De'Assis Cafe

When a café is owned and operated by a chef, you expect the food to be exceptional. And at De'Assis Café, a joint founded by Flavio Assis who previously worked for The Boathouse Group, your expectations will be met.

The menu features seasonal and local produce designed to be enjoyed with friends. If you've got a sweet tooth, try the ricotta hotcakes with mascarpone, banana and berries. Or, for something savoury yet equally as indulgent, the croque madame, with double smoked ham, gruyere cheese and dijon mustard on sourdough (topped with a fried egg and more cheese) is top-notch, too.

Coffee wise, De'Assis use beans from specialty coffee roasters Seven Miles, who are locally based in Manly Vale — perfect after an early morning swim.

Images: Mel Koutchavlis