Today, Felons Brewing Co. marks the expansion of its footprint at the Manly Wharf precinct with the opening of a new dining room and bar, Felons Seafood.
Representing a new chapter for the Brisbane-based brewery, the indoor-outdoor waterfront venue has capacity for 300 guests, offering a produce-led dining experience that celebrates responsibly sourced Australian seafood.
Adam Flaskas, Co-founder and Director of Artemus Group, says the group feels fortunate to play a role in the ongoing revitalisation of Manly Wharf.
“With Felons Seafood, our hope was to create something that feels true to Manly – a relaxed, welcoming space where people can enjoy fresh, local seafood and take in the beauty of the harbour. It’s a simple, coastal venue shaped by the warmth and spirit of the locals.”
Anchored by a 360-degree bar and four stainless steel tanks, the open-air venue spreads across a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, including a terrace with views across Manly Cove. Light coastal tones and natural textures capture the laid-back spirit of the Northern Beaches throughout.
Heading up the kitchen at Felons Seafood is acclaimed young chef Luke Bourke, who has curated a seasonal menu in collaboration with Artemus’ culinary consultant Corey Costelloe (ex-Rockpool).
Flaskas says the team are thrilled to have Bourke leading the kitchen.
“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.”
Together, the pair have developed a menu that brings together Bourke’s contemporary style and Indigenous heritage and Costello’s commitment to using best-in-class local produce. Highlights include raw bar favourites, whole grilled fish and reimagined seafood classics.
Bourke says: “I’m excited to be back working alongside Corey to bring this vision to life. 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.”
Patrons can still expect to find Felons’ signature beers, including the Felons Super Cold Crisp Lager – an ultra-smooth lager poured at -2°C and served in thick-walled glassware designed to hold the cold.
Meanwhile, the cocktail list puts a coastal lens on classic serves, such as the Salt & Vinegar Martini (oyster shell gin, caperberry brine and Chardonnay vinegar) and Seaside Old Fashioned (macadamia, coffee and a hint of salt). Other highlights include the Yuzu Break (Four Pillars Fresh Yuzu Gin, blue curacao and amaretto), Sunrise Spritz and Mandarin Americano.
A curated menu of wines is also available, celebrating Australia’s most famed winemaking regions alongside standout European varieties.
Felons expanded from its Brisbane home to Sydney’s Manly in October last year, with Felons Manly serving as a central feature of the group’s revitalisation of the Manly Wharf precinct.
Felons Brand Director, Dean Romeo, stated: “Felons Brewing Co. has already found a special place in the heart of Manly with our first venue, Felons Manly, at the Wharf, and we’re thrilled to deepen that connection with the launch of Felons Seafood.
“This picturesque location is the perfect backdrop for what we see as a new spiritual home for Felons – a space that champions simplicity, fresh Australian seafood, and our passion for great beer.”
Earlier this year, the brewery also shared plans to transform an unused supermarket within the precinct into a microbrewery and pub. The proposed venue is expected to include a microbrewery, bars and a kitchen with capacity for 700 patrons.
Take a look inside the venue:
