Making a new bar appear like it has always been there. It’s a particular skill. The Duchess of Argyle materialised in Finnieston in February and has successfully blended into the neighbourhood. It looks established, it fits in. The venue joins nearby successful sister venues Porter & Rye, The Finnieston and Lebowski’s and The Drugstore Social.
The idea for the latest hangout, was a conceptual mash-up. “Imagine a traditional Victorian boozer transformed into a brash and accessible Mexican party bar”, owner Graham Suttle told Glasgowist when the bar launched with a tacos and tequila night, complete with mariachi band.
The Duchess can lay claim to Tapatio tequila’s only margarita machine in the world. There’s DJs and shenanigans at the weekend but the daytime vibe is more sedate.
The interior is classy, faux-period saloon. Look for the subversive Day of the Dead and Mexican inspired design touches. There’s more here than meets the eye.
We moved to the best seats in the house, the snug booth to the right of the door to study the menu. It didn’t take long. Short, focused, to the point. This is a good thing.
There’s a selection of antojitos – Mexican street food tapas. Ideal bar snacks. Think jalapeno poppers (£5), crunchy tabasco chicken wings with red chilli and ginger (£5) and a cobb salad with Monterey Jack cheese, black beans and charred corn (£5). Bring friends so you can order a procession of these.
We’re here for the tacos. Served on two soft flour tortillas, they’re dressed with really interesting combinations. Here’s our top three:
#1 Spit roast Apache chicken, white onion, verdita, salsa, crema (£6)
#2 Yucatan spiced langoustine, avocado, pickled shallots, coconut crema (£7)
#3 Tempura cauliflower, Apache beer cheese, jalapenos, pickled pink onions.
You’ll find a dedicated brunch menu at weekends and regular specials. They like to mix things up. Talking of mixing, all cocktails are £7.50, which represents good value on this street. Try the Dirty Duchess – Ketel One Oranje, plum bitters, lemon, egg, sugar and blackberry dust. They are equally adept at catering for liquid lunches.
The Duchess of Argyle
1038 Argyle Street
Glasgow
G3 8LX
T: 0141 237 5020
Bensenville, IL 60106