The most recognized name in casual high-definition-gay London dining, Balans caters to carnivores and vegetarians with a one-of-each-style international menu at this and other branches. It's a very lively establishment and comfortingly queer, especially for first-time visitors, with an open front conveniently looking onto gay-friendly Soho catwalk Old Compton St. The tagline is 'haven for the convivial'. However, since its 1993 debut the cooking has been considerably less than vital,...
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Hours
Mon to Sat 10am—5am
Sun 10am—12.30am
Hours
Mon to Sat 10am—5am
Sun 10am—12.30am
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Definitely pushes the right gay buttons, but where it really matters (the food), it falters badly (and it's overpriced).
Nice Place For A Quick Bite.
While it's a nice place to grab a quick bite, the food is really nothing special. If you're a first time visitor to gay London this is a pretty good jumping off point, but don't expect too much as far as the food is concerned.
A fixture of Old Compton Street
Soho is certainly well served by a number of high quality restaurants on the streets surrounding Old Compton Street. However, there's one restaurant & cafe on the street that draws a crowd of locals and visitors and you can always rely it for a friendly welcome and to get a table. The menu offers many familiar comfort dishes and the service is consistently good.