1000 Pound Bend

There's a certain elegantly slumming aesthetic that Melbourne excels at. While other cities insist on drowning their bars in pink neon lights, generic Ikea furniture and funky house, Melbourne has always gone with a grungier, down-market look. The latest bar endeavour from the legendary (Saint) Jerome, 1000 Pound Bend encapsulates all that to a tee.

Housed in an old warehouse, 1000 Pound Bend features an antique shop's worth of retro couches, coffee tables, kitsch artwork and rugs. There's plenty of room to sprawl out with your laptop/drinks and the space has a light and airy atmosphere. A giant student sharehouse (minus the students) might be one way to look at it. Either way, there's a relaxed, down-market feel to the place. There's also a distinct lack of pretension; the current crowd is cross-section of suits and people who look like they should be in band. Meanwhile, the selection follows the St Jerome's convention - cheap beverages and food.

With the back half of the venue to act as an art/exhibition space and the venue barely into its first month, 1000 Pound Bend looks set for big things. The place has got the decor, the crowd and the credentials to make it a local favourite. Best to get yourself a regular seat at the bar before it becomes TOO popular.