I visited this Balans location late one evening, after walking up & down the shopping center to try to find somewhere where the kitchen was still open, and where they had some kind of covered patio seating. That London weather was not for me, at all. I cherish warm summer nights, where all one needs is a sundress and sandals.... clearly, my Americana was showing, as I swaddled in my scarf, double layers, jacket & tennis'.
So, our waiter was immediately inundated with questions from me about the drinks menu, since the bar was about to close, and I definitely needed something toasty to warm me up. I had never tried absinthe, and asked if they'd had any on hand. He assured me that they did, and actually gave me a free shot to try. He was Italian and explained that the absinthe they served in the U.K. wasn't the more potent 'real' version. I believe he said the other countries in Europe's laws allowed for 80%... not 80 proof (yikes)... absinthe to be served. Guess I'll have to add that to my bucket list, one day.
So along with the superb service, the food was pretty good. I ordered the crab linguine, which was packed full of flavor. It seemed to have chives and herbs spread throughout; and, although rich, wasn't saturated in oil. I also tried their double-dipped chips. Those were great, and helped me solve another problem that I have with our friends across the pond.... I can't get with the healthy, appropriate portion servings. I swear that my stomach was growling the entire duration of the trip... we really do serve too much, compared to many other parts of the world! So, yeah, those fries helped fill the gap in my belly...
I'd come back again, for a nice evening dinner. read more