Felons crew brewing big plans for Manly

Brisbane craft brewer Felons Brewing Co. is expanding to Sydney.

Felons will be taking over Manly Wharf Bar from Friday, October 18.

Since taking ownership of Manly Wharf in April, Artemus Group, the group behind Brisbane’s acclaimed Howard Smith Wharves, has been re-creating the waterfront precinct as a vibrant hub for community and culture.

Felons Brewing Co. will serve as a central feature of the Wharf’s revitalised experience.

“We’re excited to unveil Felons’ new home at Manly Wharf,” said Adam Flaskas, co-founder and director of Artemus Group. “Our vision for Manly Wharf has always been to create a dynamic, community-focused destination, that fuses dining, and entertainment and raises the bar on hospitality.”

Paul Henry, co-founder and director of Artemus Group, added: “As a Sydney boy, I have had many fun times on the Northern Beaches. Manly is the gateway to our famous city, and truly special, where the ocean meets the harbour.

“Felons is a special beer, to be enjoyed with friends and fun times. I am excited and indeed honoured to be involved in the revitalisation of the iconic Manly Wharf and to bring our beloved Felons brewery to its new home in Sydney.”

Felons Brewing Co. was established by Adam Flaskas and Paul Henry alongside CEO Luke Fraser; brand director Dean Romeo; and brewery director Tom Champion.

Collectively, they have over 75 years of brewing experience.

“Our brewing philosophy at Felons Brewing Co. has always been guided by a core belief - to brew no-fuss beer with fresh, local ingredients while focusing on balanced and sessionable products that drive sociability and memorable experiences for our customers,” said Champion.

Felons Manly will showcase a selection of their award-winning beers, including Crisp Lager, Galaxy Haze, and Australian Pale Ale, as well as barrel-aged beer, and seasonal and limited-edition brews.

Beyond beers, the drinks list will include a mix of cocktails; Champagne; Australian and international wines; a selection of spirits; and (a must nowadays) non-alcoholic alternatives.

Chef Corey Costelloe, former culinary director of Rockpool Bar and Grill, has designed the Felons Manly menu.

The menu features beef supplied by CopperTree farms along with Clarence River baby octopus with lemon, chilli and oregano; 36-hour fermented pizza dough, kick-started with a splash of Felons Australian Pale Ale before being topped with fresh, local ingredients; and whole butterflied whiting from Coffs Harbour.

Felons will launch a new music program, featuring live jazz, soul, and funk bands most nights, along with Sydney’s top DJs spinning disco, 80s boogie and Afrocentric grooves.

See www.wharfbar.com.au