Argo Bar and Restaurant, Buderim reopens under new owner

An experienced cafe owner has taken over a popular Buderim restaurant following its shock closure three months ago, with plans to take it to the “next level”.

Paul Dolan, owner of Grounded@Woombye and Grounded@Mooloolaba, is the new owner of Buderim restaurant Argo.

A Sunshine Coast hospitality business owner has expanded his reach reopening a popular Buderim restaurant as a wine-bar and coffee and cake spot.

Argo on Main St in Buderim closed down on March 17 after former owner Jason Taylor revealed a months-long struggle to find staff.

Less than three months later the restaurant is reopening under the same name but with a new feel and owner with Grounded at Woombye and Mooloolaba Paul Dolan at the helm.

Mr Dolan opened the Woombye business four years ago and recently celebrated the first anniversary of owning the Mooloolaba business. Argo is the first night-time venue he has owned.

Paul Dolan, owner of Grounded@Woombye and Grounded@Mooloolaba, is the new owner of Buderim restaurant Argo.

Mr Dolan said he wanted to keep the business’s name because it was successful when it was open and was “a great name”.

A new menu is being launched with a “European fusion” focus, Mr Dolan said, with plans to “take it to the next level”.

Some of the menu items include beef cheek vol-au-vent and yellowfin tuna tartare for entree and for mains confit duck, pumpkin gnocchi and dry-aged rib fillet.

He said one-third of the restaurant would be turned into a wine bar which would feature wines not typically found at stores.

Mr Dolan said he had always wanted to invest in Buderim and loved the area.

“The potential is huge,” he said.

The restaurant officially opened on Friday, June 2, serving “coffee and cakes” from 6.30am until 11.30am, lunch until 5pm, and dinner until late.

A cocktail hour will be run from 3pm to 5pm from Thursday, June 8.