Tooting Tram and Social

As you might expect, this new bar is in Tooting; Broadway, not Bec. Next to a McDonalds. But don't let that put you off. It's cavernous, cool and quirky, furnished in a style that we're going to call, rather pretentiously, 'embroidered industrial'. The new owners, who also run the Balham Bowling Club, have somehow transformed a vast, austere former warehouse and - you guessed - tramshed into something intimate, interesting and incredibly eclectic.

A birdcage filled with fairy lights and six gloriously grandiose chandeliers dangle from up on high, while funky fabrics soften the impressive tile-clad walls and there's all manner of junk and jumble about the place. We're SO over minimalism sweetie. To drink there's a selection of not-too-inspiring wines and simple list of cocktails. Timothy Taylor Landlord is the sole handpull beer, but Grolsch Weizen is a tasty accomplice. Chilling out in the fridge are Tusker from Kenya, Cusquena ('the brew from Peru') and Freedom Lager.

Peckish? There are only fancy snacks for the moment, but plans are afoot for a restaurant on the mezzanine level, apparently. When you bore of gawping at the decor, there are occasional DJs, live bands, art exhibitions and the odd burlesque show, though at the moment these seem very intermittent. It's still a relatively quiet and unknown venue, so enjoy the space and sofas while you can.
Ben McFarland

Time Out Issue 1957: February 20-26 2008

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Latest user reviews

A fantastic space. Great for an evening out with a special someone or just to hang out with a few friends. The decor is unique and interesting - a great experience - highly recommended.
Roy Persson  Mar 15 2008