From the Everleigh to the Elk

Award-winning bar The Everleigh, on Gertrude Street in Fitzroy, is opening a new space, The Elk Room, on Friday night. Co-owner Michael Madrusan needed a solution to requests for private events in the bar, so he decided to turn the gallery space behind the intimate, old-school venue into a function room. Madrusan's sister Deanie has designed the interior, which is influenced by American Civil War memorabilia. ''It's more masculine than the Everleigh, more of a gentlemen's club,'' Madrusan says. The Elk Room can seat 30 people or cater for up to 60 standing. Unlike The Everleigh's booth seating, The Elk Room has eight Chesterfield sofas. ''It's like The Everleigh meets the Supper Club,'' he says. The Elk Room will be open to the public on Friday and Saturday nights if it's not booked and is licensed until 1am.