The name Balham Bowls Club conjures images of nostalgic social clubs and games of bowls on the lawn, which while this isn't exactly what goes down at one of Balham's best pubs, this local boozer certainly has a sense of authenticity, history and love of good times. Its location is top-notch, just a short walk from Balham underground station making it an easy stop for a quick drink, watching a game or settling in for lunch or dinner with friends.
As you might have guessed, the venue has a history with bowls and around the space you'll find memorabilia from the original club which adds a nice layer to the decor, as well as a talking point for drinkers and diners. Sport is still a big focus today, and the team show all the major games across football, rugby and cricket. It's a hot spot for big groups of mates, so feel free to bring your best buds down for an afternoon of socialising and spectatorship.
But, sport isn't the only thing on the menu. Balham Bowls Club is known for its gastro prowess, too. From the main menu, you might start with a selection of nibbles for the table, such as duck rillette with piccalilli on sourdough or crisp chicken thighs with Korean ketchup. To start, why not share a mix of small plates like roasted beetroot tartare with goat’s cheese mousse sprinkled with sunflower seeds alongside chargrilled squid with spring onion salsa, Isle of Wight tomatoes and lime mayo for a zing.
Main dishes look like confit Aylesbury duck cassoulet with Toulouse sausage, haricot beans and smoked bacon for something rich and satisfying, or how about the likes of roast corn-fed White Cobb chicken breast with Pink Fir potatoes, Swiss chard, girolles and tarragon broth. It's an impressively varied menu with global references and unexpected ingredient choices that'll have you coming back for more than the atmosphere!