Given the hip reputation of Dalston, it’s surprising that besides Bardens Boudoir there have been only a few late night venues for locals to enjoy. That’s where Dalston Superstore comes in - a multi-purpose venue open from midday until late with a mixture of music, art, cocktails and even free WiFi.

The Venue
Dalston Superstore is an urban space with definite touches of Shoreditch chic - before Shoreditch went the commercial route, that is. Expect concrete walls, industrial pipes, intimate two-person tables with bar stools and diner-style leather booths.

The venue is split over two floors. Upstairs serves the daytime flow of people traffic and downstairs, opening from 10pm, is for more hedonistic punters. The walls are covered with photos and paintings, which are all for sale, and the place has plenty of eccentric touches. Think tree branch lights, fairy lights and graffiti-style murals. The upstairs has a long wooden bar with a small DJ area at one end. Downstairs, the intimate and dark basement is decorated with graphic illustrations and there are retro televisions on the bar and a corner DJ box.

The Atmosphere
Dalston Superstore plays host to several local gay nights, and has a big gay contingent in the crowd. This is a very fashion-conscious, arty place, and the people that come here are in keeping with that. There are lots of gay (and straight) young couples enjoying drinks and larger groups of people gearing up for a night out.

The bar staff are incredibly friendly, as are the door staff, although there are occasionally guest lists on the door to minimise potential trouble. The music policy and atmosphere are surprisingly unpretentious and it has a live, fun, upbeat vibe. However, quirky East End glamorous style is the norm here, so dress to impress. A word of warning: the upstairs bar is heaving by 10.30pm so it’s best to arrive earlier if you want a seat.

The Music
The upstairs bar plays a genre-crossing mix of popular music including pop, electro, old school hip hop and house; in short, anything that is worth dancing and singing along to. The downstairs club is more defined, with different nights hosting a mix of bigger name DJs and local stars. Events held here include Best Before - a night devoted to ‘90s house and techno such as Ultra Nate and Snap. There’s also Strutt the Fu*k Up - a glamorous party with runway fashion shows and a mix of house, booty bass and electro.

Disco, electro and house are the main draw with the running theme throughout all the nights seeming to be upfront contemporary dance music mixed with retro classic beats. Other DJs to have graced the decks include Horse Meat Disco and Disco Bloodbath.

The Drink
The bar at Dalston Superstore is fairly standard with mid range spirits and mixers priced at around £3.60. There are no draught beers at present, although this is something that is planned for the future. They have no cocktail menu as such but when asked the bar staff will mix up some classics. The Cosmos are well mixed and balanced and cost just £6.10 each, which is very reasonable. The fridges have plenty of bottled beers including Peroni and there are lots of flavoured Schnapps and spirits suitable for shots. There is no wine list, but it is on offer.

The Last Word
Dalston's growing reputation as the most hip of the East End’s areas will be further reinforced with venues like Dalston Superstore. It’s a great venue and, if it maintains the same friendly atmosphere, it should only increase in popularity.

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