The Espy

There's something utterly Australian about enjoying a cold drink entirely outdoors, just metres from the water's edge. The Espy, the Boathouse Group's latest venture on West
Esplanade, embraces this simple pleasure with both arms. Nestled beside the heritage-listed Manly Pavilion, this entirely open-air establishment has quickly established itself as the Northern Beaches' premier spot for harbour side drinks and bites.

Unlike many waterfront venues that hedge their bets with indoor spaces, The Espy boldly commits to the alfresco experience. It's a brave choice in Sydney's occasionally temperamental climate, but one that pays dividends on those picture-perfect days when the harbour sparkles and the breeze carries just enough salt to remind you how lucky you are to be here.

The design challenge for an outdoor-only venue is significant. How do you create a space that feels established rather than temporary? How do you provide comfort without the traditional shelter of walls and ceilings? And particularly crucial for a harbour side location; How do you protect guests and furnishings from the elements without compromising those million-dollar views?

The Boathouse Group has tackled these challenges with their signature light touch. Quality umbrellas (yes, by Basil Bangs) create flexible shade while maintaining the connection to sky and water. Durable yet stylish, they stand up to coastal conditions and encourage you to really settle in and feel part of the harbour.

What we love about The Espy, is how it complements its heritage neighbour and offers a relaxed space where sandy feet are welcome and pretension is left at the door.

For anyone following Sydney's design scene, The Espy represents a growing confidence in outdoor-only hospitality spaces - a recognition that sometimes the best four walls are no walls at all, just the harbour, the horizon, and the open sky above.