With a focus on offering a more substantial food menu, Gertrude Street’s bar of choice The Everleigh has reopened. Taking its cues from European influenced dishes, the new menu is designed for light snacking at the bar to larger share plates – think white anchovies in vinegar and olive oil to oozing cheese melts with smoked Gruyere, whisky-soaked shallots and mustard butter. Among the more substantial plates is the slow-roasted eggplant in lemon zest and garlic, topped with ricotta gnocchi, goat’s curd and parsley. Boozehounds meanwhile will undoubtedly take comfort in the ‘boozy pickles’, a spice and spirit-laden snack of pickled vegetables.

But it’s not just the menu that’s been updated. Owners Michael and Zara Madrusan, the duo behind the Made in the Shade group (Navy Strength Ice Co and Connie’s Pizza), have worked to lighten the interiors with softer elements throughout while still retaining the bar’s old world charm. A number of the leather booths have been removed and replaced with mirrored tables and golden velvet armchairs to accommodate larger groups while also being able to cater to couples.

Everleigh stalwards need not worry though, while the interiors have been updated the bar itself remains much the same with some minor changes, arguably pouring some of Melbourne’s best tipples. “We’re moving into a new phase for The Ev and continuously looking to up the ante. After recently being awarded national Cocktail Bar of the Year at Australian Bartender’s annual Bar Awards, we are reminded of how the bar has matured in her seven years on Gertrude Street. We’ve broadened the scope of what The Everleigh is as she grows, offering more for our guests across food, wine and design”, says Michael.

Also among the new changes is the addition of The Starling Room, a new private dining room which can be booked exclusively for larger groups or more intimate events with friends. And while cocktails remain at the forefront, a larger and more extensive wine list has been added to the offering.

For more see theeverleigh.com.au and to discover more Melbourne bars, see our list of the 10 best bars in Melbourne for Friday drinks.