I like Sydney’s small bar scene, I really do. I like it because there’s a certain satisfaction in knowing that Melbourne’s not the only city with cool laneway secrets, because there’s a justified ego preening that goes with leading friends to a place that isn’t even located on Google maps and because it proves that big things really do come in small packages.

But I also like the idea of being able to find a seat if I show up past 5pm, which is why I’ve been debating whether or not to write about the small yet unpretentious watering hole that has sprung up in Newtown. Ray Vercansa’s first bar Jester Seeds is located in the middle of that culturally barren stretch of King Street between Corridor and the university, right about opposite that dilapidated homeware shop where everything’s been 90% off for the last six months. But it’s only difficult to find because you don’t expect it to be there. It’s minus any misleading signage, and under its welcoming French doors is some of the area’s best drinking real estate.

The fit-out is perfectly in keeping with Newtown’s anything goes vibe, with the glow emitted from the suspended light bulbs just soft enough to reveal the newspaper on the distressed walls and the squishiness of those armchairs so perfectly positioned for people watching. Regarding the drinks menu there’s an alluring list of cocktails, but if $16 is too steep for your liking then skip past Jack Pudding, Mr. Harley Quinn and Old Cuban for a refreshingly student-friendly list of affordable wines. The friendly bartenders will gladly mix you a classic if you’re that way inclined, and if you smile widely enough may even make up a big jug of vodka soda — though they don’t stay so on the menu. But when the tasty Korea-meets-Mexico bar snacks like tacos and seafood pancakes set you back a mere $5 – $10, it’s not hard to justify that Jack Pudding on the second round.  

The nearby Abercrombie might be drawing students through its doors faster than you can say “Rave Juice”, but the clientele here is slightly more mature (though like most things in Newtown you can’t lump it into just one category). A mix of students and professionals sit scattered throughout both the front bar and in the vibrant courtyard out the back. The courtyard, but the way, is the perfect spot to enjoy that $25 jug of cool sangria — all six cups of it.

It won’t be long before people cotton on to Jester Seeds, but luckily Vercansa has recently gained approval to expand upstairs with an art space. So, like with most places in Newtown, all walks of life will be welcome.