The white umbrellas have been swapped for chocolate ones with a watermelon outline. There are 150 new seats outside, including swivel bar stools dotted along the wharf, which are sure to be prime real estate come sunset. The beers are now coming from the Sunshine State, and the food is looking and tasting better than ever. The only thing that’s stayed the same at Manly’s historic waterside pub is the big blue ocean views out the front. That’s because Wharf Bar, a Manly institution, has transformed into Felons Manly, now owned by the team behind Brisbane’s much-loved craft brewery. That sound you may hear is the faint cry from Northern Beaches folks, but don’t fear – it’s not all bad news. In fact, there’s a lot to like about the new-look seaside boozer. And this is coming from a born-and-bred local.
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Take the drinks line-up, for example. On the taps, you’ll see Felons Crisp Lager, Galaxy Haze and an Australian Pale Ale, alongside barrel-aged and seasonal, limited-edition brews, including a Japanese Rice Lager specifically brewed for Manly. The team says that for every glass of Japanese Rice Lager sold, one item of plastic will be removed from Sydney Harbour. How good!
Not into hops? No worries. Bubbles, non-alcoholic drinks and fun cocktails are also on the menu – our pick is the Fast Ferry (Aperol, Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz Gin, watermelon, lime, tonic and mint).
The food menu has also been taken up a notch, thanks to its complete overhaul by Rockpool Bar & Grill’s former culinary director, Corey Costelloe, current chef-owner of Marrickville’s bistro 20 Chapel. Expect pub classics featuring top-notch produce, including plenty of fresh seafood. Ruby-coloured slices of tuna come topped with shallots, capers and fresh lemon; Clarence River baby octopus is paired with lemon, chilli and oregano; and the impress-your-mates seafood platter features freshly shucked oysters, king prawns, tuna and scallop crudo and condiments.
Other menu highlights include puffy Napoli-style pizzas, beef, chicken and fish burgers, an almighty parmy, and a cracking fish and chips served with mushy peas and a chunky, herby tartare.
The Felons team has introduced a music program featuring jazz, soul and funk bands most nights, plus DJs spinning disco and old-school hits. A weekly run club, beer and yoga sessions (fun), local charity events, sustainability workshops and collaborations with Manly’s art scene are also in the works – so watch this space.
“Manly couldn’t be a better fit for Felons. We want to embrace that laid-back surf village charm, providing a space where everyone – locals, visitors, friends, and family – can enjoy great beer and good times by the water. We’ve got plenty in store that we can’t wait to share with the Manly community,” said Dean Romeo, brand director for Felons.
If you haven't been to Manly recently, pack a towel and come to Felons for lunch – the vibe was on point when we visited.
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