Surly's changes hands but American menu to stay

There's a new sheriff in the house at American tavern Surly's.

The Surry Hills venue, which slid into the long-time site of Table for 20 and Sticky Bar, opened four years ago at the height of Sydney's fascination with American edibles.

Owner Brody Petersen from The Parlour Group confirmed the sale.

"I sold it to the Darlin Group," he says, referring to the operators of Li'l Darlin, among other venues.

While Petersen wants to concentrate on growing his existing restaurants, which include Riley Street Garage, Surly's fans can relax.

A Darlin Group spokesman says its business as usual at Surly's.

The house-smoked brisket, pulled meats and American beers aren't going anywhere.