Advertising feature
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The new owners of Romano’s are tipping their hat to Wagga’s history by naming their newly established bar after the Hampden Bridge.
The three Wagga couples who bought the iconic pub are hoping to give it a new lease on life.
Two of the couples, Andrew Conkey and Belinda King and Jeff and Carly Millar, live in Wagga while the third, Gareth and Amanda Collin, live in Sydney but Gareth grew up in Wagga.
The owners want to transform Romano’s into a family friendly venue known for live music.
Despite being new to the hotel industry, the owners are confident they can use their skills to give the pub a new vibe.
“We are passionate about bringing this iconic building back to its former glory,” Ms King said.
Along with a new menu, the addition of a bar area is crucial to the rebranding of the pub.
What used to be the restaurant has been made into The Hampden bar.
The bar is a throwback to the Hampden bridge with exposed brick walls, rustic floorboards and polished concrete floors.
“We wanted to stay away from the restaurant scene, there are already a lot of great restaurants in Wagga,” Ms King said.
It is hoped the bar will give people a place to relax after work with a cocktail and bar food to share.
“We have an extensive spirit range and our wines and cocktails round out a fabulous beverage menu,” Ms King said.
The bar will be open from 5pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and is available for private functions on alternative days.
With so many new businesses opening on and near Fitzmaurice street, the owners saw the need to offer something different.
This feature is supported by:
“We want to compliment other businesses in the area and bring a bar to this end of town,” Ms King said.
If a new bar wasn’t enough, a new private dining area will soon be available below ground.
The cellar will be available for dining or cocktail functions.
After being transformed from a storage area, the space is a cosy and stylish private dining area which can seat 14 people or accommodate 30 standing.
The Cellar will be opening in coming weeks and will be available for bookings.
This year marks 70 years since the iconic Wagga pub was named Romano’s.
It was first opened in July 1857 as the Commercial Hotel and renamed in 1946.
Romano’s offers function space, gaming, the laneway (an outdoor area for 200 patrons), al fresco area, main bar and has 46 accomodation rooms.
For more information and specials go to The Hampden or Romano’s Facebook page or Romano’s website.