At the former Ice House, The Governess gastropub opens this week in Poughkeepsie

Melanie Lemieux, owner and co-founder of ESS Hospitality, got the keys to the former Ice House in Poughkeepsie in April.

Her new establishment, a gastropub with elevated American cuisine called The Governess, is set to open this week with a grand opening celebration.

"We did it in a record time," Lemieux said of getting the restaurant up and running. "We couldn't be more ready to welcome people in this Thursday," she said.

The Governess opens Thursday 6 p.m. in Poughkeepsie

Since starting to get The Governess ready for a July opening, Lemieux and her team have renovated the interior, giving the restaurant the signature ESS Hospitality look, embracing character, with handpicked items by Lemieux.

Additionally, Lemieux has been developing the steakhouse environment she planned for her third restaurant. Customers will find a raw bar and choice of four different steak cuts on The Governess's menu. Plus, the menu will incorporate items ESS Hospitality has become known for at their other two restaurants in Queens, The Baroness and The Huntress, such as burgers and wings.

More on The Governess and Lemieux:This Queens brand is expanding in the mid-Hudson Valley

They will also be sporting signature cocktails, with a twist on one of the classics, including two takes on an old-fashioned, as well as modern cocktails to captivate a variety of tastes.

For more information on The Governess, including their food and cocktail menu, craft beers list, wine and spirits, as well as future events, visit thegovernessbar.com.