Very Now in 2011 (and 2012)
An indie/arty-minded, zero-decor basement club on the border of Hackney/Dalston and Stoke Newington, its mystique enhanced by semi-regular hot and sweaty dance nights such as Dirtbox (moustaches, moist cracks, 80s electro/synthpop, italo disco, house and newer pop, every six or eight weeks). This is an intimate space with a small but buzzy dance area; it feels a bit like someone's living room, but with a DJ. Vogue Fabrics owner and fashion/costume designer Lyall Hakaraia lives close by with an eye on the festivities: "We're a roleplay pitstop; a Haberdashery Hacienda by day, by night a cultural Helter Skelter, showcasing the creative hub of East London with the very best in music, performance and mayhem." The club is drag- and transgender-friendly, and compatible with its more high-octane neighbour Dalston Superstore, just a few minutes' walk away, among the area's many Turkish food outlets. The monthly gay/straight night called POP! plays just what it says on the label. Vogue Fabrics is kinda difficult to spot; look for the words TICARI DANISMANKLIK BUROSU out front. Overground stations: Dalston Kingsland [formerly called North London Line] and Dalston Junction [modern extenstion of what used to be called East London Line].

Tags: Mostly Men , Mostly Women , Mixed Gay/Lesbian , 20-somethings , 30-somethings , 40-something , Dancing , Smoking Area , Gay-owned