The Loft (bar)

The management of this rather strange spot has made the most of unpromising surroundings – a concrete bunker above Sainsbury’s – by furnishing the interior with great leather sofas & making a feature from the interesting urban sky-scape out of the windows. Add congenial folk behind the bar, & a varied choice of drinks (including ‘stupendous’ cocktails) & it’s easier to see why the door staff have their work cut out at weekends (though they’re ‘friendlier than most’ in the area). The Loft may not be as glamorous or grand as other Clapham venues, but for locals who want to have a good time without trying too hard, it’s a safe bet. During the week, the kitchen gains praise for its easy, unpretentious food: bar nibbles, sharing platters, fishcakes & steaks, all for under a tenner.