Dalston Bars

Three Compasses is a charming pub on Dalston Lane that doesn't conform to what you'd typically expect from a popular bar in zone two. It isn't a super-chic hipster parade with a microbrewery and a room for stroking cats; it takes a much more simple approach - focusing on serving up some of the best burgers in London, pouring the finest ales, offering a plethora of board games, and boasts some of the friendliest bar folk around. 

If you're on the hunt for the best bars in East London, The Duchess of Dalston is a go-to. From the minds behind Callooh Callay, this cocktail bar has an ever-changing menu every two weeks, with expertly blended creations served in a cool basement setting.

Little sister to Dalston Superstore and Voodoo Ray's, come to this camp paradise for the ultimate kitsch night out. Drag queens lead the night as you take to the stage, belting amazing songs and aided by special effects, all while sipping cocktails.

Continually rated as one of the true gems on the east London scene, Ruby's pulls in crowds from all over the capital to their intimate basement bar confines. The Bar specialises in a seasonal menu of innovative cocktails, with the Lounge focusing more on a wider choice of beers, wines curated from Clapton experts Verden and Vietnamese street food from the Hanoi Kitchen. A hidden treasure perfect for all occasions.

Rub shoulders with other night owls at this neon-lit Dalston bar, where karaoke meets intimate after-party. With locally brewed beer, CBD-infused lager and delicious cocktails, Village 512 will satisfy all taste buds too.

The Shacklewell Arms in Dalston caters to all needs, with a cosy pub room and a pretty courtyard. There's also a buzzing back room that features a stage and a dancefloor with bands, solo acts and DJs raising the roof nearly every night of the week.

Is this is the quirkiest bar in Dalston? We'd bet on it. Taking inspiration from a mix of Drag Race, 70s psychedelia and Roald Dahl, this immersive cocktail experience has lucky golden ticket holders tasting Billy Bonkers' latest confectionery-themed tipples.

While it may be a slight walk from Dalston, if there's any pub in East London that's worth it, it's Hand Of Glory. Noted for their witchcraft and pagan inspired interiors, head on down for a premium pub meal alongside their Seven Deadly Gins. 

The Mix is one of Dalston's top clubs, offering you a delicious lineup of eclectic music events. Not just a haven for audiophiles, this East London bar serves up all manner of tasty tipples, plus even dishes out quality grub to satisfy any hungry tums.

Located on the eclectic Kingsland Road, The Rocksteady is a stellar spot on Dalston Junction. Expect a steady stream of live music; with a focus on rock (of course), as well as, well-cooked food and classic cocktails alongside signature sips.

When it comes to the nitty, fun and gritty of live music in London, The Victoria is up where with some of the best of them. Not only a prime indie music space, The Victoria is ever a bustling pub known for their affordable pints, classic interiors and top pub grub.

Located near Dalston Junction station, The School of Dancing is decked out with exposed brick, cinema seating and vintage frames. Along with its vintage feel, it offers a wide range of cocktails in its chic basement.