Two decades. A lot can happen in that time. Or nothing can happen. In the case of The Savoy Tavern, not a lot has been going on in the iconic, yet deserted space. Until now. The 70’s saw some good times there, and after a five-month renovation, we hope to see some more. Robert Doyle, our very own Lord Mayor was keen to get this space back up and running, insisting that it was doing no good for the city being left to rot. So, the space on Spencer Street, is open again under the ownership of Owner Mark Rowsthorn and business partner Sam Daish.
Nick Harding, of HA Architecture, was brought in to oversee the renovations and has used elements of the old site including the wooden bar and a rogue brick here and there re-imagined into pot plant stands. Creativity at it’s best.
So, The Savoy Tavern of today is set to be an accessible pub for the everyman. Football fans, after work drinkers and haunt seekers will mingle together down the bottom end of the city. A menu with nothing over $20 will see sandwiches with pulled pork and slaw or slow-cooked lamb with mint, local fish dishes, salads, and other pub mainstays. Expect something in between gasto pub and old school pub.
A front bar for the casual drink or two, and a back bar for live music and a cocktail after work. Savoy, cheers to you.
The Savoy Tavern
677 Bourke Street, Melbourne