Our Story

Patrons and employees of The Avenue Pub call it the "gay Cheers."

The Avenue Pub originated as a family business, and still holds the same bond today. A staple of the community, the Avenue Pub is one Rochester’s original long-time LGBTQ+ establishments.

Founded in 1975 at 522 Monroe Ave by Gary Sweet, whose involvement in the LGBTQ+ community is still remembered today. Sweet founded the Highland Park AIDS Remembrance Garden and appeared in Shoulders To Stand On, a documentary detailing the history of the gay community in Rochester. 

"He wanted it to be a safe place for gay people to go because back then there really wasn’t," his daughter said. "He stood his ground when people wanted him out." 

The pub was purchased by Peter Mohr in December 2022 , continuing its tradition of being a safe space full of good times.