Raj India of the 1940s is the theme at this new Tooting drinking den. Set up by ex-Olympic rower Alastair Heathcote and his brother Nicholas, Imperial Durbar specialises in beers, cocktails, coffees and chais (spiced teas) in a quirky warehouse setting inspired by the old East India Company and the reign of Maharaja Bhupinder. Expect a mix of traditional furniture, rich Asian colours, sanded floorboards and wrought iron, plus odd touches such as Indian coins and rupees stuck into the bar. Breakfast brings muffins, croissants etc, while naan-bread ‘paninis’ will feature at lunchtime. Otherwise, retreat to the Imperial Garden (which comes with a retractable roof) for an ice-cold beer or a Raj-sized G&T with some locally baked nibbles. Looking for a more exclusive experience? Head to The Durbar Room with its outdoor Indian terrace, or The Library Snug – a cosy space next to the DJ booth with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves.