In 1868 a hotel was established on this site trading under the name of "The Town Hall Hotel". In the 1920's due to a fire the hotel was rebuilt. The Architect being Peter McIntyre who specialised in hotel design and did considerable work for Carlton and United Breweries.
In 1981 extensive renovations were undertaken and a different style of business was created under the name of "McCoppins Wine Pub". Prior to the 2007 make over the hotel traded under a different name for 6 years.
Griffs Wine Pub is named after the proprietors Red Kelpie, proudly depicted in the oil painting above the fire place in the bar.