Maylands Hotel sold to Matthews Hotel Group, to undergo revamp

ONE of the oldest pubs in Adelaide’s east has new owners — and they are vowing to restore it to its former glory.

Mayalnds Hotel has new owners

ONE of the oldest pubs in Adelaide’s east has new owners — and they are vowing to restore it to its former glory.

The Matthews Hotel Group bought The Maylands Hotel for an undisclosed price in February.

The pub had been controlled by receivers Ferrier Hodgson since October and was previously owned by businessman Ray Aoukar.

Matthews Hotel Group co-owner Scott Matthews, whose family owns The Feathers Hotel in Burnside, hoped to make The Maylands an integral part of the community.

“As a family we decided to purchase The Maylands Hotel as we believed it was a fantastic opportunity to grow such a beautiful and iconic landmark, and restore the hotel to its former glory,” Mr Matthews said.

“Many of the locals and regulars have let us know how excited they are that we have taken ownership of The Maylands Hotel and they are looking forward to seeing how we plan to make this hotel great again.”

The Maylands Hotel was built in the 1880s.

A decade ago, the pub’s front bar attracted a packed crowd on Friday and Saturday nights and its restaurant was usually busy.

However, in recent years, the pub has proved less popular with customers.

Mr Matthews is planning a “cosmetic facelift”, including new furniture and a paint job.

The front bar will remain and the pokies room will be upgraded.

“A new food and wine menu has already been implemented, which we know will appease both pub food lovers plus those looking for that something more,” Mr Matthews said.

“A hotel such as The Maylands is the heart of the community.

“It is somewhere you can meet friends for dinner or a drink, take the kids to … or hold a special function or event in our huge function rooms.”

The Matthews Hotel Group also own The Flagstaff Hotel, The Mansfield Park Hotel, The Buckingham Arms Hotel, as well as pubs in Mount Gambier and Whyalla.