Barrister's Pub & Meeting Place in Rochester to close after 12 years

Over a decade ago, when restaurant owners Maria and Tom Cook bought Barrister's Pub & Meeting Place, located at 36 West Main St., they thought it would be fun to fill the menu with political and family references.

When individuals in politics changed, so did the coordinating food items on Barrister's menu. For example, Barrister's chicken wings, currently titled K. Pink's Wings, have gone through five different name changes.

However, on Oct. 14, after 12 years in business, Barrister's will be closing its doors.

Last year, the building where Barrister's is housed was sold. In December 2004, the restaurant's lease expired and the Cooks decided they did not want to commit to another five year lease.

Barrister's agreed to rent month-to-month until the owners of the building found a new tenant. Unfortunately, the building was sold again and a new tenant, an upscale Italian restaurant, was found.

For now, other than the signs wishing a fond farewell, Barrister's is conducting business as usual. Also, Barrister's is selling all legal artwork off of its walls.

Barrister's closing will be a bitter sweet farewell for the owners, clientele and Rochester's legal community.

Copyright 2005 Dolan Media Newswires
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