Pisco Disco Independence Day

Pisco Disco: London’s Peruvian Party Is A City Staple  

By 31 July, 2023

First set up in 2011, Pisco Disco is one of London’s longest-running South American parties. Set up by Igor Siveroni, aka producer Southern Exposure, at a time where Latin events – not to say Peruvian events – were few and far between, Pisco Disco has become a staple of London nightlife; with editions every two-three months in Hackney, attracting up to 150 partygoers. 

Tucked away in Hackney’s Paper Dress Vintage, the July event celebrated Peruvian Independence Day, with regional fare to mark the occasion including food, dance, bands, and, of course, pisco. The pop-up kitchen menu from chef Marco Padilla (head chef at Lima London) showcased the best of Peru’s world-class gastronomy: from the cheesy vegetarian dish papa a la huancaina, the potato-fish layered causa, to the iconic fish ceviche. Meat-lovers could opt for pulled pork tamales, or a lamb “seco” stew. Diners were treated to short performances by traditional folklore dancers, courtesy of Peruvian cultural ensemble ArtPerUK, before the music kicked off inside.

Traditional folkloric dancing, courtesy of Peruvian cultural ensemble ArtPerUK. Photo: M. Coffey

Pisco Disco’s regular band, the seven-piece Manzana Tropical, played to a setlist of cumbia and Peruvian chicha, combining their own original songs with covers of classics by singer Chacalon and limeño cumbia/rock band Los Pakines. The band were followed by Movimientos’ Cal Jader’s setlist of psychedelic cumbia classics, ensuring a night of dancing. 

Manzana Tropical at Pisco Disco. Photo: M. Coffey

The venue is starting to feel too small for such a popular community event, which not only is frequented by Peruvians, but all of London’s Latin community. Siveroni does not need to promote the party, with word of mouth ensuring sold-out events on every occasion. 

The plan is to expand and grow – so be sure to keep checking back for Pisco Disco’s next evolution. 

Staple drinks at a staple London party. Photo: M. Coffey


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