Japanese Rock ‘N’ Roll Eatery to Open on Manly Beachfront

If Mr. Miyagi, Layne Beachley and Flume were to catch up for a chow-down, they'd be sure to do it at Daniel San. A brand new restaurant set to open on the Manly beachfront, Daniel San is where Japanese cuisine gets the rock 'n' roll treatment. In one night, you can sip sake in a 'Neon District', knock back a 'slushy beer', rock out on air guitar, play a round or two of pinball and get down to Steve Aoki tunes, while grazing on an array of Japanese delights.

The concept is the brainchild of hospitality guru Fraser Short and business partner Arthur Laundy. The duo also own the Watsons Bay Hotel, so they know a thing or two about matching killer views with adventurous social and culinary experiences. "We wanted to capture the fun and slightly quirky elements of Japanese culture infused with a rock 'n' roll vibe, whilst creating an offering that really capitalises on this amazing space's beachside location," says Short.

Daniel San's first and only rule is: there are no rules. In other words, whether you want to pop in for a quick, post-swim snack or hang out all afternoon, drinking and dining till you're full up, no one's going to stop you. "I think this is exactly what Manly needs right now," Short continues. "Daniel San fits perfectly with the Northern Beaches' lifestyle — relaxed, healthy and fun. A casual, fun chow-down style eatery where people can hang out, straight from the beach."

The man in charge of the menu is Benjamin Orpwood, who, in his previous incarnation, oversaw many a Japanese feast at Surry Hills' Toko. At Daniel San, the main act is the Robata grill. Styled a la beach shack, it delivers Japanese goodness in succulent and roasted form. Think wagyu beef, king salmon teriyaki, Shiso rolled pork belly, chicken skin with ponzu and quail eggs and prawn with yuzu koshu. Snack-wise, there are crunchy tuna and salmon tar-tacos, steamed buns with soft shell crab and kimchi mayo, 'rock 'n' roll' sushi with tuna belly, truffle and yuzu, and of course, sashimi.

"I wanted to create a really casual menu that anyone can easily navigate," Orpwood explains. "There’s a focus on fresh, clean food that’s unique and fun... The first head chef I ever had at a Japanese restaurant told me that the best way to get people to fall in love with Japanese food is to be authentic but not traditional and I think that’s what I've done."

Daniel San can be found underneath the Novotel Sydney Manly Pacific. The eatery's 350-strong capacity means that seating options are plentiful, whether you want to go exclusive private dining room or indoor/outdoor rooftop Dojo. Doors open on October 4.