The Rochey reopens with new operator, chef, menu, and live music series in Fitzroy.
The Rochey, also known as the Rochester Hotel, has reopened its doors on Johnston Street in Fitzroy with a new operator, refreshed team, and a revamped menu.
A favourite amongst locals since the 1970s, The Rochey is embracing its heritage with a modern twist, featuring a fresh line-up of music events, weekly specials, and happy hour deals designed to appeal to regulars and newcomers alike.
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The Rochey sits at the heart of Fitzroy, on Johnston Street between Brunswick and Smith, and has always been more than just a local pub. It’s been a cultural melting pot for musicians, artists and characters that helped shape the area’s vibrant creative scene, especially back in the 70s, 80s and 90s, when it was buzzing with live music.
Fast forward to late 2024 and the pub has been given a much-needed revamp and refresh by new operator Castle Group, which made sure not to mess with the relaxed, welcoming vibe that people have always loved. The focus at the reinvigorated Rochey is friendly, familiar service that makes locals and those from further afield feel right at home.
The live music that The Rochey was known for will soon be revived, with Upstairs @ The Rochey about to become the new spot for great local acts and intimate gigs.
Live music at The Rochester
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Following its longstanding tradition of live music, The Rochey is launching Upstairs @ The Rochey, a new series of late-night shows presented by Castle Events. Opening on November 2, the music series will bring some of Australia’s top electronic musicians to an intimate 150-capacity venue, offering fans a rare opportunity to see them in close quarters for just $20 entry. Acts like dameeeela, Hybrid Man, and DJ PGZ (recently awarded Best DJ at the Music Victoria Awards) are set to headline in the coming weeks.
Upstairs @ The Rochey – November/December Series:
- Saturday, 2 Nov – dameeeela
- Saturday, 9 Nov – 1nnerself w/ Energy 11
- Friday, 15 Nov – Amraks
- Saturday, 23 Nov – Hybrid Man
- Saturday, 30 Nov – R&R
- Friday, 13 Dec – Willem
- Saturday, 14 Dec – Juno Mamba w/ PARIS
- Friday, 20 Dec – DJ PGZ
- Saturday, 28 Dec – Eluize
Food at The Rochester
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Executive Chef Bonngyo Seo has crafted an updated menu that brings a refined approach to pub classics and seasonal dishes. Guests can look forward to mains like the house-made chicken parma with buttermilk-brined free-range chicken, or the Rochey Burger, served American-style with lettuce, tomato, jalapeno jam, and cheese. The menu also caters to vegetarian preferences with choices like eggplant parma and mushroom fettucine, providing options for everyone at the table.
The Rochey’s happy hour, one of the best deals in the city, runs daily from 4 pm to 7 pm and offers $8 house wines and pints, $14 cocktails, and the “Mates 8.80” snack menu for sharing.
- Burger Wednesdays: $15, coincides with Trivia Night
- Steak Thursdays: $22
- Saturday Lunch Special: $20
- Sunday Roast: $25
A reimagined space
The reimagined Rochey retains its inviting, laid-back vibe across its various spaces. The Front Bar has high ceilings, large windows, and cosy seating arrangements by the classic U-shaped bar. The Bowie Bar offers a semi-secluded spot for cocktails, while the sizeable Beer Garden out back and street-side seating give patrons plenty of options to relax and soak in Fitzroy’s atmosphere.
Whether stopping by for a drink with friends, trying out the new menu, enjoying live music, or joining the weekly pool competition, The Rochey is back as a welcoming spot with something for everyone.
For full details on The Rochey’s offerings, including the new menu and music line-up, visit The Rochey.
