Shaking things up

With a dash of pizzazz, a shot of style plus a hefty measure of cool factor, the Aura cocktail terrace and lounge bar shakes things up with legendary beverage director Chris Edwardes at the helm and each night of the week featuring a different musical offering behind the Pioneer-fitted DJ booth.

Nightmares on Wax take over Tuesdays, with their unique sound system-style soiree (watch out for big name special guests in 2011), the highly acclaimed Wax Da Jam sessions. Friday nights have always been the locals’ favourite, with Aura’s long-term resident DJ Antz dropping eclectic, contemporary and timeless beats and bombs all night long.

But there’s plenty more to discover on the Aura party circuit: Mondays herald the arrival of Aura’s first ever gay night: Room Service, hosted by Mistress of Ceremonies Jodie Harsh. Wednesdays take on a pop twist with Guilty Pleasures and Saturdays are the home of local DJ Ernesto Altes’ popular Just House – which does what it says on the tin!

Thursday’s rotating roster includes Superfreq Chic by underground hero Mr C; Paradise 45 with Guy Williams and Thomas Gandey; the nu-disco collective Boompt! plus the innovative, artistic Warehouse Village parties.

Back at the bar, the cleverly crafted cocktail menu makes choosing your tipple easy, divided into sections on the basis of spirits, to identify your favourite. Then work your way through the classic, short, fruity, sweet, sour, crushed and frozen options. Thirsty yet?

Updated on July 8, 2011.