The Argyle: A glamorous cocktail of old and new
The Argyle is undoubtedly one of the sexiest looking pubs in The Rocks (an area not otherwise known for its sexy looking pubs!), set in a gorgeous early 1800s sandstone building and sporting an extravagant interior refit by revered designer Michael McCann.
The Argyle’s entrance is a grand archway that leads you to a vast cobblestone courtyard, hemmed in by soaring original sandstone walls. Inside, some of the remnants from The Argyle's past life as a commercial storehouse can still be observed in the exposed wooden ceiling beams and the judicious use of recycled timber and stone. Mostly, though, The Argyle’s interiors are glamorously contemporary, with spidery metal chandeliers, caramel coloured leather banquettes, booths and day beds and a striking carved sandstone bar on the lower level. Upstairs, the atmosphere is chic and moody, with an intimate dancefloor and a DJ presiding over the crowd from a circular platform suspended from the roof. As odd as it sounds, make sure you check out the unisex bathroom downstairs which feature glowing giant ‘pods’ straight out of a 70s sci-fi movie.
With its fabulous selection of champagnes and top-notch cocktails by dedicated mixologists, The Argyle is perfect for a celebratory night out. The Mediterranean-inspired mod Oz menu too, is a surprise – not overly pricey yet well above and beyond standard pub grub fodder. Start by sharing plates of fried onion rings with house-made parmesan mayo, or chorizo braised in apple cider. The beef croquettes are made of slow-cooked beef cheeks and served with pea puree, and there’s also kingfish ceviche with candied sweet potato, and Serrano ham wrapped around a potato puree, poached quail egg and herb filling. Seriously good. Crisp, fluffy Spanish churros with chocolate sauce are a sublime way to end the meal.
The Argyle is a massive venue but it gets seriously busy on the weekends, so arrive early to avoid too much scrutiny by the occasionally picky bouncers. Once inside, the staff are generally very amicable, managing the swelling crowds with calm smiles and a welcome sense of fun.
Posted by Fiona Davies
