About This Pub
Ah, The Sawyer's Arms – it's one of those pubs that just feels like a proper slice of Manchester history, doesn't it? Tucked away on Deansgate, this place has been pouring pints since the 1700s, and you can really sense that old-school charm as soon as you step inside. I love how they've kept things traditional with their focus on perfect pints and hearty British classics like pies and fish and chips; it's spot on for a casual catch-up with mates over a few drinks. The ambiance is just lovely, especially if you're after that warm, welcoming feel in a city centre spot. But, let's be honest, it's not all roses – I've heard a few tales of food coming out a bit uneven, like overcooked starters that leave you a tad disappointed, and the service can sometimes lag behind, with issues like buggy ordering systems or items suddenly off the menu. Still, with a solid 4.2 rating from plenty of visitors, it's worth a go if you're in the area; just keep your expectations balanced, and you'll likely have a grand time swapping stories over a drink or two.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The historic charm of this Grade II-listed building is absolutely captivating; it's one of Manchester's oldest pubs, dating back to the 1700s, which really adds a lovely touch of character to your visit.
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They've got a solid selection of classic British pub grub, like unbeatable pies and fish and chips, and from what I've heard, it's generally spot on when it's good.
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The ambiance is spot on for a relaxed afternoon or evening out – it's in a prime city centre spot, making it easy to pop in for a pint and soak up that welcoming vibe.
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With an overall rating of 4.2, it's clear that folks often leave feeling chuffed, especially if you're after a traditional pub experience with a bit of history thrown in.
Cons
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Food quality can be a bit hit or miss; for instance, some dishes like calamari might come out overcooked, which is a shame when you're looking forward to a proper meal.
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Service isn't always up to scratch – there have been mentions of it being a tad slow or unhelpful, and the table ordering system has had its bugs, making things a bit frustrating at times.
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Availability of menu items seems inconsistent, especially on busier days; you might find yourself going through a few options that aren't on offer, which can put a damper on things.
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While it's open seven days a week, the varying opening times could confuse you if you're planning a visit, and it might not always hit the mark for a seamless experience.
Contact Information
138 Deansgate, Greater, Manchester M3 2RP
+441618342133
Pub
Closed today
Opening Hours
| Monday | 11:30 - 23:00 |
| Tuesday | 11:30 - 23:00 |
| Wednesday | 11:30 - 23:00 |
| Thursday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
| Friday | 11:30 - 00:00 |
| Saturday | 10:00 - 00:00 |
| Sunday (Today) | 10:00 - 22:00 |
Recent Reviews
Visited here on the 27th April. I ordered the dusted calamari to start and the ocean fish and chips. Some of the Calamari was overcooked and some were fine. The server said she could take it back to the kitchen, but I were so hungry and could've eaten a scabby dog...I scoffed it up. The ocean fish and chips was delicious, but I couldn't eat it all, so I took my fish fillets with me to eat on the tram home. Server was very busy, but attentive and bar service was quick
Food was great, the ambiance was wonderful.
Service could be a bit better, and the @ the table ordering system had some bugs which made the experience a bit troublesome.
Would go back!
Edit: feel I have to update this as I went again to try some of the food options for lunch. I had to ask through 4 different bits of food which they either didn’t have or didn’t do on the weekends…. I understand the place is busy but i thought going through 4 different options at the weekend was a bit ridiculous.
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Had food and a few pints at the Sawyers Arms. Personally I would’ve given 2.5 stars but the below is a bit out of the control of the pub so I’ll give 3.
It is a lovely looking bar and good location in Manchester. I booked because they had Game Suet pudding (one of my favourites) and a lentil vegetable cottage pie that I had noticed on the menus previously. Two things me and my girlfriend really enjoy. When I went to order both of these the server told me they were both out… really disappointing as this was literally the reason I booked. My girlfriend has the fish and chips (really good) and I had the “award winning” steak and ale pie. The pie I thought was really average and tasted pretty boring. Fish was good but portion was far too big.
Value for money it is really good, especially for the city centre. But I was definitely expecting more, plus also looking forward to the two dishes that were out of stock didn’t help the experience much. Overall not terrible!
Around the corner from Yotel, the pub was a lovely spot to have a drink and some great pub food.
Great Pub I enjoyed my afternoon here
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