Manly Wharf Bavarian served its last Jäger Schnitty, Mango Hefe and Knoblauch Brot back in late January. Before you could blink, the München outpost was boarded up, the venue quickly hidden from the summer rays to bask in swirling rumours of what the Artemus Group – owners of the Manly Wharf precinct since April 2024 – would do with the treasured harbour front site blessed with the picture-perfect sunset views.
Well, swirl no more, and prepare for Felons Seafood, a new seafood-focused dining room and bar opening late June, promising a relaxed, produce-driven dining experience celebrating the best of Australia’s oceans and coastlines, and led by Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2025 young chef of the year, Luke Bourke. A proud Palawa man, born on Darug Country, and alumnus of the National Indigenous Culinary Institute, Luke has spent the past decade honing his craft as an apprentice through to sous chef at Rockpool Bar & Grill Sydney, one of Australia’s most respected fine dining institutions.
The venue will combine the laid-back energy of Felons Brewing Co. with a refined yet approachable menu, designed by Bourke in collaboration with former Rockpool Culinary Director Corey Costelloe. Reunited at Felons Seafood, together they bring extensive experience and a shared dedication to showcasing premium Australian seafood.
“We’re thrilled to have Luke Bourke lead the kitchen at Felons Seafood,” said Adam Flaskas, co-founder and director of Artemus Group and Felons Brewing Co. “His experience and vision will bring a fresh perspective to the seafood scene in Manly, and we look forward to offering locals and visitors a place to enjoy fresh, simple and high-quality seafood right on Sydney Harbour.”
Focused on responsibly sourced Australian seafood, paired with Felons’ signature brews and a curated list of crisp wines and coastal cocktails, Felons Seafood will offer a seasonal menu featuring raw bar favourites, whole grilled fish, and reimagined seafood classics – highlighting Bourke’s contemporary style and Indigenous heritage, alongside Costelloe’s simple, produce-driven approach and commitment to using best-in-class local produce, all served with an ocean breeze and views across Sydney Harbour.
“I’m excited to be back working alongside Corey to bring this vision to life,” said Bourke. “Our goal for Felons Seafood is to showcase honest flavours and exceptional produce in a thoughtful yet approachable way. We’ll be working closely with local fishers and growers to keep the menu fresh, simple, and grounded in the best of what our local waters and producers have to offer.”
“Felons Seafood represents an exciting new chapter for Felons Brewing Co.,” says Brand Director, Dean Romeo. “We’re continuing our commitment to community-focused hospitality by creating a space that reflects the laid-back spirit of the Australian coastline. Positioned on the edge of picturesque Manly Cove, it’s a place you can perch up for a drink and a light snack or settle in for a lunch or dinner to remember.”
And how to keep Manly’s iconic yet opportunistic seagulls with a hearty penchant for fish and chip delights from pinching everyone’s tucker? Felons has enlisted the niche but essential services of Seagull Patrol to keep patron’s Seafood safe from beaky local swoopers. They’ll have to focus on more gull-ible targets on the Corso.
Opening late June, Felons Seafood celebrates fresh Australian seafood, nestled in the heart of Manly Cove. Follow @felonsseafood for all updates.