.webp)
Love seafood, sunsets, and sipping something cold by the water? Felons Seafood, now at the former Manly Bavarian spot on the wharf, is about to be your new happy place.
It’s the latest venture from the crew behind Felons Brewing Co., and with Young Chef of the Year, Luke Bourke, at the helm, you’re in for something seriously special.
If you’ve ever knocked back a pint or two at Felons Brewing Co. on Manly Wharf, get ready for the same laid-back energy with a serious seafood glow-up at Felons Seafood. The Beaches' newest hotspot officially drops anchor at the Wharf in June, taking over the old Bavarian site, just next door to Hugos.
Locals and visitors will love that it hits the sweet spot between fancy and barefoot. Swing by straight from the ferry or a dip at the beach, grab some fresh kingfish, a cold cocktail, and watch the sky go peachy-pink.
Leading the charge in the kitchen is Luke Bourke, recently crowned The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide’s Young Chef of the Year 2025. Luke spent the past decade sharpening his skills at Sydney’s iconic Rockpool Bar and Grill before taking his talents abroad, touring Ireland with his twin brother (yep, he’s also a chef) and scored a spot on the team at the legendary Noma Australia pop-up at Barangaroo in 2016.
A proud Palawa man and graduate of the National Indigenous Culinary Institute, Luke brings culinary cred, creative flair, and genuine care to every plate he creates.
“Felons Seafood is about showcasing honest flavours and exceptional produce in a thoughtful yet approachable way,” he says.
“Everything on the menu is based around local, sustainable seafood, and we’re proud to champion local fisheries and growers to keep the menu fresh and harness the best daily produce.”
While the food’s undoubtedly the main attraction here, there’s a strong thread of community that runs through everything Felons does. “A lot of ingredients are not in abundance,” Luke explains. “By tradition, Aboriginal people move around and only take as they need, so we’re talking to the communities and watching our footprint.”
He’s also passionate about native ingredients, used in smart and unexpected ways. “Some of my favourites are the fish and chips with a tartare that includes pickled warrigal greens and fresh shucked oysters with cucumber mignonette and a native kelp vinegar, grown and produced by Gabriel, an Indigenous producer in Coffs Harbour.”
Hooked Already?
There’s something about seafood by the water that just hits different. As the sea breeze rolls in and the ferries go by, the vibe here is very ‘let’s order the whole menu and figure the rest out later’. You’re not here to rush. You’re here to lean back, watch the sun play tricks on the water, and toast to the fact that yes, living on The Beaches is the dream.
Whether it’s a midweek bite with the kids, a long ladies lunch, or something more low-key, Felons Seafood caters to every kind of outing. Go all-in on a seafood spread, keep it casual with fresh oysters and a cold beer, or enjoy classic fish and chips or beautifully grilled coral trout with a refreshing drink. There’s something here for everyone.
Speaking of drinks, this isn’t your average lineup. Here, you’ll find Felons’ award-winning brews (in case you didn’t know, they’ve picked up over 20 medals), coastal-inspired cocktails, and a crisp, considered wine list built for warm afternoons and good chats.
“Felons Seafood is a space that brings people together,” says Dean Romeo, Felons’ Brand Director. “It’s a place where locals can drop in, relax and enjoy a connection to the ocean, whether that’s through the food, the view or the atmosphere.”
Prices are approachable, the views are epic, the menu’s family-friendly and with a Head Chef who truly cares about where your food comes from, don’t be surprised if Felons Seafood becomes part of your weekly circuit.
In short? It’s casual and confident. You’ll come for the seafood, stay for the views, and probably leave planning your next visit before you’ve even paid the bill.
Manly’s got a new favourite catch. •
OPENING JUNE 2025
West Esplanade, Manly Wharf, Manly 2095
felonsseafood | www.felonsseafood.com.au
