Pymble has a long history steeped in timber and steel, dating back to 1805 when the areas first ever sawmill supplied the early settlers of Sydney. Nuggets of history like this have been known to inspire businesses, and The Sawmill is the latest to find its namesake by looking to the past, an inspiration which is embedded in the venue’s sleek design. Timber panels and a large corten sign mark the entrance to this cafe-by-day, restaurant-by-night establishment, flowing through to to a interior that’s heavy with recycled timbers and exposed brickwork, vintage sawmill relics (like a large encased circular saw) and an impressive wood-fired oven. The aroma said to float around the venue should be enough to let one in on what the approach to the menu is; the kitchen is headed by two chefs – a Head Chef, Ruben Castellaz (ex-Fratelli Fresh), and a pastry chef, Rocco Speranza – both of whom are from regional Italy and have thus maintained a focus on bright, generous Italian dining.
The Italian influence is light during the day, with a cafe menu featuring hearty breakfasts like the Zucchini and Corn Fritters served with poached eggs, feta, and tomato relish, and the Pancakes with apple and blueberry compote with an optional scoop of salted caramel gelato. Indulgence creeps into the picture for lunch with the menu reading with items like the Sawmill Burger (because, burgers) with truffle chive chips and other big servings, which also extend to the healthier options like the Lamb Salad with pumpkin, quinoa, goats cheese, spinach, and walnuts.
It’s dinner that’s of particular interest though, as that wood fired oven comes into play to pump out large pizza that features on a menu alongside antipasto and homemade pastas like a Gnocchi with smoked Scarmoza cheese, hazelnuts, butter, and safe, as well as mains like a Slow Cooked Lamb Shank served with polenta and porcini mushrooms.
House-roasted coffee is a major focus for the menu, served under The Sawmill’s own brand, Italian Street Collection. There’s also teas sourced from artisan supplier Rabbit Hole, a carefully curated list of wines, signature cocktails, and beers on tap.
The Sawmill
Address: 7 Duneba Avenue, West Pymble
Contact: (02) 9498 6565
Website: www.thesawmill.com.au
Hours: Mon 7am-3:30pm, 5:30pm-10pm; Wed-Thurs 7am-3:30pm, 5:30pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 7am-3:30pm, 5:30pm-10:30pm; Sun 8am-3pm, 5:30pm-9pm
Images supplied and used with permission.
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