In April, the Artemus Group acquired Manly Wharf, our iconic welcoming port for 9 million visitors each year, launching pad for the almighty Manly Ferries, and picturesque community hub and meeting spot for Northern Beaches locals of all ages.
Owners of renowned riverside precinct, Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane’s foodie haven and creativity hotbed, Artemus Group founders and directors Adam Flaskas, Paul Henry and CEO Luke Fraser are committed to spending time consulting the local Manly community, making initial improvements to the Wharf whilst continuing to operate business as usual, wasting no time in promptly revamping Manly Wharf Bar.
“Sydney’s Manly Wharf precinct is our latest endeavour with unbound potential,” says founder and director Adam Flaskas. “We are committed to revitalising waterfront precincts and transforming them into thriving community and cultural hubs, and hope to bring that same energy, community focus and vision to Manly.
“We are champions of local talent and suppliers and are proud to be building a legacy for future generations to enjoy. Working closely with the community, we’re excited to bring a family-friendly, premium food and beverage offering to Manly Wharf.”
Manly Wharf Bar’s fresh look is one of the initial improvements being made as part of the long-term revitalisation strategy, the menu having been revamped with engagement from former Culinary Director of Hunter Street Hospitality and Rockpool Bar and Grill, Corey Costelloe. Bringing his philosophy of simple cooking and best-in-class produce to serve superb quality, pub-style food, Corey’s extensive knowledge of seafood and beef aligns with The Wharf’s commitment to showcasing the incredible work of local farmers and fishermen.
Together, Costelloe, group executive chef Shaun Hyland, group kitchen manager Mat Brazier and Manly Wharf Bar and restaurant’s new executive chef Chris Augustyn have curated a new Mediterranean-style menu that focuses on a wholesome and uncomplicated approach, featuring smaller grazing plates; pub classics; burgers and bowls; a dedicated pizza menu; along with an impressive range of local meats, simply grilled with additional sides.
Standout dishes include Clarence River baby octopus with lemon, chilli and oregano; 36-hour fermented pizza dough, kick-started with a splash of Felons Australian Pale Ale before being topped with the fresh, local ingredients; prawn salad with green papaya, coriander, chilli, peanuts and a nahm jim dressing; whole butterflied whiting from Coffs Harbour, NSW; and a 600g CopperTree Farms 45-day, dry-aged, bone-in ribeye.
Manly’s Mediterranean meets surf-village charm has inspired the food and drink experience designed to complement slower days by the water enjoying Wharf Bar’s prime waterside location. Like the food menu, the drinks list is simple but delicious with a mix of refreshing cocktails; predominantly Australian wines; a thoughtful selection of spirits; a mix of Brisbane brewed Felons beer, alongside other crowd favourite brews; non-alcoholic alternatives; and soft drinks.
Not straying far from the Aussie pub grass roots, The Wharfy’s Sunday Meat Raffle is off the charts thanks to the legends at CopperTree Farm, enjoy paddock-to-plate quality along the iconic Sydney harbourfront and be in it to win it to stock your fridge with the country’s finest cuts. Money raised goes to support local businesses and initiatives Manly LSC, Local Kind, Bold & Beautiful Swim, North Steyne Boardriders, Bear Cottage, and Royal Far West.
Finally, a great pub is nothing without exceptional nightly specials, so giddy up to Wharfy for Monday Burger Nights, Tuesday Pizza Nights, Wednesday Grilled Half Chooks, and Thursday Steak Evenings, $19 deals the lot of them. Bargain!
Visit wharfbar.com.au and follow @manlywharfhotel on socials.
Pop in to see the revamped Manly Wharf Bar first chance you get.