Standing on the Man-O-War steps beside the Opera House, we eagerly awaited the Veuve Clicquot cruise ship that would take us around the Harbour to Hugos Manly. Half expecting a ferry with a few Veuve Clicquot banners, we were impressed with the stunning white yacht that pulled up beside us.
Through the windows, we could see the distinctive orange branding on the champagne bottles and buckets. Excitement started to bubble, like the liquid we were about to consume, as we made our way up the swaying stairs into the yacht.
Before I had the chance to greet the host, I was offered an orange flute of Veuve Clicquot champagne. Sweet and fizzy, the champagne was icy cold and a welcome drink on a hot summers day.
We were greeted by the brand ambassador for Veuve Clicquot and took a seat on the deck. There was orange and black Veuve branding everywhere and the waiters wore white shirts with Hugos etched into the breast pocket.
As we sailed the harbour sucking back Pacific Bay oysters in a tangy vinaigrette, as well as fresh fig canapés to complement the bubbles before arriving at Manly Wharf.
Dave Evans, one of the owners of Hugos Group greeted us with a huge smile. He led us to Hugos Restaurant and the outdoor deck at Manly Wharf, where we were seated and offered more champagne. The menu was designed to showcase a number of the exquisite dishes on offer at Hugos Manly, including award-winning pizza, king prawns and trout.
As we watched the sunset we sipped champagne and enjoyed fresh seafood, slow roasted pork belly with sweet and sour onions, radicchio and buffalo milk mozzarella.
Veuve Clicquot Rosé complimented the pan fried ocean trout with pea puree, radish, shaved asparagus, eschallots and salmon roe.
Tiramisu was on the menu for dessert but we ran out of time and needed to board the boat back to the Opera House (tragedy)! Dave has promised us an IOU, another reason to return.
Hugos Manly is open Monday to Friday 12pm till late and Saturday & Sunday 11:30am till late
Hugos Manly
1 Manly Wharf, East Esplanade, Manly NSW 2095
(02) 8116 8555