Celebrating Two Years At Sawyers Arms Tavern
What a huge couple of years we’ve had at Sawyers Arms Tavern! In September 2022, we (the Upham family) took the reins from the Clatworthy family, who had lovingly operated the pub for over 60 years.
Eileen Clatworthy ran the venue until she was 91, truly elevating pub dining in the region and making Sawyers Arms Tavern one of Geelong’s most loved pubs.
We’re inspired to continue her legacy of exceptional dining and great hospitality in this very special venue. Here's a look at what we've been up to over the last couple of years.
In the past two years, Sawyers Arms Tavern has undergone significant renovations, resulting in three dining options:
Eileen’s Charcoal Grill
Opened in June 2024, this intimate restaurant is named in homage to Eileen. Executive Chef Mario Tambalong has crafted a steak-centric menu with European influences, offering a refined dining experience. The extensive wine list includes hundreds of vintages sourced locally, across Australia and overseas (look out for Kaesler Wines' prestigious Old Bastard Shiraz!). We’ve also just launched a new $49 lunch menu, comprising a choice of two courses.
Two Noble
Launched in 2023, our Asian fine dining venue encourages shared meals and culinary exploration through Southeast Asia. Known for its fresh seafood, locally sourced meats, and seasonal produce, Two Noble also features a standout cocktail menu and a thoughtfully curated wine list by our Restaurant Manager, Adam Zelley. We’re so proud that Two Noble earned a prestigious Chef’s Hat in January 2024.
Sawyers Arms Tavern
The heart of our venue continues to shine, offering modern Australian pub dining with a great drinks list. Under the watch of our wonderful Venue Manager Morgan Hampstead, our team is always striving to deliver our guests a memorable pub experience.
In 2024, Sawyers Arms Tavern was recognised as a runner-up for Best Pub Restaurant - Regional in the AHA (Vic) State Awards For Excellence. This award highlights venues that deliver an elevated dining experience with full table service and a distinct offering beyond typical bistro or casual fare. Learn more about this achievement
Our famed chicken parmigiana was rated 100% in the AHA Parma of the Year 2024. According to the AHA mystery reviewer, "The chicken was perfectly cooked, moist, and tender, with well-executed toppings. The chips were hot and crunchy, and the salad was fresh and crisp."
Sawyers Arms Tavern also stands out as the only venue in Geelong offering Rockford, the highly regarded Barossa wine. Steak enthusiasts can indulge in a premium steak paired with Rockford’s signature ‘Basket Press,’ available by the glass, carafe, or bottle.
Come Dine With Us!
Our $49 Express Lunches are proving very popular, and great value. Choose two courses and enjoy a glass of wine or beer, 7 days a week.
Enjoy $2.50 Appellation oysters (Australia’s best) between 3-5pm every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Explore The Sawyers Arms Tavern Menus
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, an exciting new extension is underway at the rear of the venue, adding a courtyard wine bar and function space. This addition is expected to open in November, offering even more dining options for our guests.
Thank you to all of our wonderful customers, suppliers, staff and supporters. It has been a sensational couple of years, and we couldn’t ask for a better welcome. We truly love our pub!
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting new chapter for Sawyers Arms Tavern!