For more than 150 years, the building at the heart of Moore Street has been part of Rochester’s story.
Originally built in the 1870s as the Commercial Hotel, it stood during a time when Rochester was a booming river and railway town. Like many country pubs of the era, it was more than just a place for a drink. It was where travellers stayed, locals gathered, business was discussed and celebrations were shared.
Over the decades the building evolved, eventually becoming the much loved Rochester Wine Tavern, while still holding onto many of the historic features that make it such a special part of the town’s character.
Now the building begins its next chapter as The Local 3561.
At the heart of this next chapter are Trav and Kate, born and bred locals who are deeply connected to this community. They’re raising their family here, they’re a big part of the Rochester Football Netball Club and Rochester Tennis Club, and they’re the kind of people who make Rochy what it is.
Trav’s never far from an ice cold VB, Kate loves a chat and a good social catch-up, and together they’re the ultimate hosts, the kind who make you feel welcome the minute you walk through the door.
Their vision is simple: create a place where locals can gather, visitors feel welcome, and where Rochester continues to grow and be put on the map for all the right reasons.
A place that honours the history of the pub while bringing new life to one of Rochester’s most recognisable landmarks.
After more than a century and a half of serving the community, it feels fitting that this iconic building will once again be exactly what it was always meant to be.
The Local 3561.