The Shadow Lounge

Glitzy, glamour-loving and low-lit lounge club veering towards a Studio 54 sensibility, with intimate but roomy and party-friendly booths overlooking a sunken illuminated dance floor right out of 1979. A hefty mirror ball dangles above, like a kind of religious icon. Alcove booths are black and aloof, with one of the seven devoted to VIPs. This is a very together club — not too big, great sound sytem and nicely detailed — and occasionally attracts famous people (Elton John, Kylie Minogue etc). Features include guest star DJs and end-of-the-month theme nights. Wednesday nights draw a creative/flamboyant/fashion-minded crowd hosted by Jodie Harsh (Ultraviolet), Thursdays are DJ-driven house nights organised with club giants Orange Nation (Create), Fridays have a sophisticated house vibe (Shadow Play) and Saturdays go all Top 40 à la remixes and upbeat house sounds, hosted by Johanna Londonium (Wicked & Wonderful). Guest list is an option for the unitiated. Sportswear, trainers and ripped jeans do not make it beyond the threshold. Opened in July 2001 in a space previously occupied by gay/straight-porn Astral Cinemas. Refurbished in early 2012, then rebooted in 2014.