By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Camden’s historic heart is warming up this Winter, with the fiery revival of a once-lost landmark. Rising from the ashes of the 2020 blaze that devastated Whiteman’s Arcade, Argyle House has officially opened its doors, marking a bold new chapter for Western Sydney’s culinary landscape.
After a multi-million-dollar transformation, the heritage site has been reimagined into a dramatic, design-led dining destination. Behind the project are husband-and-wife duo Nichole and Morney Schlebusch, who’ve poured passion, purpose and a generous helping of ambition into the venue.
Their vision is to put Camden firmly on the map as a must-visit for food lovers, not just from the region - but across the state and beyond.
At the centre of this bold new offering is Argyle House’s unforgettable dining experience: a rotating seven-course degustation menu served in private rooftop dining domes. Think immersive theatre, only with edible acts and centre-stage flavours.
Each dome is an intimate world of its own, where guests are treated to a uniquely curated menu that changes nightly from Wednesday to Saturday. These experiential menus are equal parts storytelling, science and surprise - designed to linger in your memory long after the final course.
At the helm of the kitchen is celebrated Camden-born Chef Jason McQueen, whose resume includes stints at Sydney icons like Quay, Aria and Bel Mondo. Jason brings a fine-dining pedigree to his hometown, crafting dishes that blend global influences with native ingredients and Modern Australian flair.
His menu leans heavily into umami-rich flavours and live-fire cooking, honouring both traditional technique and local produce.
"We wanted to create a space the community didn’t realise was missing - but soon won’t want to live without,” Jason says.
The result is a symphony of flavour, fire and finesse. Signature dishes include a melt-in-your-mouth MB6+ Wagyu striploin grilled over flame and a three-day miso-marinated Patagonian toothfish - delicate, umami-rich and unforgettably tender.
Chef DeFusion, Sean John Barago adds his own global touch, drawing on classical culinary training and cultural diversity to elevate every plate.
Desserts at Argyle House are no afterthought either. From the Campari-poached pear to an architectural ‘chocolate sushi’ plate, each sweet finale is inventive and playful. Even the drinks menu leans into decadence. Try the Frangelico affogato if you want to end on a (boozy) high note.
While the food is unforgettable, the venue’s design is equally a work of art. Spearheaded by COOOP Studio, it celebrates the building’s storied past while embracing Camden’s modern future. Across its multiple levels, Argyle House houses a collection of curated spaces - from moody, art-filled dining rooms to a rooftop terrace perfect for golden-hour cocktails and special events.
"We’re thrilled to welcome Argyle House to Camden,” says Andrew Osborne, representing the building’s owners. "It’s a venue that truly delivers on quality, creativity and community spirit.”
Open daily, Argyle House invites Sydneysiders and locals alike to discover Western Sydney’s newest dining landmark - one where the atmosphere is as deliciously crafted as the menu.
Whether you're marking a special occasion or chasing a little midweek magic, this reimagined icon offers a new kind of hospitality: immersive, intimate and ignited by passion.
