The Cumberland, Manly’s secret basement speakeasy, is officially for sale after six years of drawing locals and tourists into its hidden whisky bar beneath Central Avenue.
A Hidden Local Favourite
Opened in 2019, the concealed venue sits behind a vintage deli fridge inside Cove Deli in the heart of Manly, accessible only via a spiral staircase leading to its underground lounge.
The Cumberland is known locally for its entry, a disguised fridge door that conceals a staircase into a fully fitted underground bar styled after 1920s Prohibition-era drinking spots.
With seating for about 75 people, the bar offers more than 250 varieties of whisky, along with natural wines, craft beers and classic cocktails. Its charcuterie boards are lifted from the street-level Cove Deli through a restored dumbwaiter, adding to its old-world approach.
Nationally Recognised Venue
Its owners confirmed they are exiting hospitality and seeking offers above $2.2 million, after the passing of Norfolk Property Group co-founder and Manly architect Bob Blackmore in August.
The venue earned national attention after being named Small Bar of the Year at the 2021 Australian Bartender Bar Awards. It has also received international and Sydney design honours for its marble, leather and antique brass interiors. Its fit-out is estimated at over $1.2 million, according to its commercial listing.
Owners Step Back After Leadership Loss
The bar is owned by the Norfolk Property Group, who installed a management team to run operations. With Mr Blackmore’s passing earlier this year, the group has opted to retire from hospitality and refocus on family.
Representatives said they originally created The Cumberland to offer Manly something unique that reflected the area’s character beyond beachfront venues.
Investment Opportunity Amid High Demand
Belle Property Commercial is marketing the venue as a fully operational hospitality asset with strong buyer interest already expressed. The listing notes a potential rental return of $150,000 to $175,000 per year, with one leasing offer currently on hold.
The bar sits within a mixed-use complex off Central Avenue, less than five minutes from the Manly Wharf ferry to the Sydney CBD, a location that consistently benefits from both local and visitor foot traffic.
Published 22-October-2025
