ABOUT
ABOUT US
THE MERCANTILE HOTEL IN THE ROCKS IS AUSTRALIA’S OLDEST IRISH PUB.
Built in 1914 and opened in 1915, The Mercantile was established to replace the old Mercantile Rowing Club Hotel. The rowing club’s lease on their old site down by the water’s edge expired in 1911 and so they moved their club to Mosman, becoming the Mosman Rowing Club that we know today.
The Mercantile has traded continuously since 1915 on the site at 25 George St. Located adjacent to the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge in the historic ‘Rocks’ precinct, the pub has welcomed people from all over the world to experience its famous hospitality and good times. For over 100 years The Mercantile has earned a reputation as the home of Irish music in Australia and a place where unforgettable memories are made.
Mercantile Rowing Club
The original Mercantile Rowing Club was built on George Street in The Rocks, closely tied to the local harbour and social life of Sydney’s waterfront. It served as a gathering point for sailors and workers.
A New Chapter Begins
Plans were drawn for a new hotel building on the current site at 25–27 George Street, designed by Spain & Cosh for Tooth & Co., marking a major development in Sydney’s emerging pub culture.
The Mercantile Hotel Opens
The Mercantile Hotel officially opened, replacing the old rowing club and quickly establishing itself as a welcoming Irish pub in The Rocks. Since then it has traded continuously, becoming a beloved landmark near the Sydney Harbour Bridge and venues of culture.
A Community Staple
Through decades of change in The Rocks, The Mercantile remained unchanged in spirit, a place of good hospitality, live music and social gathering for locals, visitors and Irish people alike.
Heritage Recognition
The Mercantile Hotel was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register, recognising its architectural and cultural significance in Sydney’s history, with much of its external structure preserved over the years.
Closing Doors for Renovation
In October 2024, The Mercantile closed its doors for a major renovation and upgrade. In the meantime, the spirit of The Mercantile lived on at nearby 4 Doors Down, just four doors away, where patrons could still enjoy classic meals, drinks and live music.
LEGACY CONTINUES AT 4 DOORS DOWN
While the historic site underwent revitalisation, 4 Doors Down served as the temporary home of The Mercantile’s hospitality, offering Guinness, Irish classics, and community spirit while the heritage building received its modern upgrade.
OFFICIAL REOPENING & NEW ROOFTOP EXPERIENCE
In 2026, The Mercantile reopened with a new look and feel, refreshed interior and an exciting new rooftop offering, inviting old friends and new visitors alike to enjoy Sydney’s home of Irish hospitality with upgraded spaces, elevated views and the same great atmosphere.
COMMUNITY SPONSORSHIPS
MET AT THE MERC
Norma + Poul
