Hugos is still one of the coolest places in Manly to eat, drink and watch the world go by. Share plates start at $21 and include Italian Meatballs, Fried Calamari and grilled Yamba Prawns. Mains have an Italian flavour and you won't be disappointed with the Spaghettini pasta with Queensland Spanner Crab. Or stick to what Hugo's has always been known for: pizza – half price on Monday through to Wednesday.
Manly fish Market may be tucked away at the south end of the Steyne but it's always busy. Queues stretch for miles so be patient because it's worth the wait. Ask the staff to advise on the best deal for your group and how hungry you are and you'll have just the right amount of crisp, freshly battered hake and chips that you can take to the beach. Just watch out for hungry seagulls!
Fancy a steak? Head to Manly Grill Seafood and Steakhouse on the beachfront. Natural aged steaks and flame grilled burgers as well as the iconic seafood platter make this a great joint for a birthday or special occasion. There's plenty of veg and the sweet potato chips are legendary.
If you're driving to the northern beaches and want good Japanese, Waka on Pittwater Road has a great selection of dishes – available for dine in or take away. Be adventurous and try the Grilled Scallop with Miso Butter, Eel Fried Rice or Wagyu Beef Udon paired with Plum Sake or a Japanese Craft Beer.
It's happy hour at Hemingways! Monday to Friday from 5pm to 7pm get down to Manly's hippest cafe-restaurant for $5 beer and cider tinnies and $7 Prosecco and line your belly with Cauliflower Nuggets, Parmesan Truffle Fries, Lamb Stew, Mussels Provençale, Ratatouille or Tuna Salad Niçoise. Love it so much you don't want to leave? Don't fret, they're open 7am til late so you can come back for breakfast.