Buzzy area for laid-back professionals
Balham is a fantastic area, with more of a laid-back vibe rather than clubs, there are ample quirky bars and great restaurants to choose from.
M1LK
20 Bedford Hill London SW12 9RG
Located on a pedestrian friendly cobbled street in the heart of Balham, Milk boasts the best latte south of the river. Equally spectacular is the thoughtful menu options with organic ingredients sourced from local farms. Sunday brunch is offered all day, and it is impossible to order anything short of mouth-watering. Free WiFi is available, and great customer service is delivered by even better looking staff.
+ Don’t forget to get your frequent coffee buyer card stamped - the seventh cup is on M1LK!
The Regent
21 Chestnut Grove, London SW12 8JB
Though The Regent has served as Balham’s local for three short years, it has become a bit of an institution in its own right. Traditional pub fare is offered, and cosying up in one of the many oversized booths give The Regent its home-away-from-home feel. Pub goers can frequently catch football and rugby matches during the week, and party goers can dance to live or DJed music on the weekends.
+ Located a stone’s throw from Balham tube station, meeting here is convenient even if you don't live in the neighbourhood.
Dee Light Bakery
14 Ritherdon Road, London SW17 8QD
Dee Light Bakery is the realisation of a childhood dream for owner Dee Monteleone, who has been making cakes professionally for 16 years. Customers can expect quality and passion behind her recipes, which range from simple croissants and muffins to homemade pies, quiches, and freshly baked breads. Bespoke cakes are available for all occasions like weddings and birthdays, or if you’re in the mood to DIY, cake baking and decorating classes are offered.
+ Opens early every day in time for tea and (freshly baked!) toast.
The French Cafe
16-18 Ritherdon Rd, London SW17 8QD
The French Cafe is a short five minute walk from Balham tube, and it's just as much charming and tasty as it is good value for your money spent. Their specialty is weekend brunch, with Oeufs Francais and Oeufs Benedict being menu highlights. If dinner is what you’re after, the wine list is extensive, and they offer six different options for steak. Bon Appetite!
+ Generous portions and its down-to-earth vibe make The French Cafe a winner.
Fujisan
326 Balham High Road, London SW17 7AA
Fujisan offers sushi, sashimi and other Japanese dishes between Tooting and Balham until 11:00pm every night for less than you typically find in the city. Don't be fooled by the prices; the quality is excellent. Take-away is also available for a cosy night in with a great film; we recommend Jiro Dreams of Sushi.
+ Special lunch is available for £6!
Bodean's
169 Clapham High Street, London SW4 7SS
Meat eaters eat your heart out! Bodeans is an American smokehouse and BBQ restaurant specialising in Brisket, sticky ribs and a range of other meaty dishes. “Best Ribs This Side of the Atlantic,” says Time Out magazine and who are we to argue with them?
The Avalon
16 Balham Hill London SW12 9EB
The Avalon offers a bold British menu bursting with traditional dishes, including their renowned Sunday roast, complemented by carefully chosen wines, ales and cocktails
+ The capital's most beautiful beer garden (as voted by Time Out).
The 3 Monkeys
5 Fernlea Road London SW12 9RT
The 3 Monkeys features high quality cocktails, a party atmosphere and opens late six days a week.
+ It is located just 2 minutes walk from the tube.
The Exhibit
12 Balham Station Rd, London SW12 9SG
Located right next to Balham station, Exhibit offers something for any time of day. They do a bottomless brunch, excellent tapas in the evening and put on a host of different events. There really is something for everyone. Check out Jess' blog on the bottomless brunch there: https://www.capitalliving.co.uk/blog/2015/10/exhibits-bottomless-brunch.aspx
+ Bottomless brunch for £20 a head