The Grove

Charming Ambiance and Attentive, Friendly Staff

Stepping into The Grove in Balham feels like discovering a hidden oasis amidst the urban hustle—a place where both tradition and modern flair meet. After a recent refurb that beauty restories dignity to its walls—which once echoed with weary old pub vibes—the space now glimmers with an inviting elegance punctuated by artistic quirks. It offers an ambiance that's both warm and welcoming—you'd feel just at home dropping by for a pint as celebrating life’s larger milestones, cozy enough for intimate family gatherings but still resonating with an air of congeniality. Their attentive staff, notably Julia and Annie, pour genuine warmth into every gesture, ensuring patrons don't merely dine but immerse within a sphere of jovial camaraderie.

Indeed, the inviting atmosphere extends effortlessly to the culinary realm at The Grove. Succulent Sunday roasts, whose specialties are further compliments to their robust Bloody Marys, showcase the menu's capability to marry the traditional English pub comfort with an assured culinary delight. Highlights included the gorgeously curated veggie Wellington, which held its own amid more conventional meat-centric selections, establishing its vegetarian options as far from afterthoughts. Despite some grumbles about stretching service times during peak dining hours, with occasional misplaced rounds of drinks hinting at kinks yet to be ironed out, one leaves with fond culinary memories unwelcome disruptions forgot. The pleasing array of drinks, great margaritas to house-recommended pints, holds court as conversations ripple under the anchored gaze of well-rendered portraits hanging silently approving. The Grove is an abode of gastronomical sincerity, ripe with attributes making it an irresistible revisit. — Audrey Al Dente