1 Clapham Common Southside,
Clapham,
London,
SW4 7AA
0871 971 3206
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
The kind of bar where people go and think ‘yes, my life is exactly like Rachel from Friend’s’. Dull, uninspired and seemingly sponsored by Carling – it’s a shame, because Belle Vue could be so great.
The Venue
For some reason there is an ornate metal work thing straddling the gap between a wall and a post. It looks lovely, original and almost quaint, but at its centre is a Carling sign, blotting out all authentic feeling. There’s nothing wrong with bland - a bland bar today is better than ten years ago, because ten years ago Starbucks came along and showed all chains how to Seattle up their establishments. Having learned from the manual of the US new world, Belle Vue is essentially an alcohol-selling Starbucks.
The Atmosphere
The lighting is soft and the clientele ranges from pensioners to Clapham stalwarts. But a cloud of middle-class risklessness hovers over it all. It’s not quite cosy or atmospheric enough for a good dining experience and not quite gritty or interesting enough for a bar. There are many people who enjoy their time at Belle Vue and come back. But many of them are on a line of least resistance to the suburbs with a three piece sofa set and a dog named Dog. If you’re looking for a catalogue bar experience, you’ll find it here.
The Food
Actually good, if slightly unadventurous. The Sunday Roast is fine, with some good hunks of meat and fluffed up roast potatoes with delectable crispy shells. A ‘Sunday in Autumn’ atmosphere helps the dining experience - especially if it’s a Sunday in autumn.
The Drink
There’s quite an extensive wine list at Belle Vue and the great selection of ales that Clapham is becoming renowned for. You’ll find what you want, but some have complained at the prices. It’s becoming hard to find a cheap drink in Clapham.
The Last Word
Belle Vue is so close to being great and coffee shop friendly; however, the wrought iron installation complete with Carling sign says it all.
Belle Vue has been reviewed by 7 users