Crooked Billet

Cozy Pub with Top-Tier Sunday Roasts

The unmistakable charm of The Crooked Billet hits you as soon as you wander off the well-trodden paths of Wimbledon Common. Like a comforting chapter in an old favorite novel, the pub manages to strike a delicate balance between neighborhood fixture and all-inclusive haven. Upon my recent visit, it was clear this pub brims over with things that keep regulars loyal—a warm embrace between traditional charm and contemporary gustatory delights. There was Jess with her easy smile, confidently managing to make everyone feel at home as she takes care of more than just their orders. Sunday roast here isn’t just a meal; it's a celebration, a tableau of expertly seasoned meats, airy Yorkshire puddings, and vegetables crisp from oven magic.

Inside, sun-dappled afternoons shift easily into warm-lit evenings as a convergence of patrons unwind, complemented by scenic views reaching out onto pristine common lands. Yes, the occasional hiccup might surface; casual crowds finding it bustling or food requiring nudges towards culinary perfection. Still, you’re toward friendly botanical-infused cocktails and Dan's well-curated wine pours—a spectacular Sauternes or a cheeky Merlot pairing—while echoes of boisterous quizzes become melody enough to distract from time’s advance. It's less about the flaw, more about the cheer—the resonant hum of lively friends, kids and canines dotting the fabric, reminding you that ambiance is more flavor than form. A testament to enduring English conviviality, The Crooked Billet emerges not perfect but beautifully compelling, where each visit offers yet another reason to return. — Clarissa Cuisinier