Via

Open since the mid-90s, Via is the Village’s lavish cabaret den – all dark wood, gothic arches and nooks that make a simple drink feel like a night out. It’s a true all-sorts space: a bar for after-work negronis, a restaurant for hearty plates, and a late-night stage where drag, live vocalists and cabaret turn the room into a singalong. Regular shows feature local favourites and touring queens, with weekend line-ups that pull in a loyal crowd who know the words to everything from power ballads to pure camp classics. The staff keep things warm and unpretentious, and the door team are used to welcoming everyone – couples on first dates, trans and non-binary pals, birthday crews and visitors who’ve heard about Canal Street and want the full experience. Plenty of seating makes it a good shout for mixed-age groups and anyone who wants the performance without the crush. Expect seasonal menus, cheeky sharing cocktails and Sunday sessions that roll from roast to piano bar. Accessibility is front of mind and there’s table service in key spaces. If you’re new to the Village, this is a gentle, glittery introduction – you’ll leave humming the last number and planning your return for the next cabaret night.