Set in the suburb of Maryland, sits an old favourite watering hole that was brought back to life with a brand-new, expertly designed, and refreshed venue last year.

Since Maryland Tavern’s relaunch in February last year, the refreshed venue has put Maryland on the map with its impeccable interior design, state-of-the-art kids’ play area, and above everything, its top-notch foodie offering of elevated pub classics with Head Chef Johno Jones and Executive Chef Stephen Scott at the helm.

“The classic meals are why you go to the pub for dinner. Simple, hearty meals, and good portions without the extravagant cost. A schnitzel is always better enjoyed when you’re having it at the Tavern,” Johno said.

For those keen to know how the menu fares, you’ll want to buckle in because, with Johno behind all of Maryland Tavern’s food, every dish is the epitome of traditional pub classics.

One of the venue’s standout features in the kitchen would have to be their onsite woodfired pizza oven – with all your favourite classic pizza flavours served on a 48-hour dough.   

Not ones to overcomplicate their menu, the classics (all served with your favourite sides and sauce) include rump steak, sirloin, Cumberland pork sausages, crumbed lamb cutlets, beer-battered barramundi, and the traditional hand-crumbed chicken schnitzel (with six different toppers to choose).

For those looking for something smaller, Johno has also included a selection of starters including fried halloumi, crispy chicken wings, and roast pork belly bites among our highlights.

“My favourite dish on the menu has got to be the pork belly bites. They have a deep, fragrant flavour, crisp on the outside, like butter when you bite into them.”

Additionally, you can also get your hands on three pasta dishes, three burgers, wood-fired bread, a selection of different mains, and, of course, dessert.

“We are currently in the design phase of a new menu to go with our vision of the classics and to pay homage to the area. I have been teasing some of the locals with the new items and they seem very keen for the new additions. Hopefully, with our knowledge combined we can kick this new menu off to a great start and keep our locals happy.”

Having jumped across the car park from their original site, Maryland Tavern now sits on the right side as you enter the area, with the old site set to be a brand-new Woolworths due to open soon.

The venue has truly come into the modern hotel era with the new build coming to life at the hands of North Sydney-based architects, Bergstrom Architects, and Central Coast-based builders, Collaborative Construction.

The interiors feature dark and moody hues with pops of timber throughout, giving off an approachable industrial feel. From the leather booths, timber bar-top, and brick tile feature wall, to the high-top tables, copper beer taps, and open kitchen; every element throughout has been thoroughly considered.

The venue is divided into four distinct sections offering unique dining experiences for all. The Sports Bar comes to life with its huge three-by-three dedicated sport screen. Move through to the bistro featuring long tables, booths, and cosy nooks.

Just off the bistro area is where the kids get to have all the fun with an interactive games room which is viewable from almost every single table; saving you from having to get up every two minutes to check on the kidlets!

The outdoor area is split into two separate areas; one for smokers, and the other just off the car park perfect for those who enjoy a little outdoor breeze or the afternoon sun.

The refreshed space is no doubt going to be a favourite for residents in Maryland and the surrounding areas of Wallsend, Fletcher, and Shortland.

Whether you live in the area and are keen to check out the new venue, consider yourself a bit of a pub connoisseur, or are on the lookout for a new family-friendly venue, drop into Maryland Tavern and see what the fuss is all about.