Award-winning Melbourne bar The Everleigh has revealed a number of changes to the venue, including a more substantial food and wine menu and updated interior design elements.
Michael and Zara Madrusan, owners and operators behind the Made in the Shade Group – which includes The Everleigh, Heartbreaker, Navy Strength Ice Co, The Everleigh Bottling Co, and Connie’s Pizza – say that it’s all about evolving as a “flexible and versatile space” for their guests.
“We’re moving into a new phase for The Ev and continuously looking to up the ante,” says Michael. “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.”
The new food menu comprises a selection of European-influenced dishes designed to share. There’s snacks – like the ‘boozy pickles’, or white anchovies in vinegar and olive oil – and more substantial dishes, like a cheese melt with smoked Grueyere, braised beef cheek pie, and eggplant gnocchi.
While the bar remains recognisable and has retained its old world charm, a couple of the its famous leather booths have been removed in place of hexagonal mirrored tables and velvet arm chairs to create more open space that caters to both couples and larger groups.
The new private room, The Starling Room, can be booked exclusively by guests, but with more seats at the bar than ever, The Everleigh 2.0 is also aiming to offer an “elevated” drinking experience for guests seven nights of the week.
“We’re all about the customer’s experience and have observed what people want from the space over the years,” says Zara Madrusan. “We knew our guests were after a bit more vibe and interaction so we opened up the seating and changed the flavour of the space a little to better cater to that energy.
“As we continue to evolve, we endeavour to introduce a relevant offering for our customers and we felt food was definitely a strong addition for The Everleigh 2.0.”
Even with all the change, the drinks are still the core of The Everleigh’s offering. The menu features classic cocktails alongside house drinks showcasing the team’s own creative talents.
However, it’s their signature Bartender’s Choice offering that intrigues, allowing the bartender to get to know their guest and deliver a bespoke cocktail based on their likes and dislikes. The new menu also boasts an impressive wine list with a wide selection offered by the glass.
