the Boathouse, Shelly Beach, Manly This beachfront café-restaurant is famous for bringing heat to winter dining. Step “off the sand and into The Boathouse” and you’ll find a large open hearth at the center of the room. Weave into a leather armchair by the fire after a chilly morning snorkel and you’ll be warmed from head to toe while sipping a hot chocolate or mulled wine. (Insider tip: the wood-fired winter menu is rich – think slow-cooked stews and grilled snapper – perfectly paired with their warm coffees or a cocktail by the flames.) Outdoor tables are fitted with gas heaters and thick throws so you can still nibble fish tacos with a view of the waves. ALFRESCO, REIMAGINED The best Northern Beaches spots for outdoor dining when the temperature drops Banco, Manly One of Manly’s hottest small bars, Banco sits on a laneway corner with a neon-lit façade. It doesn’t have a sea view, but it does have patio heaters and plump cowhide stools that make winter nights feel intimate. It’s eclectic cocktail menu has been referred to by many as “among the best in Manly”. On cooler nights the fit-out’s dark timber and exposed brick absorb the heater’s glow, and bartenders will happily recommend a spiced rum or mulled cider if you’re shivering. The small-plates menu (tapas and share plates) is rich and rustic – think braised lamb meatballs and woodfired pizzas – perfect coldweather comfort food. As the golden sun dips earlier and the sea breeze turns crisp, Sydney’s Lower Northern Beaches has its own secret: alfresco dining doesn’t hibernate in autumn and winter. In fact, many cafés and restaurants lean into the chill, transforming their patios with heaters, cozy blankets, fire pits and warming drinks so locals can still dine by the water. Whether you’re strolling Manly’s Corso on a cool evening or catching sunset at Collaroy Beach, you’ll find deck heaters glowing and staff ready with extra scarves and hot toddies. Heaters, firepits, and blankets make alfresco dining a warm and cosy experience, even when the mercury begins to fall. The Harbord Hotel, Freshwater A modern classic on Freshwater’s esplanade, the Harbord Hotel underwent a full refurbishment in 2020. Now its huge sun-drenched courtyard is covered with overhead louvre roofs and heaters, so the beachside beer garden works year-round. Nicknamed the “Hilton” by locals, this Freshwater favourite still retains a heritage charm with bare brick and polished wood. Staff hand out thick quilts when needed, and the open layout means beach breezes come through even on rainy days (just as quickly as the heater blasts go on). The Harbord’s courtyard is the ideal spot after a surf or walk, and while in winter you may swap your slip-ons for boots, the menu (hearty fish pies, grilled prawns, jalapeño-cucumber margaritas) and live music on the weekends keep the vibe as warm as ever. 44
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