Heritage-listed Sydney pub, The Glebe Hotel, has unveiled its new look following a seven-month refurbishment.

Previously known as the Australian Youth Hotel, the Bay Street pub has been a permanent fixture in Glebe since 1862 and has had a colourful history, including being home to a brothel in the late sixties.

Now the family-owned establishment bears a new name and a fresh new look, thanks to design firm Alexander & Co.

Co-owners and brothers Daniel and Zelman Nissen said their goal is to re-position The Glebe Hotel as a key destination in Sydney’s central district, and changing the name was the obvious first step to achieving this.

“Whilst locals who frequent the pub on a regular basis are aware of our offerings, those Googling from afar would often confuse the pub for a youth hostel, which is far from our gastro-pub standing,” they said.

“Refurbishment works were undertaken to coincide with the rebrand and we’ve achieved a fantastic result maintaining many of the hotels traditional features whilst reviving other areas with updated style and functionality to best cater for a more discerning clientele.”

Inside The Glebe Hotel is The Stables Bar & Grill, a light and airy dining space with exposed brickwork, wooden tables and a mezzanine loft. The restaurant leads out to the courtyard, with high tables for a more casual setting.

British head chef Ben Allcock has designed the menu to focus on gastro-pub fare using fresh, seasonal produce.

Small plates include seared scallops and Cloudy Bay Clams, while mains include handmade gnocchi with roast butternut pumpkin and goats curd, chargrilled spatchcock and slow-cooked pork shoulder ragu. The bar offers a full range of craft beers, signature cocktails and a creative spritz menu.

Upstairs guests will find the hotel’s private event space, Nude, named after its former life as a brothel in the late sixties. Nude is available to hire exclusively for up to 150 guests or as a semi-private space and also features a snooker and gaming room.