After facing some challenging years, an iconic Skagit County staple is making a comeback as a go-to spot for locals and visitors. Under new ownership, Conway’s Pub and Eatery is being refreshed with a focus on revitalizing the neighborhood atmosphere while preserving the pub’s roots. Long known for its oysters, burgers, and dive bar charm, Conway’s is once again the lively gathering place that patrons enjoyed for decades.
Photograph by Ashley Crerar
“We wanted to restore the pub to its glory days and create a community feel again,” says Owner Nate Sheridan. “So many locals have come in here and thanked us; they wanted this back so badly.”
When Nate and his wife Connie purchased Conway’s Pub and Eatery in February, it wasn’t their first encounter with the establishment. As lifelong Skagitonians, their connection to the pub dates to 1991, when Nate’s aunt and uncle first purchased it and began shaping it into the beloved landmark it is today. Since then, the Sheridans have built memories there, as young adults and as parents with their kids growing up just down the street. Although they didn’t get involved in operations until they purchased the pub this year, it felt like a natural next step to carry on the legacy.
Photograph by Ashley Crerar
With a fresh coat of paint and some cosmetic updates, Conway’s has a new look while retaining its familiar ambiance. The pub offers indoor and outdoor family-friendly dining along with a full-bar. The menu still boasts longtime favorites, including their signature burgers, while adding appetizer and vegetarian options. Classic traditions such as Waldo Wednesday (steak night special) and Spaghetti Mondays have also returned. Meanwhile the popular outdoor oyster bar, revamped over the summer, continues to serve up crowd-pleasers like oyster shooters, BBQ oysters, and their legendary pan-fried oysters.
Photograph by Ashley Crerar
“Our burgers and oysters have always been the biggest draw here—especially the pan-fried oysters, sautéed oysters, and oyster shooters,” explains Connie. “That’s what people ask for the most. So, we simplified the menu to focus on the favorites and gave them updated names to keep things fresh.”
The weekend scene at the pub has been re-energized with entertainment again, including karaoke nights and performances by live bands. Families are welcome too, with plans to introduce regular kids’ trivia and karaoke nights for the younger diners. Bikers will continue to find a home at Conway’s, as it remains a favorite stop during the annual Oyster Run and the Ride for Our Troops Poker Run.
Photograph by Ashley Crerar
One of the minor changes you might notice is in the name, Conway’s Pub and Eatery (it used to be Conway, no possessive), emphasizing the sense of community that the Sheridans want to bring back to the pub. With a tight-knit staff and support of friends, family, and fellow business owners, they have seen long-time locals begin to return. Even though the journey for the couple has been consuming it has also been rewarding to revive the pub’s character that the area has missed.
“We’re just really thankful to get the opportunity to do this,” they say, capturing the spirit behind Conway’s revival. 18611 Main St., Conway, 360.445.4733, conwayspubandeatery.com
