Sure, it’s not the prettiest part of town but Battersea has its perks - low council tax, Battersea Park Zoo, and a little piece of cocktail heaven called Dusk.

The Venue
This jewel of a bar adds a well-needed splash of style and excitement to this slightly sketchy part of Battersea. Upon entering Dusk, you are immediately transported to a chic nighttime hotspot, greeted by gorgeous hostesses. There's no cover charge, a free coat check, and a dark and sexy space filled with attractive clientele and drinks to match.

The bar is the main focal point here and rightfully so with its splendour of sweet liqueurs and potent spirits. Along with the skilled mixologists, the bar glows amongst the dark walls and leather booths. Soft round lighting and candles illuminate the rest of the venue with a warm radiance. Beyond the main bar area lays a VIP section, and for those who happen to befriend the charming and surprisingly down-to-earth owner, the Captain’s Table. The club also has party room adorned with candles and red and gold paisley wallpaper that is used when the place is packed and is available for those who want to reserve it for a more intimate evening with friends.

Just past the party room is a delightful patio that is pumping in warmer weather and makes for a quiet, comfortable retreat for a smoke and a chat during the colder months.

The Atmosphere
Dusk brings in a stylish mix of laid back, young professionals that lack the pretentious attitude that would be expected in such a funky little venue. Instead, everyone laughs, mingles, and dances. DJs spin sweet tunes from Thursday through to Saturday and Friday nights bring in a bongo player to add some extra rhythm. There is no dress code, and parties of five or more are recommended to put themselves on the guest list. There is also a Friends of Dusk membership, offered to regulars and friends free of both charge and attitude.

The Food
There are tasty food options here yet they seem to be overshadowed by the abundance of alcoholic delights. However, those who want some fine nosh with their superfine cocktails, the venue satisfies with a selection of breads, dips (vegetarian or seafood) and sharing platters (vegetarian, seafood, Oriental and Mediterranean).

The Drink
Where to begin? The wine and Champagne list is decent, but pales in comparison to the creative (and extensive) list of luscious cocktail concoctions. Warsaw Pact mixes Zubrowka vodka with fresh mint leaves, vanilla syrup, fresh cloudy apple juice and a float of Amaretto Disaronno into heaven-in-a-glass. Bourbon lovers can get their cocktail fix too with the Watermelon Smash (Woodford Reserve smashed up with fresh lemon, mint leaves, watermelon and vanilla sugar). Drinks arrive quickly, are delightfully well presented, and taste divine - all at very reasonable prices. It’s no wonder the place has faithful customers and awards galore.

The Last Word
Stylish, unpretentious, and armed with a cocktail list to die for, Dusk is well worth the trek to Battersea.

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