250+ year old building that it’s in and the beautifully preserved architectural details, and unique American site at the historic “Four Corners” are… even more icing on the cake.

Audrey Wilber

2024-04

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Nabil Viñas

2024-04

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Daniel

2024-04

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Monica Marie

2023-06

Was looking for things to do in Kingston and came across this place which looked so cool so we made it a point to stop in. It is the nicest most chill and inviting bookstore/coffee shop/bar I have never been in. I had thought about getting a beer but the tables outside were full so we just got two coffees and relaxed on a couch. I wish they had more seating outside. The latte was great and the employees were very nice. I wish there was a place like this by us, we absolutely loved it here.

Summer Gonter

2023-05

If I lived nearby, I’d be in at least a few times a week. Very chill, but also a good place to go if you’re alone and wouldn’t mind having a beer and a good conversation with strangers. Fun barkeeps and regulars as well. Loved it.Also they don’t skimp on the book selection. I left with multiple books on each visit. Independent bookstores are a must have for me. Add in good beer and keep them open into the evening? My idea of heaven. Planning to make a trip back just to go here more.

Aniko Magyar

2023-05

Greatest bookstore I’ve ever been to! Aesthetic is unparalleled, everyone is friendly -great service, great drinks, convenient price and delicious pie . Healthy food very kind of stuff. Perfectly hanging out you’re friends. Inside and outside available… Parking is the next to the front of entrance… The Hudson Valley Libertarian Discussion Guild convened here on August 2nd, 2022.!

Jacob Kosior

2023-05

What a great find! Rough Draft is an absolute gem of a neighborhood spot. The book selection is surprisingly diverse with a little something for everyone, and the coffee and snacks are great. A must-visit if you’re in town.

Jim Weimer

2023-09

Look we just walked in looked around and left. Not because we didn't like we did we just didn't have the time. Only had time to check out the four corners.It looked like a fun place. Mixed age of clientele. Nice menu and books and beer what could be better.

Kevin

2024-03

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Amber Walker

2023-11

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Rafael Bey

2024-02

The monthly drink special Golden Caulfield was amazing!The mushroom and kale, and the chicken curry pies were good, fillings could use some more flavor.But the starts are the service and the atmosphere. Its a very welcoming place, and it was so relaxing to read while having the bite, and chatting with the table neighbor.

Three Isha Merians

2024-02

I love this place, but the last time I went in the person working behind the bar was so insanely offputting that it made both me and my partner feel completely unwelcome. You know that scene in a movie where someone walks into the wrong bar and everything stops and the bartender just stares at them with the meanest glare? That’s literally what it was like. I have no idea what was going on there, because normally this place is really nice, but something was going on, and it was very uncomfortable. We have not gone back since, because it was that weird.

Jimmy Yen

2023-05

Extremely cool decor and idea. Rough draft bar and books is a place you can stop by in the morning for some excellent coffee and pastries from other local stores. And also relax and enjoy a plethora of book options. And in the evening, you can have a beer and do the same. Or perhaps bring some friends and just chill, relax, and chit chat. The ambience and furniture makes it a perfect place to hang out and enjoy each others company.

Kat Fred

2022-05

This is one of the quaintest coffee & beer bar / bookstores that I’ve been to! Located on the corner of one of the most historic streets in New England. Street parking is limited, but worth finding to spend some time having a café or beer here. Be sure to walk down one block to a really neat mural!

K Davern

2023-10

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Kimberly Sandoval

2021-05

COVID-19 REVIEW: Open and Uber cute! So happy we stopped by this adorable bar/book store and had a yummy sour beer while browsing all the fun books inside. It was situated in a historic corner of town in a stone building with very lovely decor and plenty of different seating. People were there reading enjoying a drink or set up on high tops studying and doing work on laptops. Great place to hang out and chill vibes wish they had a place like this by me. Do not underestimate this place the beer selection is amazing.

C S P

2024-01

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Daniel Donnelly

2023-05

Cozy bookstore which serves coffee, beer and some foodstuffs. Friendly staff. Clean bathroom and outdoor seating in season. Streetside parking is metered before 6pm. The Hudson Valley Libertarian Discussion Guild convened here on August 2nd, 2022.

tms

2022-05

Rough Draft is in Kingston's historical district. There is a lot of history within the surrounding streets. Nothing beats being able to browse for books and drink local brews! Super nice staff, amazing collection/selection of books, and a really good variety of beers on tap! Highly suggested stop if you are up from the city for the weekend, or even if you are local, so we can continue to support our independent bookstores!