Sydney’s North Shore is welcoming back one of its most iconic pubs. The Old Commodore Hotel has reopened, returning not just with a refreshed look, but with a renewed spirit that celebrates the remarkable story of William “Billy” Blue – the larger-than-life ferryman, smuggler, raconteur and entrepreneur who gave the pub its name and the neighbourhood its character.
Located between North Sydney’s commercial district and the village charm of McMahons Point, the Commodore has been a local institution for more than 169 years. Its transformation pays homage to a bygone era while welcoming in a new generation of locals, workers, and visitors to eat, drink, and connect.
Glenn Piper, CEO of Epochal Hotels, said:
“Since acquiring The Old Commodore Hotel, we’ve been on a remarkable journey bringing this iconic venue back to life. Exploring the history of Billy Blue, the larger-than-life character who helped shape Sydney’s North Shore, has been a highlight of that journey.”
He continued:
“The Old Commodore Hotel has always been a place where people come together. With this reopening, we’ve poured our energy into ensuring that this continues for a new generation, while letting Billy Blue’s bold, welcoming, and full-of-character spirit shine through. It’s once again a space where locals and visitors can gather, share stories, and make new memories – and we couldn’t be prouder to welcome the community back.”
A Legend Reborn
Billy Blue’s story is one of Sydney’s great origin tales. Transported to New South Wales as a convict, Billy soon established himself as a ferryman and trader and became a fixture of the young colony. Governor Lachlan Macquarie granted him land at Blues Point, where he built Northampton Farm and ferried passengers across the harbour with wit, charm, and, on occasion, a little contraband.
Known affectionately as “The Old Commodore,” Billy was an eccentric, egalitarian figure who moved effortlessly between worlds – convict and governor, smuggler and entrepreneur, entertainer and community builder. What made him truly remarkable was how he carved out a place at the centre of Sydney life, becoming a symbol of possibility, charm, and defiance.
His son, John Blue, later opened the original Old Commodore Inn in 1854 to honour his father’s legacy of hospitality and connection.
That legacy is woven into the very fabric of McMahons Point – and now, back into its pub. The Old Commodore Hotel’s redesign is a living tribute to Billy Blue, reimagining his world for today. The spaces deliberately collide worlds: working-class textures of timber, steel and brick sit alongside refined touches of travertine, linen and brass. Nautical stripes, hand-painted signage, pressed metal ceilings and curiosities brimming with stories carry his maritime swagger, while landscaping recalls the fertile gardens he once planted at Blues Point.
Music, Dining & Community
Music has always been the soul of a great pub, and The Old Commodore Hotel is putting it front and centre. The venue will host a curated lineup of local acts, small ensembles, and emerging artists, designed to bring people together and keep the energy building from day to night – from relaxed daytime sessions to lively weekend performances.
From laidback lunches to lively nights, The Old Commodore Hotel has been designed as a place where music, storytelling, and community come together.
Venue highlights include:
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Main Bar – The Pub’s Beating Heart: Bright and earthy, the Main Bar sets the stage for the Commodore’s music program. A raised platform will host a curated lineup of artists.
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Dining Room – A Jewellery Box of Curiosities: With low ceilings, the Dining Room is an intimate space lined with portraits, press clippings, and artefacts from Billy’s life. It’s a space for long meals, rich storytelling, and the occasional unplugged performance or songwriter’s session.
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The Terrace & Beer Garden: Sun-drenched and green-filled, these outdoor spaces invite long afternoons that roll into night. With room for pop-ups, DJs, and live acts, the program keeps music and community flowing year-round.
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Sports Bar – The Smuggler’s Club: A moody, cellar-style space anchored by a reclaimed brick bar and cheeky historic references. By day, it’s an elevated game-day destination; after dark, it transforms into a late-night music den.
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Bottle Shop: A corner-store classic with character – stocking a mix of local favourites and curated surprises to take home.
Food & Drinks
The Old Commodore Hotel’s all-day menu is approachable yet elevated, blending pub classics with modern favourites. Expect wood-fired pizzas, chicken parmi, fish and chips, three cuts of steak (including an indulgent steak sandwich), alongside share plates and seafood snacks like a bug roll and crab croquettes.
Desserts are playful and nostalgic, from caramelised banana with coconut gelato to cinnamon-sugar plantain crisps.
Behind the bar, the team serves signature cocktails like the Commodore Spritz (bay leaf vodka, peach, passionfruit, apple, Prosecco) and a salted-rimmed twist on the margarita, alongside Australian wines, craft beers, and thoughtful non-alcoholic options.
