Walking up to The Loft, a new restaurant atop The Alexandra Pub in Wimbledon, my first impression was one of shock.

Loud music blared out in the sun as scores of people merged together in what looked like an attempt to recreate Ibiza - surely you can't eat here?

But once you make your way through the crowd, out back is a beautiful balcony overlooking the sun-kissed streets of Wimbledon - that's more like it, I thought.

My friend and I began with the salt beef croquettes and buttermilk wings - the former with mustard mayo and pickles while the latter came with "kickass hot sauce", blue cheese dip and celery.

With the batter cooked perfectly, the croquettes offer a really tasty start to the evening, fit with delicious pickles dressed neatly around the plate.

And the chicken wings, too, are coated in a clean batter that doesn't drip off the meat upon lifting for the first time.

The American-inspired restaurant does also have an indoor area which, since there are only a small number of outdoor tables, is your most likely destination unless you book in advance.

On to our mains and, fitting with my choice of delicious Featherdrop Bay Sauvignon Blanc, I chose the half lobster, fries and salad.

Though £20 sounds hefty for a main, it's good value for money for this notoriously expensive crustacean - offering that juicy, flavoursome kick you come to expect from its price tag.

Meanwhile my friend's choice of Chilli Pulled Pork burger, although quite a challenge to eat and coming in at some height, packs a good offering.

Finishing off I had the double chocolate and walnut brownie with vanilla ice cream.

Though fairly pleasant, the brownie seemed a little too dry so it didn't quite offer that squishy, sweet taste you'd come to expect from a restaurant-standard brownie.

The verdict

Britain's belated summer will not have done this place any harm. In a city where balcony views offer a glance at the rush of it all, this one instead provides a view of Wimbledon's toned-down atmosphere.

Getwestlondon gives The Loft three stars out of five.