36 Stoke Newington Road,
Dalston,
London,
N16 7XJ
(020) 7354 9993
The ViewLondon Review
If you love great DJs but hate all the hassle that comes with going to a big club, The Nest in Dalston could well be your perfect
night out.
The Venue
Back in 2010, the people behind Paradise by Way of Kensal Green and The Old Queen’s Head launched The Nest. At the time, the bar was
far better looking than most of its shabbier neighbours and some Dalstonites – missing the ramshackle Barden’s Boudoir that formerly
stood in the space – took a little convincing. A year and a half later and The Nest is firmly established as one of the best small DJ
bars in town. Boasting one of the meatiest soundsystems (Martin Audio) outside of superclub Fabric, combined with fabulous decor that
will remind of you of Glastonbury’s festival Shangri-La – neon lights, gas masks behind the bar and great booths to sit in – The Nest
is a great spot to see big names and quality DJs in intimate surroundings.
The Atmosphere
The venue uses its industry connections to pulls in big names – and this attracts clubgoers from further afield than Dalston, too.
Yes, you have your achingly cool Beyond Retro-clad twentysomethings, but there’s a bigger mix of people than many of the surrounding
venues. The staff are fashionable, yet a lot more smiley and professional than some of the other venues in the area, and the bouncers
are friendly, too.
The Music
Like all DJ bars, it varies on the night you visit. Some of the acts who’ve played include The 2 Bears, Adam Freeland, Toddla T,
Jackmaster and Plump DJs. If you’re after progressive electronic music, head to the bar’s weekly Saturday night Lemonade, where you’ll
hear nu-disco, house and electro beats, and between 9-11pm, up-and-coming live electronic acts are welcome to showcase their skills.
The Drink
As with many bars in the area, there’s not loads of drinks on offer – although, they do have wine for around £15 a bottle and more
expensive champers if you’re looking to splash out – but the crowd are often more about the music and less about the drinks, so a
simple beer or cider – the venue’s selection includes Heineken, Sol and Bulmers – starts from around £3.50 (pretty average for the
area). If you’re after a good deal, bag yourself a shot rack– six Jagermeister, tequila or sambuca – for just £10. House spirits
(doubles) and mixers are £6.50.
The Last Word
With its heavy soundsystem, air-conditioned dance floor and cheap entry, The Nest is one of the capital's best venues to see quality DJs in intimate surroundings.
The Nest has been reviewed by 14 users