Lynne Mowbray

The newly refurbished 130-year-old Argyle Hotel in Maclean finally opened its door to the public, on Thursday last week.

Hotel owner Dhugal said that it’s been very busy and well supported by the locals and surrounding areas.

“People are happy with the food and service etc,” he said.

“We’ve got a good crew, of local chefs and local staff, and we’ve trained them up to how we want them.

“The comments have been positive. There’s been a few little teething areas along the way, which is to be expected, but generally all the feedback from town has been positive.

“The foods been good and it’s a little bit different to what else is in town. All were trying to do is to create another space and another option for people to eat and meet in town.

“All our fruit and vege are local coming out of Grafton, our micro herbs come from here in town, local seafood, pork – we’re using Bangalow sweet pork, we’re using all our own beef from our farm, and processed locally at Casino. So, most of our product is sourced locally within about 100km from here.

“It’s good when you can source and support local producers.

“The building is part of the town, and everyone’s been very excited to see what’s happened over the last couple of years, from the renovations.

“It’s the towns building really and we’re just here to guide it in the right direction, for the people in town to use again,” he said.

First time customer, Laurel Moore, said that the food was absolutely delicious.

“There was a really good range of food, and all our meals were stunning, they were really lovely,” said Laurel.

“They catered for a ‘gluten free’ meal for me and the prices were good. We really enjoyed it and this lovely location.

“The building is amazing and just perfect, and all the different areas, are so beautifully done, and the gardens are so nice.

“I liked it so much, I’m back on Wednesday and bringing my family,” she said.

Saturday was the second visit for Lee Johns and Toni Skinner, who said that they shared the chicken wings and the salt and pepper squid, and both were absolutely beautiful.

“The setting here is absolutely brilliant,” said Lee.

“To sit here on the verandah and look up the main street, is just stunning. The guys have done a tremendous job.

“I’ve heard the steaks are great, so next week I’ll try the steak,” he said.