Monks Bar is readying to embark on a new chapter after being taken over by fresh owners, who have spent months restoring the venue to its former glory.
The building most recently operated as Spanish restaurant, El Nico, which opened in 2014 but shut down two years after, according to the Campaign for Real Ale's website.
Since then, the site has remained vacant and was previously up for auction with Clive Emson Land and Property Auctioneers in 2024 - but failed to sell initially.
The historic bar and restaurant is set to officially relaunch on Friday, April 3, with a full line-up of live music performances scheduled over the Easter weekend including Craig Henderson, DJ Tony Williams and Mama Funk.
Deborah Reale, who is part of the management team at Monks Bar, previously said: “I think opening Monks will be a big challenge because it’s been closed for a number of years but all of the team are very enthusiastic to start a new chapter.
“People are excited to see it open again and start coming here. Monks is something different, it’s not like your usual pub.”
In anticipation of the launch, the refurbished venue has also released its new menu featuring firm favourites including fish and chips, chicken supreme, asparagus risotto and more, with bookings now open.
1. Monks Bar, Old Portsmouth
Take a look inside the newly renovated Monks Bar which is making its return to Old Portsmouth. Picture: Habibur Rahman | Habibur Rahman
2. Monks Bar, Old Portsmouth
Take a look inside the newly renovated Monks Bar which is making its return to Old Portsmouth. Picture: Habibur Rahman | Habibur Rahman
3. Monks Bar, Old Portsmouth
Take a look inside the newly renovated Monks Bar which is making its return to Old Portsmouth. Picture: Habibur Rahman | Habibur Rahman
4. Monks Bar, Old Portsmouth
Take a look inside the newly renovated Monks Bar which is making its return to Old Portsmouth. Picture: Habibur Rahman | Habibur Rahman