The Gopher: Irish-Inspired Basement Bar Opens in Manly
The Gopher is a new late-night venue that has just opened beneath Manly Corso.
An Irish-inspired basement bar, the venue brings a moody and immersive atmosphere, live music and its own brand of hospitality to the heart of Manly.
Located below street level, The Gopher is designed to feel worlds away from its coastal surroundings. Guests descend into a low-lit space that pulls them back in time – early 1900s Irish in its bones, with worn textures, aged finishes and carefully sourced details like reclaimed century-old lighting and internationally-sourced vintage fixtures.
Rather than replicating a traditional Irish pub, The Gopher offers a more layered interpretation — rustic yet refined, familiar yet distinctly its own. “It’s about atmosphere, detail and creating experiences people come back for,” says designer and co-owner Matt Clifton.
The venue takes its name from the Gopher Gang, an Irish-American street crew from Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen, known for their rebellious nature and strong sense of character. That narrative runs throughout the venue, informing design details, menu references and in-venue storytelling elements, including an honours board and a 100 Pint Club.
The food offering has been inspired by Irish pub classics, reworked into a share-style format. Dishes such as Pulled Beef Yorkshire Pudding Pies, Black Pudding Scotch Eggs, and Slow-Cooked Roast Lamb Shoulder are presented in smaller portions, encouraging guests to settle in and stay longer.
Other favourites include the classic Ploughman’s Platter, 250g Cape Grim Sirloin sliced with bone marrow jus, South St. Market Fish and the must-try Irish Spice Bag – an Irish street-style classic of crispy fried chicken tossed with beer battered fries, peppers and onions in bold spice seasoning with curry sauce. A truly mouth-watering mix!
The beverage program balances traditional Irish pours with a creative cocktail offering. Signatures include the Hells Bells — a butter-washed martini — and The Sinner, a pineapple and habanero margarita, alongside Guinness, Kilkenny and a rotating UK beer of the month.
Live music is central to the experience, with bands playing most evenings from early until late. The entertainment is designed to complement the food, drinks and atmosphere — woven into the fabric of the venue for a night well spent.
The Gopher has quickly established itself as a premier late-night basement bar that locals and visitors alike can enjoy. Whether you’re in the mood for some live entertainment, a drink with friends or a delicious Irish-inspired feed, The Gopher is the place to be!
The Gopher
40 The Corso, Manly NSW
Open Tuesday to Sunday (4pm – late)