The Grove, Balham

Four of us came for a roast on the sunday just gone and were universally disappointed. Chicken Liver pate with red onion chutney looked and tasted like it was from the own brand section at Iceland and was not even served with toast just bits of stale ciabatta and the Prawn cocktail came from that same freezer cabinet. Things did't get any better with the mains, the meats were all totally overcooked and of poor quality as was veg/fish. Staff were pleasant enough and were obviously aware of the dogs dinner we were served as no one dared to ask whether we enjoyed our meal...apparently it's better during the week.

25 Feb 2008 10:23

The Clarence, Balham

Having been impressed by the Bishop was relieved to hear of the arrival of Clarence having been a recent victim of a number of shocking meals at Balham's only real other Gastro type pub the execrable Grove. Popped in for a quick drink and a bite and i can echo the sentiments below. Without any doubt this is the best pub in Balham, drinks, food and ambience were all top notch and the table service great....waitresses extremely easy on the eye.

1 Mar 2006 13:02

The Grove, Balham

Started going to this pub early/mid 04 and it was great: quality food with a constantly changing menu, a good atmosphere for beers and pleasant staff. Admittedly the service was pretty sketchy but the ambience and the food made up for it. After a hiatus i revisited and unfortunately in that time Youngs have got involved and have manged to screw things up. Surly staff with no english who can't get an order right and food that has been too disgusting too eat on three consecutive occasions. Bewarned the chefs ability does not stretch beyond Burgers/Fish + chips.

27 Feb 2006 09:33