At the heart of Balham for over 21 years, The Exhibit offers something for everyone, an escape from home to make your own. Spread over three floors, the relaxed space can be used for anything from work to play; from breakfast, brunch, and coffee, to intimate dinners, cocktails, dancing, private events and late-night parties.
On the ground floor is the central bar, lounge spaces, large covered terrace and the secret garden. For those wanting to escape the confines of the home office, there's plenty of plug sockets and super-fast wifi. Up one floor you will find the open plan mezzanine with a large covered balcony. Next door is The Studio, a private room ideal for special occasions with friends and family.
On the ground floor is the central bar, lounge spaces, large covered terrace and the secret garden. For those wanting to escape the confines of the home office, there's plenty of plug sockets and super-fast wifi. Up one floor you will find the open plan mezzanine with a large covered balcony. Next door is The Studio, a private room ideal for special occasions with friends and family.
Services
Our food menu is cooked from scratch, sourcing the best quality freshest ingredients. Where possible we use the best local suppliers, all our meat is supplied by Balham's very own Chadwicks Butchers. Featuring seasonal plates to share, home comforts, light bites, bar snacks, lots of vegan options & of course beautiful brunches.
We have a collection of private spaces suitable for every occasion spread over three floors. From an intimate private dinner to a large-scale celebration, outdoor summer parties or cosy cinema sessions. Or if you are looking for a space to put on your own event or class we would love to hear from you.
You can hot-desk with us Tuesday to Friday from opening till 5pm (or later if we have the spaces free of course) Hotdesking is open from 10am with a complimentary coffee for every hotdesker. You can hot-desk on the ground floor, the mezzanine or even out in the garden if you fancy it. We also have private rooms you can book out if you need a meeting space or the cinema room to make presentations.
Our ever-changing events and entertainment schedule offers something for everyone. From trying your hand at life drawing to weekly feel good film screenings in our boutique cinema, live music or DJs to keep you dancing. Go from day to night all under one roof. Paint A Pic Come down and paint your own masterpiece with the guidance of our resident artist.
Our boutique community cinema features amazing surround sound and super comfortable sofas for you to enjoy feel-good classic movies every week. We show a variety of films from arthouse to the latest blockbuster, family screenings to feel good singalong musicals. Our cinema is also available to private hire for 195 for two hours.
Reviews (26)
Anthony Hicks
Jan 17, 2022
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Nice venue with great friendly staff. Unfortunately they have no sound level control and blast music at permanently damaging levels over 100db(a) throughout the venue (as measured and warned by Apple Watch). Conversation is impossible and you leave with ringing ears. I had to leave despite being there to celebrate a mates birthday (15/01/22). The legal limit/guideline is 85db(a). Save your precious hearing and avoid as unfortunately they lack a duty of care for their guests.
Nicola Mccullough
Dec 15, 2021
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Ja Ch
Dec 11, 2021
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Ryannah Tee
Nov 08, 2021
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We were looked after by Becca throughout the night during our event. She was soo attentive and did not hesitate to make sure our requests were managed in a timely manner. Becca’s kindness and patience contributed to the success of our event, in which we were so grateful for! Great private venue, good customer service.
Louise Chapman
Oct 01, 2021
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Had a wonderful meal here on 14th September. Tom was our waiter - he was superb. Super friendly and efficient, remembered everything, checked in on us just the right amount- he clearly cared very much that we enjoyed our experience at The Exhibit. Working in customer service myself, I really appreciate great service and for me, it can make out break a 'dining out' experience.
Our meal was delicious and great value. Restaurant had a great vibe. I would return to The Exhibit in a heartbeat - and hope Tom is there. I hope The Exhibit value him and the impact he has on their guests.
Our meal was delicious and great value. Restaurant had a great vibe. I would return to The Exhibit in a heartbeat - and hope Tom is there. I hope The Exhibit value him and the impact he has on their guests.
Lazar Emilia
Sep 17, 2021
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Chlo C.
Sep 10, 2021
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Booked the Gallery Room for.a party and was very happy with everything.
There were no issues on the night and staff were very helpful.
Drinks were also good and priced well. I would defo recommend and book again. One thing I will say is it did take good few weeks for me to receive my refunded deposit.
There were no issues on the night and staff were very helpful.
Drinks were also good and priced well. I would defo recommend and book again. One thing I will say is it did take good few weeks for me to receive my refunded deposit.
Chloe Smith
May 31, 2021
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Carla Francesca
Aug 10, 2020
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Laura C.
Oct 22, 2016
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Extremely expensive drinks - Hendricks gin £11! But after recovering from the shock, it's a decent venue.
Lots of birthday groups on a Saturday afternoon, most likely taking advantage of the unlimited Prosecco - £20 over 1.5 hrs. So if you want to guarantee a messy night, go for that...
There's the cinema upstairs, which you can hire out apparently. And who wouldn't want their very own movie theatre?
