The Hope, Balham  

An absolutely cracking makeover since our last visit a couple of years ago now combines comfort, style and class with superb beers and great, good value food - guinea fowl in red wine or cod loin with pesto, for example, and parmesan are each less than nine quid. The corner site provides a triple aspect on to Wandsworth common and the big windows and high ceilings contribute to a light airy feel. Furnishing is an eclectic mix of squashy and arty sofas, traditional wood and just-this-side-of practical modern stuff, mixed with features like traditional butchers' chopping tables. It's bigger than it looks with that airy lounge and a few steps up to the bar area and then a couple of smaller areas just off that. Beers change regularly and have included Pride, Black Sheep, Harvey's, Ringwood and Deuchars and there's a decent wine list. Pricing reflects the aspirational nature of the area - it is virtually next door to the Michelin starred Chez Bruce.

reviewed:
8/5/2006

pub features:(click on an icon to see an explanation)

real ale - regular guest beers

quiz night Monday

ATM on premises

dogs welcome

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