The Argyle unveils ‘The Lake Room’ private dining space in Babylon

What had sat for decades as a cluttered upstairs office filled with papers and boxes is now an intimate new dining experience at The Argyle.

The Babylon restaurant has unveiled “The Lake Room,” a 20-seat private dining space overlooking the main floor — created from what owner Niall Crowe of Lily Flanagan’s Restaurant Group called an “underutilized” area.

“It was just a pretty large office, and we were like, we really don’t need this,” said Crowe, whose company reopened The Argyle in 2024 under its stewardship.

The Lake Room opened about two weeks ago, shortly after St. Patrick’s Day, following a quick three-to-four-week transformation.

The space closely mirrors the look and feel downstairs, with high wood paneling and a warm, classic aesthetic. The name itself is a nod to nearby Argyle Lake and the historic Argyle Hotel, which dates back to the 1800s, Crowe said.

“It’s very nice for intimate parties or rehearsal dinners, cocktail hours, bridal showers or any family celebrations,” Crowe said.

The idea was driven in part by demand.

“Over the past year, we’ve seen a significant increase in inquiries for smaller groups, and realized there really wasn’t much available locally,” said catering manager Holly Raudies. “This was a big driving factor in creating a new space that feels elevated, comfortable, and welcoming, while still offering a sense of exclusivity for guests.”

The restaurant works closely with hosts to customize events, from menu selections to service style, with flexible catering options to match different visions and budgets, she said.

“Our goal is to make every event feel special, while making the hosting experience as easy and stress-free as possible,” Raudies said.

In addition to private events, The Lake Room is also available for regular dining, offering guests a quieter, more secluded alternative to the main floor.

Scroll down for more photos by Eric Micallef.