Lots of birthday groups on a Saturday afternoon, most likely taking advantage of the unlimited Prosecco - £20 over 1.5 hrs. So if you want to guarantee a messy night, go for that...
There's the cinema upstairs, which you can hire out apparently. And who wouldn't want their very own movie theatre?
Lilli D.
Aug 04, 2015
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Definitely my favourite place in Balham. I havnt eaten here though only had drinks a few times but it is always really lively. there is nice outdoor seating and multi level. i love it ! the view of the car park and train station is a bit boring but the vibe is still awesome and the staff were so friendly. Will be my new sunday regular !
Alex D.
May 09, 2015
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Luke C.
Apr 11, 2015
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The main highlight of the exhibit for me is the cinema. It is small enough to be cosy and very comfortable but still has a good atmosphere. I've seen a few films here and is a great date place. Night life on a Friday/Saturday used to be great but I haven't been since its been refurbished so it may well have changed.
Stephanie O.
Jul 13, 2014
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Natalie P.
Apr 16, 2012
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I've only been to The Exhibit on one occasion and it was okay but nothing too special especially for Balham which I think is a good area to go out in.
My friend suggested it and we went there on a Saturday night before going onto other places so it was more than okay for that purpose. It was packed, typical for a Saturday night but also a big Rugby game had been on that day so there was a crowd because of that.
It took ages to get served, it seemed to be one of those the more beautiful you are or the more you push other people, the quicker you'll be served type of joints! We had a
My friend suggested it and we went there on a Saturday night before going onto other places so it was more than okay for that purpose. It was packed, typical for a Saturday night but also a big Rugby game had been on that day so there was a crowd because of that.
It took ages to get served, it seemed to be one of those the more beautiful you are or the more you push other people, the quicker you'll be served type of joints! We had a
Jaclyn L.
Apr 18, 2011
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When it comes to local dining at a good price and quality, The Exhibit has it. Since moving to Balham we've come here for more than a good couple of meals. Their 3-9-3 menu (£3 - starter, £9 - main, £3 - dessert) is well worth what's on offer and their staff are always friendly.
More recently we went to try their new spring menu at a discount of 50% on all food. I had the duck fillet salad to start with rocket and vinaigrette, then the lamb's liver with mash and a mouth-watering gravy and I just couldn't resist the rhubarb compote to end the meal with. Their portions are
More recently we went to try their new spring menu at a discount of 50% on all food. I had the duck fillet salad to start with rocket and vinaigrette, then the lamb's liver with mash and a mouth-watering gravy and I just couldn't resist the rhubarb compote to end the meal with. Their portions are
Qype User Mrmark
Jun 06, 2010
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Qype User Jsal
Mar 07, 2010
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Balham has always been one of those places I have considered waaaaaaay down South. My trip to The Exhibit was my first time down there and I was pleasantly surprised to find the trip from Victoria on the overground quick and easy.
We started in the bar, which I must admit I was not mad about. Maybe I just chose badly from the menu but I thought the drinks were just ok. The passion martini I had was very sweet and hard to drink, but I suppose I expected passion juice and I got passion flavored liquor or something like it instead. However it was all up from there...
The cinema was great. I
We started in the bar, which I must admit I was not mad about. Maybe I just chose badly from the menu but I thought the drinks were just ok. The passion martini I had was very sweet and hard to drink, but I suppose I expected passion juice and I got passion flavored liquor or something like it instead. However it was all up from there...
The cinema was great. I
Qype User Mighty
Mar 01, 2010
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When I heard about The Exhibit Bar I was immediately suspicious: a bar that was boasting to be Bar, Restaurant and Cinema ... as a bit of a cinephile this sounded like an all to familiar mashup that ultimately destroyed the cinema part of the experience.
I was lucky enough to blag an invite to the Qype meetup there on Friday for the Anchorman screening so a real chance to find out. Meeting in the bar downstairs we started with cocktails, the staff were brilliant and really knew their stuff. We moved on to the top floor for the screening where I was pleased to find a completely self contained cinema
I was lucky enough to blag an invite to the Qype meetup there on Friday for the Anchorman screening so a real chance to find out. Meeting in the bar downstairs we started with cocktails, the staff were brilliant and really knew their stuff. We moved on to the top floor for the screening where I was pleased to find a completely self contained cinema
Qype User Mseaso
Mar 01, 2010
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The Exhibit is an all-in-one entertainment centre. Everything you need for a night out - cinema, bar and restaurant all in one place.
The bar is pretty hip, and the private cinema is brilliant. Very comfy two-seat couches with candlelit tables and drinks around the corner. What more could you ask for?
Must admit I wasn't over the moon about the restaurant. The food is super cheap (all starters £3, all mains £9), but it shows in quality. There are plenty of places in Balham that are better for about the same price.
Go here for everything but the food!
The bar is pretty hip, and the private cinema is brilliant. Very comfy two-seat couches with candlelit tables and drinks around the corner. What more could you ask for?
