Adventure Bar Balham

After a modest start south of the river, Adventure has evolved into a bona fide mini-chain with several branches dotted around the capital. Each venue varies in size and scale, but all are dedicated to the spirit of good-time partying – with extended happy hours (from 5pm) every day and properly showy bartenders on hand to dispense the liquid assets. Creations such as umpa lumpa (Malibu, cacao, Frangelico, milk and cream) cater to the vertically challenged, while tall calls might include London mule (Beefeater gin, berry purée, ginger beer and lime) or Uncle Vanya (a sherbet-style vodka sour). Elsewhere, Nero must die (a Jameson’s-based martini) is an alco-espresso bullet, and the theatrical flaming zombie (a rum-embroidered Caribbean blazer) is worth wearing at £8.50.