Absence may make the heart grow fonder but after a month of going without our late night tea and cake fix post picking up a fresh read at the darling Mount Eden Timeout Bookstore, we were more than ready for this beloved village icon to return to the fold. Much to the delight of locals and those in-the-know, the time has finally come and by golly, Frasers’ new look and feel does not disappoint.

Breathing new life into the historical Cuckseys building, the refurb — undertaken by the adept hands of the Two Right Group — took to stripping back rather than layering atop as their modus, and if the resulting exposed characterful original brick walls are anything to go by, it was a good call. Then, taking into account the crowds that are known to descend upon Frasers on a nightly basis, the counter was moved strategically to become a long bar, significantly opening up the space to receive new stools, more tables as well as a handsome line-up of banquette seating options.

But with all these changes, what will happen to the menu of crowd-pleasers, you ask? One of the major differences is that Frasers will soon be licenced, thus adding to the range of imbibe-able treats on offer. But, upon reading the concerned looks on our faces, owners Paul and Sandra Fraser promised that the classics are staying. So, Bailey’s cheesecake and ‘Upbeet’ chocolate mud cake supporters, you can breathe a sigh of relief. However, on the days when you’re after something more substantial, chef Bryan McGruer (formerly of Jervois Steak House and The Grill by Sean Connolly) is at the helm banging out delectable plates of salmon ceviche, a bun-free bahn mi, and an expertly prepared beef tataki. Finally, we delved into the deconstructed pavlova with gusto.

So, whether you grab a sunny table outside and an Allpress coffee to go, or, opt for a perch at the counter for a date with a delightful citrus date scone — reportedly the best in the country — you’d be wise to pay this ‘old friend’ a visit and catch-up on all that’s happened.

Open 7 days, from 6.00am till 11.00pm.