Welcome to AVALON
Occupying a unique space in the dress circle of the historic Savoy Theatre building in Katoomba, AVALON is a local institution having been in operation since 1990.
The modern Australian menu combines influences from around the globe, and offers something to please every taste. The drinks list showcases more than 100 Australian wines, spirits and craft beers to try with a focus on local producers.
Local musicians perform each Friday night at the popular Friday Supper Club, and each Saturday downstairs at The Gin Parlour, housed in the lobby.
Top this off with friendly, casual service and you will see why AVALON is one of the Blue Mountains’ most popular and long-standing dining experiences.
The History of AVALON
The Avalon was first established in 1990 in the old Mullany & Co. Universal Provider Building, which later became David Jones Manufacturing, in Main Street Katoomba.
An unassuming single doorway led into a long maze-like passageway where patrons trekked up three flights of stairs to the restaurant, which was set in a large warehouse space at the back of the building. The smoking room was a fondly remembered nook which added to the bohemian atmosphere. In 1999, a pyromaniac set fire to the building, which was subsequently demolished.
The Avalon re-established itself the next year in the upstairs dress-circle of the historic Savoy Picture Theatre, just around the corner from the original site. The projection room became the kitchen and the old refreshment lounge became the Cocktail Bar. A large window was installed at the back of the space which opened up to views of Leura and the Jameson Valley.
The restaurant design took inspiration from old ocean liners of the 40’s & 50’s, while in keeping with the art deco style of the historic Picture Theatre and Lounge.
In 2016, Dylan Brookes and David Cartwright took over ownership of the Avalon, continuing to build upon the unique dining experience, while adding their own stamp to this Blue Mountains institution. Avalon continues to be a popular dining destination for locals and visitors alike.
The introduction of the popular Friday Supper Club showcases a wide range of talented local musicians who play in the dining room, while regular events and special occasions mean there’s always something interesting to partake in.
In 2020, the Avalon expanded to incorporate the Savoy Theatre foyer, which has been for the most part unused since fire gutted the theatre in 1982. The space currently houses The Gin Parlour, a charming lounge in collaboration with Blue Mountains Gin Company, offering gin tasting experiences, live music and the monthly Katoomba Comedy Club. It’s the perfect spot for a casual meet-up with friends, or drop in for a drink before or after dinner.
History of the SAVOY
The Kings Theatre opened on 25th December, 1911, a live theatre venue and one of the earliest theatres in NSW. By 1925 it had become a dancing venue known as Palais de Dance, and by 1929 a roller skating venue. It closed in 1930 to become a shop and warehouse.
Later, architects Crick & Furse, who also designed the Empire (Embassy) just down the street, re-modelled the building into an art deco style cinema. The Savoy opened on December 18, 1936 and had a capacity to accommodate an audience of 992 people.
A gala opening was held on December 18 1936 with a screening of 'Swing Time' starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, and later that month the Savoy showed 'Sing Baby Sing' starring Alice Faye and Adolphe Menjou. In May 1954 the Savoy Theatre was still operating and screening 'The Gentle Gunman' starring John Mills and Dirk Bogarde and 'Blue Grass of Kentucky' starring Bill Williams.
In 1943, the former billiard hall in the basement was converted into a 500 seat theatre named the Trocodero. It closed around 1965.
The Savoy closed in the early 1960s, but later re-opened, but moving with the times, the venue staged Rock & Roll and Stomp shows throughout the ‘60s. The Savoy finally closed permanently in early 1977.
Sadly, the Savoy Theatre and the Trocadero are in ruins after a fire extensively damaged the auditorium in June 1982.
The building has played a significant role in the social and cultural life of Katoomba for ninety years. In successive roles as cinema, dance-hall, casino, theatre, cinema again and restaurant. The complex, with its accompanying shops and cafes, is a focal point of Katoomba.
The Savoy is an example of Interwar Functionalist design, and the prominent location makes the Savoy a Katoomba landmark.
Today the facade, entrance foyer and upper sections of the former Savoy Theatre house the Avalon Restaurant. The building is privately owned and listed on the National Trust Register.
