Jester Seeds, Newtown
I went to Jester Seeds with a friend of mine who hadn't ever been to Newtown before. I don't think you could get more "Newtown" than Jester Seeds. The front is unobtrusively sandwiched between some regular stores that have been around for a while, so you'd be forgiven for walking right past it on several occasions. Its understated exterior doesn't draw your eye very easily, which only adds to the charm.
I was back the following week with a different group of people (who also hadn't been here before: I take everyone I know to it now), and their reaction was completely in tune with mine the first time I went there. They loved it.
There are plenty of seats, both inside and in the backyard-like area, despite the 'small bar' status. Although perhaps my idea of 'plenty of seats' is slightly skewed by frequenting small bars on the regular. My friends (and the friends-of-friends present) appreciated being able to sit down on a comfortable seat with a back (rather than on a wooden stool etc), they liked the cocktails & the gin selection; and we spoke comfortably to each other without having to yell hoarsely over the music or general noise.
Jester Seeds is a favourite, for me. The bartenders are laid-back, the music is excellent, the cocktails are good.(My, they're good.) There's food as well, but I would rather line my stomach with their delicious cocktails. The website describes it as a "fun and cozy place to hang out", and I have to agree. It's basically your uni friend's cool apartment. The chairs are mismatched, the tables are varied, the walls are covered in an assortment of pictures and picture frames (separately). The toilets seem to deteriorate as the night wears on, but at the start of an evening, even they are as delightful as the rest of the bar.
p.s. The flaming cocktail pictured is "Pretty in Yellow", passionfruit & vodka & fire making it a drink I re-ordered multiple times.
Credit Cards/Eftpos: Yes!
Opening Hours: Tues-Sat 4pm-12am, Sun 4pm-10pm
Jester Seeds: 127 King St, Newtown | (02) 9557 7008 | website | twitter
Reviews around the web: Concrete Playground Bar Zine Sydney Morning Herald