Manly

Imagine a corner of sunny Australia nestled in the lively Imaizumi district of Fukuoka. Manly is a stylish cafe-bar that transports its guests to the Sydney coast, offering a unique blend of a relaxed atmosphere and exotic cuisine. In a country like Japan, such themed establishments are prized for their authenticity and attention to detail.

Manly. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The interior is steeped in surf culture and Australian nostalgia: a wooden terrace, shelves stocked with legendary Tim Tam sweets and Vegemite, and screens often showing films about waves and Aboriginal culture. Manly is famous for its incredibly fluffy ricotta pancakes and bold gastronomic choices rarely found elsewhere in the city.

It’s the perfect spot for both a quiet brunch and an evening gathering. One of the bar's highlights is its pet-friendly policy: four-legged friends are welcome not only on the outdoor terrace but also inside, making the atmosphere feel even more like home.

If you're planning a visit to this cozy Australian corner, we recommend checking their social media or calling ahead to book a table, especially if you plan to bring your pet.

Visiting Manly is, first and foremost, a gastronomic adventure. Adventurous eaters should try the kangaroo carpaccio, fried ostrich, or deep-fried crocodile. Despite being exotic, these dishes are prepared in the best bar-snack traditions and pair perfectly with Australian beers like Foster’s or VB.

For those who prefer the classics, the menu offers juicy meat pies with melted cheese, traditional fish and chips, and famous desserts. Be sure to order the fluffy pancakes — available with matcha, ricotta, or seasonal Amaou strawberries. They are so popular that many people come here specifically for them, even late at night.

At Manly, you can do more than just eat. In the summer, the outdoor wooden terrace is the best spot for people-watching in the slow-paced Imaizumi neighborhood. Inside, you can catch sports matches on the projector or browse the shelves of Australian souvenirs. If you’re traveling with a dog, your pet is sure to get plenty of attention and affection here.

The cafe is located in a quiet backstreet of the Imaizumi district, which is famous for its stylish cafes and shops. The easiest way to get here is by public transport; Manly is a 10–15 minute walk from the city's major transport hubs.

If you're using the subway, take the Nanakuma Line and get off at Yakuin Station. You can also take the Nishitetsu Line trains to Tenjin Station, from where a pleasant stroll through the vibrant neighborhood will lead you straight to the bar. For navigation, it's best to use Google Maps, looking for the Tenjin Minami Royal Heights building name.

For those who prefer a taxi, a ride from central Hakata Station takes about 10 minutes. If you're traveling by rental car, keep in mind that the bar doesn't have its own parking, but there are about 60 paid parking zones within a few minutes' walk.

The story of this place began around 2009–2010, when its owner, Itsuro Fujita, returned from Australia. After spending a year and a half in Sydney on a working holiday visa, he was so inspired by the vibe of the coastal cafes on the Manly Corso pedestrian street that he decided to recreate that spirit of freedom and relaxation back home.

The establishment was named after the famous surf spot, Manly. Since its opening, the bar has become a magnet for those looking for something more exotic than standard Japanese fare. Over the years, the interior has filled with authentic Australian artifacts, from jars of Vegemite to koala figurines, creating the feeling of a real journey to another continent.

Throughout its existence, Manly has earned a reputation as one of the friendliest spots in the Tenjin area. It has been featured several times on local TV programs thanks to its unusual dishes and popular desserts, becoming a key part of Fukuoka's food map. Today, it’s not just a cafe, but an established community spot with high ratings among both locals and tourists.

To enjoy the atmosphere and try the famous pancakes or a light lunch, 1–2 hours should be plenty. It’s the perfect amount of time for a short break during a walk around the city.

If you’re planning a full dinner with an exotic tasting menu, Australian beer, and sports on the big screen, you should set aside about 2–3 hours. The evening atmosphere on the terrace is perfect for a leisurely relax with friends.

The establishment is open daily, but the schedule varies by day of the week. From Monday to Thursday, as well as on Sunday, the bar's doors are open from 11:00 to 21:00. This is a great time for a late breakfast or an early dinner.

On Friday and Saturday, Manly operates in two shifts: a daytime shift from 11:00 to 16:00 and an evening shift from 18:00 to 23:00. Please note that the break between 16:00 and 18:00 allows the staff to prepare for a busy evening. The kitchen usually stops taking orders an hour before closing.

The Imaizumi district is a wonderful place to start exploring the city, and a visit to Manly can easily be combined with exploring other interesting locations. Both children's entertainment centers and modern multimedia exhibitions are within walking distance or a short distance away.