The Avalon was first established in 1990, by Gayle Pollard and Glenn Puster, in the old Mullany & Co. Universal Provider Building, which later became David Jones Manufacturing, in Main Street Katoomba. An unassuming single doorway entrance 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 original Avalon cafe

original avalon restaurant

In the early days, the Avalon staged events such as plays, poetry, opera, jazz & blues nights, dances & art exhibitions. 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 Avalon 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 popular Friday Supper Club showcases a wide range of talented local musicians who play in the dining room, while DJs take over the cocktail lounge once a month to spin retro vinyl tunes.

Regular events, such as AVALON X experimental dinners partnering with local winemakers, and dinner and show with world-class musical acts, 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. Avalon DOWNSTAIRS is a charming social lounge and event space, presenting live music and events every week. There's a hand-picked selection of local wine and craft beers on offer, plus a menu of small plates, designed to share. It’s the perfect spot for a casual meet-up with friends, or drop in for a drink before or after dinner.


About The Savoy

The site of the Savoy Theatre was originally opened on 25th December, 1911 as the Kings Theatre, a live theatre venue and one of the earliest theatres in New South Wales. 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.

Katoomba Amusements Company Ltd. Photo Play Theatre and Skating Rink

Katoomba Amusements Company Ltd. Photo Play Theatre and Skating Rink

Katoomba Skating Rink, Kings Theatre, 13 July 1929

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.

Architect impression of The Savoy Theatre building

Savoy Theatre, 1936

Savoy Theatre, 1936

Inside the Savoy Theatre from the dress circle, c1940

Inside the Savoy Theatre from the dress circle, c1940

A gala opening was held on December 18 1936 with '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.

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In 1943, the former billiard hall in the basement was converted into a 500 seat theatre named the Trocodero Theatre. It closed around 1965.

The Savoy closed in the early 1960s, but later re-opened. Moving with the times, The Savoy staged Rock and Roll and Stomp shows throughout the ‘60s. The Savoy finally closed permanently in early 1977.

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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 attendant shops and cafes, has been a focal point in the town. 

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.

Sadly, the Savoy Theatre and the Trocadero below are in ruins after a fire extensively damaged the auditorium in June 1982.

Savoy Theatre interior, 2019

Savoy Theatre interior, 2019

Savoy Theatre detail, 2019

Savoy Theatre detail, 2019

Article, Blue Mountains Echo, 16/6/1982