The Grove — Restaurant in London

If you’re looking for the kind of pub that gets everything right — atmosphere, drinks, food, service, and character — then The Grove is exactly where you want to be. It’s not just good. It’s exceptional.

From the moment you walk through the doors, The Grove makes an impression. There’s a genuine warmth to the place — not just from the soft lighting or the exposed brick and timber interiors, but from the atmosphere itself. It strikes that rare balance of feeling both vibrant and relaxed, like it’s always Friday night, but never overcrowded.

The layout is thoughtful, with cosy corners for a quiet pint, high tables for more social get-togethers, and a beautiful garden out back that becomes magical in the summer. You can tell a lot of care has gone into designing a space that people want to spend time in — and clearly do. There’s a real sense of community here, with familiar faces chatting to the staff, newcomers welcomed without fuss, and an energy that feels both inclusive and easygoing.

The drinks offering is outstanding. The bar is beautifully stocked with a rotating selection of local cask ales, an enviable craft beer list, and a wine menu that goes far beyond what you’d expect from a typical pub — both in variety and quality. If you’re into cocktails, you’re in for a treat. The Grove takes them seriously. Whether it’s a perfectly balanced espresso martini or a refreshing elderflower spritz, they don’t cut corners.

Now let’s talk about the food. This is where The Grove really sets itself apart. It’s elevated without ever being pretentious. Classics are honoured — think fish and chips with crispy beer batter and hand-cut chips, or a Sunday roast with proper Yorkshire puddings and silky gravy — but there’s also creativity. Seasonal menus bring in fresh ideas: small plates designed for sharing, vibrant vegetarian options, and specials that make you want to come back the very next day. The portions are generous, the presentation elegant without being over the top, and everything tastes fresh, considered, and deeply satisfying.

And then there’s the service. Friendly without being pushy. Knowledgeable without being overbearing. Whether you’re ordering a pint or asking for a recommendation on wine, the staff know their stuff and treat you like a regular, even if it’s your first visit. That’s rare. And it goes a long way.

Every element of The Grove has been curated with pride — and it shows. It’s the kind of pub that understands tradition but isn’t afraid to evolve. A place where you can bring your dog, your partner, your colleagues, or your parents and know everyone will have a great time.

If you’re anywhere near, make the trip. If you’re not, it’s worth going out of your way for. The Grove is the kind of pub that reminds you just how good a British pub can be when it’s done properly.

Five stars....

Update-I went to the Grove with my mum on the on the 29-10-21 for a lunch time meal...big mistake. I already gave a bad review a few months back, however I see now they have changed the menu when it comes to a steak i.e now they have a peppercorn sauce and tomato with the meal where before you didn’t get jack but still charged the full price.

The rump steak was unfortunately bad, way to chewy and fat that my poor old mum struggled to eat the thing, she left most of it over, as I did too. Not one member of staff came over to ask us how we are finding are meal, no one cared :(

To add insult to injury today we went to the weatherspoons in Clapham junction for a steak and you know what? It was fantastic! And half the price of what we paid at the expensive Grove and two members of staff came over to check how we were finding the meal.

Obviously you know something is seriously wrong when weatherspoons Is doing way better food then your local pub.

I normally really enjoy going to Grove as i always love the food and it was reasonably priced but unfortunately that is no longer the case (The food is still good but not the price) I took my mother to the Grove last week for a birthday meal and we could not believe how much they have changed the menu. We order two rump steaks, (they were the only steaks they had on the menu) which was £20 pounds each, my mother had two gin and tonics and i had one pint of diet cook. The meal came to £68 pounds in total! That is probably the most i have ever spent in pub for a meal, I have spent the same amount of money in hifalutin restaurants but never in a pub! Also i asked for peppercorn sauce, which the Grove used to always serve but the barmaid inform me the Grove no longer do that sauce, another thing that was missing on our plate was a tomato, which again the Grove use to always do but i guess that has changed now as well. I have always loved this pub as it is local to me and was good value but now sadly i would no longer recommend the Grove as it is way over price...

Fantastic Experience at The Grove in Balham!

I recently visited The Grove in Balham, and it was one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in a long time. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed by the friendly, attentive staff who made every effort to ensure we had a memorable evening. The atmosphere was spot-on – cozy, relaxed, and perfect for a catch-up with friends or an intimate dinner. The decor is stylish yet comfortable, creating just the right vibe for a neighborhood gem like The Grove. The layout also makes it feel spacious, even when it's busy. The food was simply outstanding! Each dish was crafted with such attention to flavor and presentation – you can tell they use high-quality ingredients. The cocktails and wine list were equally impressive, with some unique options that really rounded out the meal. The service was impeccable. The staff were knowledgeable about the menu and offered fantastic recommendations. They were always nearby without being intrusive, making the whole experience feel effortless and special. It’s rare to see such a high level of attentiveness and warmth from start to finish. I would highly recommend The Grove in Balham to anyone looking for a top-notch dining experience in the area. Whether you're there for brunch, dinner, or just drinks, you’re in for an exceptional time. This place has earned a spot on my list of favorites, and I’m already planning my next visit. Thank you to the team at The Grove for such an...