Updated on 08 January 2020
For years, maybe centuries even, Balham was always just regarded as that pass through spot somewhere or other between Clapham and Tooting bridging the green trinity that is Clapham, Wandsworth and Tooting Commons and suspended on the southern end of the Northern line. It was even harshly labelled once as “the ugliest and most abominable of London’s unpleasing suburbs,” by Swallows and Amazons author Arthur Ransome who stayed there briefly.
And yet slowly but surely Balham has become (dare we say it) actually quite a desirable area! Acquiring its own identity when surrounded by arguably the trendiest districts south of the Thames has been no easy feat, but with the allure of lower housing costs and council tax, a selection of good schools, excellent transport links and the sprouting of independent coffee shops, bars and restaurants along its buzzy high street, Balham has gained a reputation as a family-friendly spot with a welcoming community feel.
Granted, it’s a more mature crowd than Clapham with fewer opportunities for a wild night out – but with a cinema, annual comedy festival, and Tooting Bec Lido on its doorstop, it’s certainly not short of attractions. Its restaurants also have their own unique appeal and are in many ways Balham’s best kept secret. Generally speaking they’re low-key affairs, offering unpretentious but good quality food at affordable prices. The sort of places you walk in with low expectations and leave feeling smug because you’ve uncovered a hidden gem. But fear not, whilst the lips of Balham’s residents may remain tightly sealed, we are not afraid to shout about all the top foodie hotspots SW12 has to offer. So have a browse of our list of the best restaurants in Balham and get out and explore this upcoming area of south west London before everyone else does!
1 & 3 Fernlea Road, London, SW12 9RT
1 the Boulevard, Balham High Road, On Corner of Elmfield road, London, SW17 7BW
77 Bedford Hill, London, London, SW12 9HD
20 Bedford Hill, London, SW12 9RG
21 Chestnut Grove Balham, London, London, SW12 8JE
53 Bedford Hill, Balham, London, SW12 9EZ
3 Ramsden Road, London, SW12 8QY
39 Oldridge Road, Balham, London, SW12 8PN
12 Balham Station Road, London, London, SW12 9SG
41-43 Bedford Hill, London, SW12 9EY
31 Balham High Road, London, London, SW12 9AL
96 Bedford Hill, Balham, London, SW12 9HR
Keen to explore more of South London? Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Brixton.
Collect points, worth at least £1, every time you book online and dine at a participating restaurant.
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