New chapter in village pub life
Refurbished Auldhouse Arms back in business
The new landlord of the Auldhouse Arms is excited to show people all the work that has been going on over the last few months.
Marco Sarao recently took the keys to the building and has been hard at work to make the place his own.
Known for his work at the multi-award winning Swan Inn in Eaglesham, Marco and management hope to replicate that success in Auldhouse.
It was purchased from previous owner Pauline O’Donnell, who had transformed the quiet country pub into a bustling bistro.
And the News got an exclusive first look round the new restaurant last week, which has been named ‘The Allus’ in a nod to the bar’s local nickname.
Marco said: “We have been hard at work for around four months in the restaurant trying to get it perfect ahead of our opening.
“Really we want to use the skills and traits we have from the Swan and make the next step up.
“We were limited with space in the Swan. The Allus is a lot bigger, meaning we can try new things.
“Since October, the restaurant has had a complete refurb. We planned to open in December but there was a number of setbacks.”
Entering from the back of the building, you are greeted with two huge flower walls and a sign directing you to the bar or the restaurant.
Turning right through the restaurant door, you are greeted by the brand new furnishings that Marco and his team have been working on all this time.
The Allus has a Scottish theme, with Scottish art-work on the walls and custom-made tables made by Paul Hodgkiss Designs.
The tables stand out as they feature Scottish treats such as miniature whisky bottles and Tunnocks tea cakes.
Marco said: “It is a Scottish theme and that is reflected throughout.
“The menu is also based around Scottish food and phrases. For example, we have called our sharing platters ‘munchies’ and our seafood menu is titled ‘Doon The Water’.
“There are also some Scottish twists on the menu that makes it unique, for example the gravy for our steak pie comes in a funnel and you pour it yourself.”
There are also a number of special items in the restaurant. A table was flown in from Greece and is made using old Greek olive boxes.
The bar in the restaurant is also brand new, with lighting controlled remotely and brand new beers on offer.
And beside the bar is the brand new Whisky cabinet, complete with a selection of top-ofthe-range Scotch whisky.
Marco also praised his staff for the commitment they have shown in the run-up to the opening.
He thoroughly praised staff member Megan Hoad, who has been doing all the behind the scenes work, such as menus, without any recognition.
And there is still more to come from Marco and team, as he has plans to create a brand new, large urban beer garden.
Marco said: “What we promise from The Allus is fresh food, quality and great service. This is the next step up for us after The Swan Inn and we are more than ready.”
The opening is this weekend and all further details can be found on The Auldhouse Arms Facebook page.