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Viva Cafe Bar, Balham

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user reviews of Viva Cafe Bar, Balham

please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.

It is definitely has indeed seen off the competition fomr the dreadful bar Lumiere opposite, even getting some furniture from the place when it closed. I must agree with other comments saying that this is a difficult place to leave, it is very easy to settle in for a long seession here. The owner is a great chap and good for a chat, definitely worth a visit even when its quiet. Beer is bog standard however, and only got draft last year I think.
A great place to round off the night though for its mellow atmosphere.
oldhorizontal - 24 Oct 2008 17:55

Not a bar at all. This is a restaurant that just happens to have a handful of bar stools and tables outside on Balham High Road - very nice...

It is closing down soon (it's been for sale for a while now) so it is wind-down mode...
asnootyfox - 25 Aug 2007 08:34
Fine bar, slightly off the main Balham drag so pleasingly doesn't get too busy, even at the weekend - though sometimes there's a private party, which can be well lively (if you're invited to stay)

most of the time it's a really relaxing joint, with ultra-friendly staff, and decent food and drinks. Slightly tatty furnishings add to the vibe - reminds me of a large comfy lounge in a student house
anonymous - 1 Jun 2007 11:20
Nice down to earth bar with good cocktails and bottled beer choice - bargain in happy hour.

Food is really cheap and if you want big portions and nice wholesome grub, it's a good option.

Feels very friendly
anonymous - 2 Nov 2006 12:38
Great vibe in here. Looks a bit tatty, but I seem to find it impossible to leave until very late, even when I've gone in for just a quick drink. The wine list, music, and service all conspire to make me feel more comfortable than I expect to, given that it's got a look more of a cafe than bar (all tables laid out for eating).
im_johnny_cash - 22 Mar 2006 13:15
A great bar with good atmosphere, friendly staff and tasty food - good place to chill out on a weekday evening.
Canty - 7 Jun 2005 16:42
Excellent little place, with sweet barmaids and a cool owner.

Good food, and occasional football on the plasma screen is a bonus!
Andy Warrick - 4 Nov 2004 16:29
Nice plug. Shame it's no longer open for breakfast on a Sunday.
Jez - 20 May 2004 14:43
A NEW BAR IN BALHAM PLAYING SOUL MUSIC WITH A GOOD ATMOSPHER
HAS GREAT COCKTAILS HAPPY HOUR IS MONDAY TO FRIDAY 6-8PM COCKTAILS, PINTS AND BOTTLED BEERS ARE ALL ON HAPPY HOUR MENU GREAT IF YOU WANT TO GET AWAY FROM ALL THE CHAIN BARS IN BALHAM
KELLY - 10 Mar 2004 19:34

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