There’s a new bar on the Northern Beaches – and it’s already becoming a favourite! Freshie Locale is the latest venture from Freshwater Brewing Co., and has just opened for business.
From the team behind Freshwater Brewing Co. comes Freshie Locale, a new neighbourhood bar serving crisp beers, natural wines and aperitivo plates. Recently opened in the Heart of Freshwater Village, the design-led, community-minded spot is quickly becoming a go-to for post-swim spritzes and laid-back afternoon hangs.
Tucked into a light-filled slice of Lawrence Street, Freshie Locale reimagines the aperitivo tradition through a distinctly coastal lens. It’s warm, welcoming and built for lingering – whether you’re swinging by after the beach, stopping in with the kids, or catching up over a glass of something cold.
Meanwhile, behind the bar a rotating selection of Freshwater Brewing’s latest pours is joined by a curated lineup of pét-nats, zippy whites, classic cocktails and thoughtful non-alcoholic options. The food menu keeps things simple and snackable, too. Freshly shaved cold cuts, anchovies in olive oil, house-made pickles, and warm focaccia served with whipped butter and salt flakes are the perfect accompaniment to slow afternoon drinks.
“Over the past few years, we’ve loved building our place in the Northern Beaches community through events, collaborations, and beers that reflect the lifestyle here,” says Freshwater Brewing Co. Founder Jonny Bucknall.
“Opening a bar in Freshie feels like a full-circle moment. We’re not trying to reinvent the wheel, just create a relaxed, feel-good space that complements what’s already in the village, with locally brewed beers, afternoon aperitifs, and food that makes you want to stay a little longer.”
The team behind Freshie Locale (Jonny Bucknall, Andy McMurray, Tom Bruce and Brett Phillips) is the same crew responsible for Freshwater Brewing Co.. Since opening in 2022, this vibrant brewery has gained a loyal following for its laid-back feel, thoughtful design, and unpretentious approach to beer.
And now, at Freshie Locale, that spirit continues – just in a more intimate setting. The new bar seats up to 25 guests for now (with plans to expand to 50), offering the choice to pull up a stool at the bar or soak up the afternoon sun outside on lively Lawrence Street.
Drop in for a quick bite, a crisp lager or a fresh glass of rosé – whatever suits your mood. You’ll find warm house-baked baguettes with whipped butter, spicy Perello olives, and shaved mortadella with house-pickled onions. There’s also Pino’s ham with selected mustards, anchovies slicked in EVOO, and a nostalgic prawn cocktail with marie rose sauce and crudités.
The standout? A Freshie Lobster Roll – with fresh lobster meat on a toasted hot dog bun, finished with house sauce and lemon. Meanwhile, cheese lovers can opt for whipped ricotta with lemon and olive oil, or broken chunks of Parmigiano Reggiano.
The focus is on freshness, simplicity and snacks that fuel good conversation. It’s aperitivo done with beachside charm and a Northern Beaches soul. Whether it’s a salty beer after a swim, a pet-nat at golden hour, or a Friday afternoon spritz, Freshie Locale is your new excuse to linger a little longer in Freshwater.
Freshie Locale
Address: 16A Lawrence Street, Freshwater
Hours: Open 7 Days, 12pm – 10pm
Website: https://freshwaterbrewing.com.au/pages/freshie-locale – Bookings recommended, walk-ins welcome.
Instagram: @freshie_locale
