Manly’s iconic Pavilion has come a long way since its birth in 1933. Initially a dressing room for bathers, the iconic heritage-listed building is now one of Northern Sydney’s most beloved eating (and drinking) haunts thanks to its water-borne position.

And the prime piece of real estate is about to cement itself even further into the lives of foodies thanks to the introducing of a new Italian chef to accompany the venue’s new look, debuted late last year.

Chef Andrea Corsi is joining the Sydney icon’s ranks. The Italian-born chef is introducing a Mediterranean vibe to the Pavilion’s Bistro, using skill gained under Raymond Blanc in the UK, as well as Giovanni Pilu. Chef Andrea worked at the latter’s Pilu eatery for a decade, before they launched Cavallino together. Andrea will also be bringing his wine expertise to the North Shore venue as he is a certified sommelier.

“For me, working in one of the most beautiful places in Sydney, if not the world, is just incredible. Coming to work each day is a pure pleasure,” Andrea says of his new venture. “Producing food and drinks that successfully complement the location is a great delight and I love giving a little twist of Italy in this most Australian of settings.”

The addition of Andrea accompanies a major revamp of the building, revealed last year. Sleek new interiors were introduced, as well as a ballroom to accommodate 220 guests seated. The new look comes courtesy of Squillane Architects, who gave an expansive new bar area as well as the bistro a new lick of paint, merging the building’s heritage with the modern.