Banging tunes and DJ sets, Astoria 2 offers a no nonsense night out for those favouring alternative nocturnal activities.

The Venue
Three bars, two sound systems and a main room perfect for live gigs and club nights. Pretty it isn't, but it fits the bill as one of London's premiere alternative venues. Holding up to 1,000 and with a raised centre dancefloor, it feels bigger than it actually is. The stage is well sized and almost flush with the crowd but such is the design of Astoria 2, whatever your vantage point, you're sure of a good show.

Up top, the horseshoe balcony extends around the edge of the dancefloor, split in the middle by the DJ booth. Bars on both sides offer quick access to drinks, with a fair bit of seating to boot. Room two is small, but still loud and live with windows exposing the action downstairs. Simple but effective appears to have been the brief, and there is no doubt they've managed to achieve this aim.

The Atmosphere
Dancing and jumping from the stage to the bar, leave the attitude at the door and get on the dancefloor. There's always plenty of passion, whatever the night, and the variety of events ensures a mix of punters. Bands can get up close and personal, something fairly rare in many venues, but when the moment comes the crowd always responds and the entire place can kick off.

Some of the club nights can feel a little vacant, after all this isn't a miniature venue, but things are on the up and the listings look increasingly promising. When full to the brim, the vibe is tough to beat, but it can struggle to disguise when it's under half full.

The Music
Big names and big nights can always be seen on the bill with Moby, Bloc Party and Primal Scream all having graced the stage. The club nights, however, are increasingly key covering pop, rock and indie, although popularity can depend on the promoter. One thing's for sure, whatever the genre you can guarantee it'll be good music all night.

The Drink
Drinks are cheap and there is nearly always an offer, but beer is basic and is only served in cans or plastic cups. The variety is standard with nothing outstanding, but you'll get more to the pound than most places in London.

The Last Word
Astoria 2 isn’t the most glamorous of places, but then it never claimed to be. Cheap drinks and good music makes for a quality live venue. You can't say fairer than that.

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