Sydney artist Bec Fernon has hand-painted murals of martinis, octopuses, and sea creatures on the walls of Table Manners. Photograph courtesy of Table Manners. Macpherson Street in Bronte has suffered some notable losses in the last few years. Locals said farewell to Three Blue Ducks’ original restaurant, followed by popular acai spot Bowl’d Out. And then it was Orchard Street’s hole-in-the-wall Elixir Bar, in a devastating closure for the business as a whole.
But recently, there has been an exciting buzz about the coastal suburb—just in time for the warmer months. The famed Iggy’s has undergone a refresh, now serving its buttery croissants on weekdays, Café 143 has opened in part of the old Three Blue Ducks space, and ThreadX, a preloved fashion boutique, has set up shop across the street. Joining this promising revival is Table Manners, a European-inspired restaurant and bar that seems to perfectly fill a gap in the Bronte’s hospitality scene.
Located in the former Wet Paint site, which retains its green tiled facade, Table Manners marks the first solo venture of Sydney hospitality veteran Alex Cameron. Known for his roles as general manager at Franca and Parlar in Potts Point and Armorica in Surry Hills, Cameron has partnered with head chef Luke Churchill, formerly of Parlar and Oncore by Clare Smyth, to bring his vision to life.
“To work alongside Luke has always been on the agenda, we previously worked together [at Parlar] and his talent caught my eye back then,” he says.
The atmosphere at Table Manners is effortlessly relaxed, and the opening menu is seafood-centric—making it an ideal summery spot for a post-beach meal. Go for tuna belly toast, Hervey Bay scallops with nduja butter and macadamia, and a standout Moreton Bay bug club sandwich.
Cameron has curated a diverse 400-bottle wine list featuring both classic and emerging producers, with 30 wines available by the glass. There’s also a BYO option for all lunch services. For those in need of something stronger, opt for the signature dry Negroni with grapefruit sherbet or try the Sgroppino, spiked with vodka, champagne, and mandarin and lemon sorbet.
The venue’s interiors enhance the coastal charm. Renowned designer Blainey North, known for her work in marble architecture and design across Australia, New York, and London, has created a space reminiscent of a chic New York bistro blended with a Mediterranean gallery. The design features hand-painted murals of martinis, octopuses, and sea creatures by Sydney artist Bec Fernon. And decorative pieces by Australian designers Sarah Ellison and Rachel Donath are dotted around the space.
Slink into the elegant banquet seating, the tables dressed in white linen, or stop by for a quick drink in the relaxed lounge area, where you can soak in the sea breeze through retractable windows. With outdoor seating on the horizon, Table Manners is set to become the Eastern suburbs go-to summer hotspot.
Table Manners is open for lunch Friday to Sunday from 12pm, and for drinks and dinner Wednesday to Sunday from 5pm. tablemanners.com.au.
