The Argyle

If you have self-esteem issues and you want your sense of fashion vindicated by respected style gurus, then you’ll find feel good getting into the Argyle. So they might be more lenient during the day, which was probably the only reason why I gained entry for lunch. It’s not a bad place, a bit of a castle with the cobble stone open air courtyard and walkway a certainty for a rolled ankle, especially for the black and white leather loafer and stiletto brigade that frequent. Not plush inside but a forest of thick wooden pillars and boxed booths for chilling out.

For the hungry, the Asian influenced “Eat Me” side of the menu has some interesting options that hedges its bet with diversified cuisines. Peking duck fried rice with shredded lettuce had the sweetness of hoisin but could have done with a less heavy hand with the oil. Butter chicken served with snow peas, pappadum and streamed rice not necessary. The house club sandwich, a version of CLT fares better, the Wagyu beef burger gets props, especially the spritely spiced, crispy wedges as a side. Stuff from the land of the rising sun comes to the rescue; sushi and sashimi benefits from having a respected sushi chef on board for consultations. The stand to share comes with fresh tuna, salmon, kingfish, a ceviche style sashimi and soft shell crab, spicy tuna and avocado sushi rolls. A Japanese high tea if you will.

You’d be taking a bit of a gamble on the food at the Argyle to make you feel better, with some good, some bad. Not to worry, your bet’s hedged, turn the page and “Drink Me”.


2.5 / 5 yums!
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Where? 18 Argyle St, The Rocks, NSW
What? Average main $20