A nostalgic tribute to the classic Italian dining scene of New York city, Pocket Pizza pairs gingham table cloths and the warmth of a neighbourhood trattoria with the buzz of Manly's young crowd. Order a classic pizza à la vodka (with extra vodka dipping sauce), then pass around a bowl of the conchiglie pasta with pesto and stracciatella that is as moreish as it sounds. Get a second round of their well-proportioned Aperol Spritz and you will see why this spot has become a local institution. 

Nothing quite beats a bowl of freshly made pasta, and Busta knows this well. With it's intimate atmosphere and open kitchen, the vibe is laid-back and familial, and the food focuses on sharing in equal measure. Small plates of fresh bruschetta and anchovies on oily bread, saucy pastas and a curated wine list to pair, it is high-quality and crafted with care - just like your nonna used to make it. 

Banco, squirrelled away down a back alley off Manly's Corso has just 32 seats and an open kitchen which feels more like a chef's table than a restaurant. Chef Dan Webb plates seasonal, ingredient-led food – think aged short ribs and lamb rojapi skewers cooked over charcoal to impart just the right amount of smokiness. The drinks selection is equally thoughtful, with low-intervention wines and food-focused cocktails. It's the perfect place for a date night or a long-needed catch up with friends. 

Named after the traditional Swedish fika - taking a break over coffee with friends and family - Fika in Manly is Australia's first Swedish eatery. Tucked into a narrow lane just off the beach, this bustling cafe offers a taste of Sweden with everything made in-house, from their signature homemade skagen toast with prawns, cured gravalax to the cakes, cookies and jams. And of course, great coffee.