The Vic Brew Bar re-opens today afternoon after closing to allow earthquake strengthening to be carried out on the pub's historic building.

General manager Phil Williams said major steel re-inforcing beams were put in the building and old brick work in the building was removed.

The business had taken the opportunity of the bar being shut to give the bar a spruce up as well.

A new kitchen had also been installed.

''It brings it up to spec of a new building, if not stronger ... it's going to be a pretty solid building.''

Mr Williams said the kitchen would be open and offering its full menu from tomorrow.

However the bar's courtyard area and part of the restaurant and live music area would remain closed for another two weeks.

To celebrate re-opening after being closing on July 15, Mr Williams said the bar would be running a happy hour today and free nibbles from 5pm to 6pm.

Macs were releasing a new beer - a Shady Pale Ale - which would also be available.

The Vic Brew Bar is a family run business with Mr Williams parents Ian and Sally owning the business.

Mr Williams' brother Chris is head chef, brother Howard is bar manager and sister Zoe account manager.

They have run the business for the past two years.

He said the strengthening was a costly exercise for both landlords and for the business to be closed for over three weeks, but it was now one of the first buildings in Nelson to be brought up to standard.

- © Fairfax NZ News