PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Housed in Sydney’s historic Rocks precinct, The Argyle, like much of its surroundings boasts a part in Australia’s history: to date it is one of the nation’s oldest surviving commercial buildings. And it is grand; high archway entrances, a cobblestone courtyard and wooden floors and beams. It also happens to be one of the area’s most modern hot spots, rich in contemporary chandeliers, funky booths and giant red alfresco lamps. A very swish DJ station even ensures that it is pumping and ever in the minds of the city’s in-the-know crowd. But while The Argyle features very prominently as a venue, a bar and even a club, it also draws the corporate, pre-theatre and foodie crowds with its simple, modern Australian menu and impressive beverage selection.
Despite its suave setting, The Argyle is among the most affordable restaurants in the Rocks area. The selection of meals on offer ranges between pub-style favourites and fantastic share plates. You may want to start your decision process with some garlic ciabatta. Options like a prawn, fetta and avocado salad, Wagyu beef burger and Boston Bay mussel pot are fantastic alternatives for soloists and diners who don’t like to share, but for anybody with no such hang-ups, the share plates are fantastic. For a pre-theatre nibble or a shared entree, the “dipping stand” offers a tower of dips, vegetables, chips and wedges. If you’d like something a little more substantial try the “Argyle ocean board” which comes packed with all sorts of seafood goodies or the “Argyle BBQ platter” which will satisfy even the most carnivorous of diners with a meaty selection served with toasted baguette, coleslaw and dips. The Argyle also has some fantastic, constantly changing, mid-week food specials like “All you can eat schnitzel Mondays”, “Noodle market Wednesdays” and “Half-price cocktail Thursdays”.
Agnes Gajewska, February 2010
DETAILS
Stylish yet relaxed, The Argyle is situated in one of Australia’s oldest surviving commercial buildings and is a fabulous mix of historic and ultra-modern. There are five diverse bars on site, including a sophisticated private lounge and cobblestone courtyard bar..
Throughout the day, The Argyle is the ideal place to enjoy excellent Mod Oz cuisine and a fine selection of international beers and wines. You can get cosy with your best mates in a private booth, or head outside into the charming open courtyard to soak up some Sydney history.
After dark, The Argyle atmosphere is chilled. Subtle lighting and smooth sounds from a world-class DJ line-up set the mood, with delicious cocktails and mouthwatering menus creating the perfect destination for after-work drinks and dinner, special events and late-night fun.