What can you tell us about Bush Hall Dining Rooms?
This recently opened restaurant is the latest addition to husband and wife team,Charlie and Emma Raworth’s growing West-London empire. Set on the site of an old greasy spoon, next to the famous live music venue of the same name, Bush Hall Dining Rooms has been described as a ‘true neighbourhood restaurant’.
Head chef Tim Tapper, previously of Annie’s in Chiswick, brings a no-gimmicks menu inspired by British classics with a few contemporary twists along the way. Be it ‘banquet’ style breakfasts, slap up Sunday roasts or hearty seasonal grub, they’ve got it covered.
Where is it?
Uxbridge Road, a mere stone throw from Shepherd's Bush Market station and a leisurely ten minute walk from the nearby Westfield shopping centre.
Who’s it recommended for?
With special kids and ‘pre-gig’ menus it’s an ideal spot for families with younger children and anyone looking to grab a quick bite to eat before heading to The Empire.
It’s also a perfect location for weary shoppers looking for a wholesome dinner away from the Westfield crowds. The private dining room would be a great space if you’re looking to celebrate too.
Where should I meet up for a drink before?
Bars are few and far between in this area of town but there’s a great pub nearby, the Defectors Weld. This award-winning gastropub has a vast selection of real ales, draught and bottled beers. Take advantage of their happy hour between 5-7pm over the weekends as cocktails are £9 for two – the whisky sours are a must!
Where should I sit?
The plush banquet style leather booths at the front of the restaurant are a good spot if you’re with a date or a small party. A larger group however would probably be most comfortable sat at a table at the back, in the downstairs dining room - it's louder and more spacious back there.
What should I eat?
The traditional menu is certain to conger up nostalgic memories with many familiar favourites available but has a few surprises thrown in. Shrimp cocktail is served with a Jack Daniels sauce (£8.50) and a soft-boiled duck egg is served with asparagus soldiers (£7.50). ‘Potted crab with toast’ (£7.50) arrived at the table on a rustic wood board and was presented in a robust glass jar. The combination of the soft homemade bread with the fresh crab made for a light and flavoursome first course. A half pot of juicy and plump ‘Bloody Mary mussels’ (£7.50) were coated in a deliciously tangy, spicy and sweet sauce that we soaked up with remaining crusty bread.
Main-courses all sounded tantalising but after long deliberation we opted for Ribeye, chip and béarnaise (£19.50) and Pork 3 ways with crackling & crab apple (£15). The latter was by far the stand-out dish, crispy belly, crunchy crackling and a cinnamon-apple dip - it was a showstopper. Steak, although cooked well, was a little on the tough side and chips and tomato and onion salad provided suitable accompaniments to both. We couldn’t help but notice several fellow diners ordering the ‘fish stew with saffron aioli’ (£15) which smelled and looked fantastic.
Finally we managed to save (just about!) enough room for dessert. The chocolate donuts with rum custard were perfectly soft inside and the custard was luxuriously thick and silky – one to avoid if you’re watching your waistline. The retro ‘Eton mess’ was equally indulgent and arrived piled high with whipped cream and topped with a cherry. Be warned: the portions are big so come hungry.
What about drinks?
The wine list is large and varied with lots to choose from. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice, the staff were very helpful in guiding us to options that matched our food choices. A chilled Pinot Noir (£7.50) complemented the steak beautifully and was a perfect tipple for a hot and sticky evening. The cocktail menu although succinct was executed and provided some welcome delights, the opulent aperitif ‘Twinkle’ (£8) with champagne and elderflower was a favourite.
Overall thoughts?
Whether you’re with a date, your family or a big group of mates Bush Hall Dining Rooms is the kind of place that suits all. Its welcoming atmosphere combined with stylish, parlour-esque décor allowed for a cool, laid-back vibe. Attentive but not overbearing staff added another pleasant touch to the evening. The seasonally changing menu filled with adult comfort food was warming and soulful – just as proper British grub should be. We couldn’t recommend it more.
So next time you find yourself in Shepherd's Bush,why not venture a little further afield down Uxbridge road and experience this diamond in the rough for yourself. Trust us, it’ll be worth it.
Bush Hall Dining Rooms is at 304 Uxbridge Road, London W12 7LJ. Find out more about Bush Hall Dining Rooms
Read more from Addyson at her fashionforfood blog.
Prices were correct at time of writing. Hot Dinners were invited to eat at Bush Hall Dining Rooms.