Must admit I wasn't over the moon about the restaurant. The food is super cheap (all starters £3, all mains £9), but it shows in quality. There are plenty of places in Balham that are better for about the same price.
Go here for everything but the food!
Patrick F.
Feb 28, 2010
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Normally I find that when a venue tries to be all things to all people, it ends up being nothing to nobody (shut up, double-negative pedants)... Exhibit however, pulls it off.
The top floor screening room is definitely the highlight: large wall projection and tiered leather sofa seating for 2 dozen or so make it a perfect place to hire for a screening for your friends, or to pop in and catch a recent release for a fiver.
The middle floor houses a decent restaurant with a well priced menu: pork ribs were fall off the bone succulent, and the risotto was creamy and flavoursome (two dishes that
The top floor screening room is definitely the highlight: large wall projection and tiered leather sofa seating for 2 dozen or so make it a perfect place to hire for a screening for your friends, or to pop in and catch a recent release for a fiver.
The middle floor houses a decent restaurant with a well priced menu: pork ribs were fall off the bone succulent, and the risotto was creamy and flavoursome (two dishes that
George M.
Feb 17, 2010
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Went there, for dinner a couple of days ago, and I have to say I was very impressed!
Their menu is called 393 - in that all their starters are £3, the mains are £9 and desserts £3. At prices like this I have to say I didn't come in with the highest of expectations, but they definitely bowled me over!
The food is great and so is the surroundings... very Balham Chic.
The Exhibit comprises a ground floor Cocktail Bar, a 1st floor restaurant and a 2nd floor Cinema. The whole place works really well and is a great example of Balham's "up-and-coming" but unpretentious vibe
Their menu is called 393 - in that all their starters are £3, the mains are £9 and desserts £3. At prices like this I have to say I didn't come in with the highest of expectations, but they definitely bowled me over!
The food is great and so is the surroundings... very Balham Chic.
The Exhibit comprises a ground floor Cocktail Bar, a 1st floor restaurant and a 2nd floor Cinema. The whole place works really well and is a great example of Balham's "up-and-coming" but unpretentious vibe
Zoe K.
Jul 21, 2009
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I've been in here a few times and I can't say I'm head over heels for the place, but it's okay if you live in the area and don't want to travel too far. The bar area on the ground floor feels a little seedy and a bit dark and dinghy. It also feels quite empty when it's not totally packed--the furniture lines the walls and leaves a large open space in the middle. Maybe it turns into a raucous dance floor late at night?
Although they have some tables out front, they look out on to the Sainsbury's parking lot so it's not exactly picturesque.
I will say
Although they have some tables out front, they look out on to the Sainsbury's parking lot so it's not exactly picturesque.
I will say
Bob T.
Nov 28, 2008
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Went here last saturday, was ok but like most of Balham it lacked any sort of atmosphere to make you want to stay. The seating area outside is good though with loads of space.
It's got a fish tank too, in fact I like to think this is where those fish who have done their time in infernos come to retire.
It's got a fish tank too, in fact I like to think this is where those fish who have done their time in infernos come to retire.
Claire L.
Nov 05, 2008
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I was drawn to The Exhibit on the promise of some very fine cocktails indeed. I decided to visit The Exhibit with some girlfriends for the start of this year's birthday weekend, I though cocktails and a good gab would be appropriate here.
I didn't think much of the exterior. It looked a little drab and didn't have the pizazz that I had seen on the website. However, looks can be deceiving and I was just looking forward to tasting these infamous cocktails!
The Exhibit is a 3 level venue. The first floor has a bustling bar, the second is the restaurant and cocktail bar and the third
I didn't think much of the exterior. It looked a little drab and didn't have the pizazz that I had seen on the website. However, looks can be deceiving and I was just looking forward to tasting these infamous cocktails!
The Exhibit is a 3 level venue. The first floor has a bustling bar, the second is the restaurant and cocktail bar and the third
Qype User Davepe
Feb 05, 2008
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Now, I was here last week, and I've been here before and know it's a better place, but I'm in two minds whether to go back.
It's a really really nice bar/restaurant/cinema, with enormous leather sofas, a wall-to-wall fish tank and great selection of food and drinks. However, last sunday I came in for Sunday Lunch, and the place was chaos. I ordered a Breakfast and a Coke, and my friend went for a Burger and a Bulmers. The drinks took twenty minutes to arrive, the food took an hour. And my Breakfast was missing it's bacon.
This could have been forgivable, as I understand
It's a really really nice bar/restaurant/cinema, with enormous leather sofas, a wall-to-wall fish tank and great selection of food and drinks. However, last sunday I came in for Sunday Lunch, and the place was chaos. I ordered a Breakfast and a Coke, and my friend went for a Burger and a Bulmers. The drinks took twenty minutes to arrive, the food took an hour. And my Breakfast was missing it's bacon.
This could have been forgivable, as I understand
