Only a few short months after closing, Yackandandah’s local, Yackandandah Hotel (‘The Yack’, also known as The Bottom Pub) has now reopened under new ownership.
The regional Victorian pub, located on well-frequented tourism routes near Albury-Wodonga, resumed trade on 1 August under the hands of hospitality professionals and new Yackandandah locals Jackson Cartwright, Sian Haycock, Brittany Hart and Dale Kemp (previously executive chef of Yolk Group).
The pub first opened in 1868 to serve the local gold mining community and has been a gathering place for locals ever since.
It was closed late last year by former owner Peter Cook, who, like many other regional pubs, faced economic concerns.
Now, the new owners are set to give the pub a new lease on life.
Hart said the aim was to offer quality food and drink along with warm hospitality – something the country town “could be proud of”.
The group restored the building to preserve its “old world charm”, retaining many original elements including its two fireplaces.
However, the bar remains the centrepiece of the venue, with a top made from local red gum by local tradies.
The venue also boasts a unique communal table made from a local five-hundred-year-old tree.
Outside, a large outdoor area caters to winter visitors with a cast iron chiminea and summer visitors with ample seating and an outdoor stage.
Upstairs, the pub will open its six rooms for accommodation later this year.
Kemp will naturally be heading up the kitchen. While the food is inspired by Melbourne dining the focus will be on quality and comfort, with local ingredients front and centre.
The Yack menu offers a dedicated steak section with local cuts, desserts showcase local flavours, and the drinks list features more locals.
Cartwright’s domain will be the bar, with Heart and Haycock hands-on in the dining room and management.
“Since we arrived, we’ve fallen in love with the town even more – the pace, the people and its strong sense of community,” said Kemp.
“The locals have been so invested in the refurb journey, welcoming us with open arms. And we can’t wait to do the same for them.”
