Shore Club

The Shore Club is damned popular, and on some nights – such as the one in January last year when it had to be closed due to overcrowding – it's too popular. Hell, these locals (and many non-locals) know a good thing, and it's easy to see what draws so many folks to the Shorey. You can't get a drink closer to the water unless you sit on the beach itself with a hip flask. The club has three levels (the bottom DeeBar, middle Belvedere Room and rooftop Moet & Chandon Lounge). And if you're turned off by crowds, you can still visit the DeeBar at 6pm and sip a zingy Very Bower (Belvedere Pure, rhubarb liqueur, passionfruit, pineapple and lime), watch the sun retreat, and sit unmolested. The Long Island Iced Tea, heavy on the lemon and the tequila, is maybe the most refreshing in Manly. Domestic beers are $6-8 a pop. The cocktail list favours summery drinks, with vodka-and-rum-based 'tails dominating. The food menu is reasonable (mains $18-25), simple, and Italian-themed. Be warned though: on Saturday nights, this place goes off like a rocket. Bring a strong set of lungs to yell your order at the bar.