About Sawmill Run Restaurant
The Sawmill Run Restaurant is named in honor of the two sawmills that once operated on this very spot. The last was run by Tony Zimmerman, a true Mount Lemmon pioneer. Tony was a man of many talents — a Tucson middle school teacher, a beekeeper, a sawmill operator, and a cabin builder whose craftsmanship still stands strong on the mountain today.
For years, Sawmill Run was owned by Tony's son, Bob Zimmerman, who carried forward his father's determination and love for Mount Lemmon. With both Tony and Bob now having passed, we honor their memory and the foundation they built.
Today, the restaurant is led by Chef-Owner Nick Avram, Tony's great-grandson, who is proud to continue the family tradition. At Sawmill Run, Nick and the team are committed to preserving the same grit, work ethic, and sense of community that Tony and Bob embodied — while serving hearty, scratch-made food that brings together locals and visitors alike.