Table Manners, a European-influenced neighbourhood restaurant and bar, is set to open its doors in late winter in Bronte. Taking over the Macpherson Street site previously occupied by Wet Paint, the venue is owned and operated by the esteemed hospitality figure, Alex Cameron. Designed by the acclaimed interior designer and Cameron’s close friend, Blainey North, Table Manners will feature two distinct spaces: a cosy six-seat bar with a relaxed lounge area, and an expansive 75-seat dining room.
Cameron, a local of Bronte, aims to fill a gap in the area by offering a relaxed venue that prioritises exceptional service, excellent wine, and an approachable menu. With an impressive background as the former group general manager of hatted-Sydney venues such as Franca, Parlar, and Armorica, and recent consultancy work on Sydney openings including Bobby’s Cronulla and Bartiga, Cameron brings a wealth of experience to this new venture.
Reflecting on his new restaurant, Cameron stated, “The opportunity to take the reins of the Wet Paint site after 23 years is something I am really excited about. I hope this site will continue to be the neighbourhood venue for locals. An extension of their own home, one in which they visit time and time again.” He added, “Table Manners is my first solo venture, putting down roots in my own backyard feels right as I bring my love of European dining to Bronte. For me, it’s a place to share what we love best, and for everyone to make memories over good food and wine.”
The menu at Table Manners will draw inspiration from the culinary traditions of Italy, France, and the United Kingdom, reimagining classic European dishes. The opening menu may feature delectable items such as crab pain perdu, a refined club sandwich, and crisp spaghetti with king prawns. The candlelit dining room, adorned with tables draped in white tablecloths, will create an inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxed, lengthy dining experiences.
The beverage program, curated by Cameron himself, will highlight both classic and contemporary producers, focusing on vintages that offer great value and quality. Guests can expect a tight cocktail list that honours the classics while incorporating seasonal twists. North’s renowned luxurious style will be subtly adapted to match the neighbourhood feel, manifested into a space that offers warmth and comfort. The venue will house two inviting areas, plus a 10-person private dining room, with soft textures and hues of green and caramel permeating throughout. Featuring a mix of booth and banquette seating and tastefully designed wall art inspired by French designer and visual artist Jean Cocteau, the aesthetic pays homage to the original site by retaining the textural green tiles on the façade. Plans also include the addition of outdoor seating come spring.
Set to open in late winter, Table Manners will offer lunch from Friday to Sunday, and drinks and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday, promising to become a beloved staple in the Bronte dining scene.
Table Manners
56 – 60 Macpherson Street, Bronte
@tablemannersbronte