For fans of classic cocktails and the understated retro cool of quaffing in a hotel bar, the return of The Library Bar is overdue.

CARTER ROSE/Special to DMN

The longtime lobby bar of the circa-1924 Warwick Melrose Hotel has reopened with an updated look.

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The longtime lobby bar of the circa-1924 Warwick Melrose Hotel has reopened with an updated look that revitalizes the space's trademark rich wood paneling and comfortable seating with a few new touches – most notably the arresting "blue bar," where patrons can tipple against a bold backdrop of semiprecious lapis lazuli. But old-schoolers who like their elbow-bending to feature a bit of ivory-tickling can breathe easy: The Library's baby grand piano retains its place of honor, and live music remains on the menu every night.

Speaking of menus, executive chef Jeff Moschetti (formerly at Stephan Pyles) has debuted a new assortment of bar fare, including such upscale nibbles as grilled flat bread with prosciutto, figs and goat cheese, as well as heartier dishes such as venison chili with jalapeño corn muffins and the Landmark burger, made with "prime-plus" Akaushi beef.

Also new is a global raw bar, with seafood offerings that include tuna poke with candied kumquat and black sesame dust; Pacific ono with watermelon, smoked sea salt and cucumber; and scallops with orange macerated fennel and tangerine oil.

Like to check it out? The Library Bar is open daily from 2 p.m. until midnight or later.

The Library Bar, Warwick Melrose Hotel, 3015 Oak Lawn Ave., 214-521-5151, warwickmelrosedallas.com

Kim Harwell