Mornington locals are relishing the reinstatement of a historic pub on their Main Street, with The Bay again luring punters with bands, footy on TV and counter meals in freshly renovated surrounds.

"Mornington's got dozens and dozens of cafes, but no pubs," says operator Liam Ganley.

While there are a handful of other boozers in town, none have embraced the classic idea of a pub as much as Ganley, an Irishman who has drawn inspiration from his home country's cosy watering holes.

Dark timbers and hand-gilded mirrors are part of the classic look by designers Studio Y, who also had fun with the building's original use as a bank. The vault is now a private dining room for 10 people, with a small opening that looks into the bar.

A first-floor space for about 150 people houses a sports bar and a band room with a 3am licence. When Ganley took over The Bay, this was the only part of the venue being used and it operated as a nightclub.

He says locals who have outgrown that phase of their lives are delighted it's been returned to a more straight-shooting pub.

The food falls in step, with chicken parmas, fish and chips, and a Sunday roast. Texan chef Jeremy Sutphin is also serving southern-style fried chicken and more elevated plates such as kingfish with oyster cream or crab linguine.

Original features uncovered in the renovations include ceiling roses, plus old bank ledgers that have been framed and hung on the walls. "We want the building to tell a bit of a story," says Ganley.

Open Wed-Sun noon-late

62 Main Street, Mornington, 03 9534 0194, thebayhotelmornington.com.au