My FR-S is my DD as well, I went manual and it was actually my first manual car. After a week of struggling with first gear I've never looked back.
For me, MT in this car is less about forsaking the practicality of AT and more about acknowledging that this is a driver's car. You'll feel more connected to your drive and operating this vehicle, especially in MT. It is a feeling unlike what you'll get in a 98 corolla (93 corolla wagon was my first car
). Go MT!