Perched right on the water, Hugo's attracts a smart crowd from Sydney and beyond. With panoramic harbour views, and a breezy, sun-dappled terrace, it's the kind of place where a long lunch effortlessly slips into evening sundowners. The menu strikes a balance between relaxed coastal dining and polished Italian flair – wood-fired pizzas topped with burrata arrive alongside tuna ceviche and butterflied king prawns. 

Hidden just off the Corso, Jipang is Manly’s low-key Japanese favourite where the focus is firmly on flavour over fuss. The menu is tight, authentic and cooked with the kind of care that makes regulars fiercely loyal. Start with a light prawn tempura or karage chicken with the house-made teriyaki sauce before diving into steaming bowls of ramen or a rice curry. The sake selection is extensive too. 

Greek-inspired Norma's Deli on Manly's waterfront boulevard, the Corso, is an Alladin's Cave of deliciousness. This 550 foot emporium is part grocer, part sourdough bakery, part diner, and part coffee bar; begin with toast slathered in house-made taramasalata and return after a day in the surf for pork souvlaki and a Greek lager. 

You can't miss Rollers Bakehouse with its bold pastel pink facade and open entrance in place of a door. Located just behind the main beachfront boardwalk, Rollers is the brain child of James Sideris, aka 'ButterBoy,' who is building a small empire of cult-status bakeries across Sydney with his signature twist on classic french patisserie. Expect huge, airy chocolate filled croissant, tiramisu tarts and all sorts of sweet, laminated perfection.