I visited Balanga last week, specifically to attend a music event.
From the outside, I don't think it looks very inviting, the decoration is a little dull and makes the place look intimidating. However, when I arrived inside I was warmly welcomed by staff and shown where to go for the event I was there for.
I firstly went to the bar to get a drink, and was pleasantly surprised with the prices. I had a bottle of cider, which was £3. This price is in line with other cheap bars in Bradford, so I was pleased.
The decoration inside is a huge contrast from outside, it's clean, warm and welcoming. On the ground floor, there are comfortable seats, surrounding tables which each have a lit candle to add to the ambiance. It was fairly busy, with a really good atmosphere and so I felt comfortable and relaxed.
The gig was downstairs, the stairs leading down were a little cold and felt damp. However, the room with the stage was a lovely little gem. It had round tables next to the stage, to get a good view of the band. It was really comfortable, and there was another bar downstairs, so was convenient to buy another drink whilst watching the band. The lighting was dimmed, with nice little blue fairy lights hung up around the bar.
Generally, the atmosphere was good, there was unfortunately one man who was a little disruptive due to too much alcohol, but security staff didn't hesitate to remove him straight away, which made me feel more safe and didn't spoil the atmosphere.
Finally, for any bands/music fans, the sound of the gig was impressive. At a lot of gigs at bars, there's a muffled sound due to the music being just too loud or bad quality systems, which ruins the band's talent! However, this didn't happen here, the band sounded as good as a recording. It was a good volume level, but I was still able to talk with my friend now and again over the music.
I would really recommend Bradford people to give this place a chance for a nice relaxed drink with friends. I must admit I'd never thought of visiting this bar before, but I will definitely go again! read more