Sydney food: Northern beaches get burst of restaurant openings for Christmas

A rash of last-minute Christmas food gifts are under the tree on Sydney's northern beaches, with a final burst of late 2015 openings. Former Icebergs chef Ben Horne will run the kitchen at Ruby Lane (200 Pittwater Road, Manly), which opens this Sunday. An organic grocer and 110-seat eatery rolled into one, Ruby Lane is the brainchild of former Keystone manager Phil Dawson and will serve chia and buckwheat pancakes with wellbeing workshops on the side.

Meanwhile, over in Dee Why, former Pei Modern chef David Lawrence is gearing up for Friday's launch of Buttercup (154-158 Pacific Parade, Dee Why). His menu will be complemented by a strong beverage list. "More due to deliciousness than design the drinks will be super local," co-owner Paul Fraser says. "Tap beers will come from 4 Pines, Nomad and the new Brookvale Brewery along with coffee by Barrel One."