Queensland craft brewery Felons Brewing Co is expanding south and bringing its unique brews to the iconic Manly waterfront, taking over the Manly Wharf Bar.
The move, which will happen on 18 October, follows Artemus Group’s April acquisition of Manly Wharf, the powerhouse behind Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves. This signals a significant revitalisation of the Manly waterfront, with Felons at its heart.
Artemus Group co-founder and director Adam Flaskas expressed enthusiasm for this new chapter, highlighting the group’s commitment to creating a vibrant and community-oriented destination. The group envisions Manly Wharf as a hub where dining, entertainment, and top-tier hospitality converge.
The project holds special significance for fellow co-founder and director Paul Henry. Growing up in Sydney, he fondly remembers the Northern Beaches and sees Manly as a symbolic meeting point of the harbour and the ocean. He believes Felons, emphasising camaraderie and good times, perfectly fits this iconic location.
Flaskas and Henry established Felons Brewing Co. alongside CEO Luke Fraser, brand director Dean Romeo, and brewery director Tom Champion. With over 75 years of combined brewing experience, the team is dedicated to producing high-quality, accessible beers. Champion emphasised its brewing philosophy, which centres on using fresh, local ingredients to craft balanced and sessionable beers that enhance social experiences.
Felons Manly will offer diverse brews, including their flagship Crisp Lager, Galaxy Haze, and Australian Pale Ale. Beer enthusiasts can also look forward to barrel-aged, seasonal, and limited-edition offerings.
Renowned chef Corey Costelloe, formerly of Rockpool Bar and Grill, created a menu to accompany the impressive beer selection. Costelloe’s culinary approach focuses on simple cooking techniques that showcase premium produce. Highlights include a 600g dry-aged ribeye, baby octopus with lemon, chilli, and oregano, pizzas made with Felons Pale Ale-infused dough, and locally sourced whole butterflied whiting.
Beyond food and drinks, Felons Manly will pulse with a vibrant music program. Live jazz, soul, and funk bands grace the stage most nights while DJs spin disco, 80s boogie, and Afrocentric tunes. The brewery will also launch its Lifestyle Club, aiming to build community through events like beer and yoga sessions, charity initiatives, sustainability workshops, and collaborations with local Manly artists.
Felons Brand Director Dean Romeo believes Manly is an ideal location for the brewery. He anticipates the venue becoming an inclusive space where locals and visitors alike can unwind, connect, and appreciate the simple pleasures of good beer in a beautiful setting.
This expansion marks a significant milestone for Felons Brewing Co., which will bring its unique hospitality and community spirit to the shores of Manly. With its focus on quality beer, delicious food, engaging entertainment, and community building, Felons Manly is expected to become a beloved destination for Sydneysiders and visitors alike.
Published Date 09-October-2024
