Zennotes is a free, keyboard-first local Markdown notes application for mcp platforms, developed by Zennotes. It features an integrated Model Context Protocol (MCP) server, allowing direct interaction with AI tools. Built with Electron for its desktop application and Go for its self-hosted web server, Zennotes offers a unique approach to note-taking by connecting directly to local Markdown files, avoiding proprietary database lock-in for its users.

What does Zennotes connect to?

Zennotes connects directly to local Markdown files stored on disk, treating them as a "vault" rather than relying on a proprietary database. This design choice supports plain-file note management. Its core function is as a keyboard-first local Markdown notes application. It also includes a first-party Model Context Protocol (MCP) server, specifically designed for integration with various AI tools, enabling external AI clients to interact with the user's note collection.

Core features and tools

Zennotes exposes several callable tools. Its first-party MCP server allows external AI clients to interact with the note vault. The desktop application includes a zen command-line companion, providing functionalities such as "list, read, search, capture, edit, archive/trash, task, folder, and MCP workflows". For remote vaults, the desktop app delegates operations like create, edit, run, undo, and run history to the server's journalled workflow API, ensuring consistent data handling.

Who is it for?

Zennotes is for users who prefer keyboard-first navigation and Vim motions for writing and organizing plain-file Markdown notes. It particularly suits those who want to avoid database lock-in and integrate AI agents directly with their note vault. This program supports daily notes, task management, and Notion-style table views using CSV databases. Skip this if you require a note application that relies on a proprietary cloud database for storage.

How to get started

The self-hosted Docker deployment authenticates using a bootstrap authentication token generated upon initial setup. This token is stored in "./data/auth-token" and used for initial sign-in, with subsequent access via an HttpOnly session cookie over HTTP/HTTPS.

Use cases

• Markdown Note-Taking and Organization: Write and organize Markdown notes with Vim motions, split/preview modes, tasks, tags, daily notes, and CSV databases for table/board views.
• AI Agent Integration: AI assistants like Claude Desktop and Cursor read/write to your Markdown vault via the MCP server, enabling AI content generation or analysis without data synchronization.
• CLI-Driven Productivity: The "zen" command-line interface supports note creation, searching, tagging, task toggling, and piped capture with JSON output for scripting.

Zennotes offers a distinct approach to note-taking, combining local Markdown file management with powerful AI integration via its MCP server. Its keyboard-first design and CLI tools cater to productivity-focused users seeking control over their data. The secure-by-default authentication for self-hosted deployments adds to its appeal.