Hagen & Hyde, Balham, SW12

Bucking Fastard left this review about Hagen & Hyde

A highly unusual Antic pub (aren't they all ?) worthy of inspection.This shop conversion has fully incorporated the original Victorian house behind the long shop frontage and with the use of multiple RSJ's the rear has been opened up to the full height creating a church like feel with a vast bar back on the right side,not only with bottles but also inacceable rows of books topped off by a traditional clock.The front shop area has metal furniture,elsewhere more trad but everywhere are exposed brickwork walls with some interesting decorations and a collection of grey umberellas on the ceiling.Various flatscreens will show Premiership football but are sensibly turned off when there is no live footie.
Beyond the bar there is a mezzanine level with seating opposite an open nkitchen and doors to the beer garden,while below the mezzanine down some steps is a modern windowless snug with a night club feel.
On entering there was a major whiff of incense,and with a classic rock and blues soundtrack I was transported back to my student days of parties and potential fornication.However I spotted that the attractive barmaid was sneaking a few draws on her vape on this quiet Friday lunchtime accounting for the pleasant smell,but it didn't stop my mind from wandering until I had to oder from Volden Pale and Session,Sharp's Sea Fury,Wimbledon Best and Thornbridge Jaipur IPA (Very reasonable £5.65,NBSS 3).There was no food on offer but 12 kegs taps for a mix of lagers,IPA's ,whit beir and sparkling ciders.
Worth popping in to inspect the interior,Volden x2 and Jaipur are permanents so real alers are accomodated and as with all Antic pubs there's a charming quirkyness.

On 4^th May 2024 - rating: 7
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