By Anne Das
Old Town has its share of surprises, but few as distinctive as the one moored along Concubine Lane 3 (aka Market Lane). The Argo Tavern & Lounge is the creation of a former sailor who traded open waters for the charm of Ipoh, bringing his seafarer’s spirit to Old Town.
The founder, James Wong, spent more than two decades as a Marine Chief Engineer, sailing container vessels across the world. When he returned to Ipoh, he wanted to create something that reflected that chapter of his life.
For James, The Argo was born from both interest and intention. He wanted to revive the kind of old-school bar that focuses on good drinks, good company, and a sense of belonging. It is his way of giving something back to the city where he grew up.
Together with his sister Jasmine Wong and business partner Phoebe Siew (who also runs Dang Yakitori Bar nearby), the trio transformed a long, narrow heritage shophouse into a space that feels both nostalgic and new.
“We used recycled timber, my background at sea, and Phoebe’s love for rustic design,” says James. “It just made sense to build a ship.” The name Argo, inspired by the ship in Greek mythology, felt right for three partners setting out on uncharted waters.
And that’s exactly what they built – a bar shaped like a ship’s hull, made from reclaimed wood with rope accents and warm brass details. The lighting casts a gentle amber glow, setting a relaxed mood. Music drifts between slow rock, jazz, and acoustic covers, perfect for conversation and late-night company.
Every part of the space has purpose. The ship-shaped bar takes centre stage, drawing attention with its timber curves, ropes, and brass accents. Above it, the mezzanine lounge offers cozy nooks for small groups and couples on date nights, while the dining area doubles as a gallery for local makers, giving Market Lane a creative pulse of its own.
The cocktail menu takes its cues from sea legends. You’ll find Flying Dutchman, Mighty Mo, La Dama Negra, and The Argonaut, each mixed with its own character. A must-try, the Captain Sparrow, blends dark rum, calamansi, lime, mint, and brown sugar.
For non-drinkers, there are mocktails, teas, and coffee.
The kitchen keeps things simple. We had porky fries, a mini cheese platter, and edamame for light sharing. For something heartier, there’s grilled scallops, fresh oysters, and squid-ink seafood pasta, made with an old-school recipe. The menu will continue to evolve with the space, introducing more sea-themed dishes in the coming months.
COMING SOON: Above the tavern, three storeys are being transformed into The Argo Lodge, a boutique backpacker stay for travellers and creatives. With a separate entrance, it will offer eight rooms, including female-only and mixed dorms.
When asked what he wants people to feel when they visit, “Maybe surprise,” he says with a grin. “Most people don’t expect a place like this in Ipoh. I want them to feel like they’ve stepped into another world, even if it’s just for a drink.”
📍 The Argo Tavern & Lounge
39, Jalan Sultan Iskandar, Ipoh Old Town
📞 012-553 3939 (James / Jasmine)
📅 Hours: Open from 5:30 PM till late (subject to change)
📸 Instagram: @theargolounge
📘 Facebook: The Argo Tavern & Lounge
