StyleNest popped along to the new West London restaurant that’s been causing quite a stir in the Capital of late, Bush Hall Dining Rooms.
In the last few months we’ve seen a plethora of restaurants opening up around the Captial, including the greatly anticipated Hutong, Oblix, Peasan and Balthazar. But who’d have thought that the most recent opening and the restaurant winning itself hoards of fans and rave reviews would lay in the heart of Shepherd’s Bush? It’s true, Bush Hall Dining Rooms has been the surprise foodie launch of the summer and has already won itself a fan base that includes food journalists (Grace Dent included), celebs and locals alike.
Relaxed and informal, with a lively and friendly atompshere, Bush Hall Dining Rooms is a neighbourhood restaurant that offers modern, no frills British dining.
Inspired by its Edwardian next-door neighbour – live music venue Bush Hall – Bush Hall Dining Rooms takes its cue from the charm and poise of a traditional dining room, but importantly without the hushed tones or stiff atmosphere.
The décor is faultless, slightly worn tan leather banquettes, original wood panelling, exposed pipes and chequered flooring add charm and character. In fact, it feels like a restaurant that has been around for years – it feels lived in. Something many newly open spots certainly don’t achieve.
The menu has that same comforting and homely quality. Whilst the staff are friendly, the ambience is buzzing and it’s the classic dishes with a modern twist on offer that is the key to its success.
We began our evening with one of the house cocktails, The Twinkle – Elderflower with champagne and vodka. Delicate and feminine yet with a real kick. The perfect aperitif.
To accompany our drinks our charming waitress Lesley recommended the ham and cheese croquettes. Crispy on the outside and delightfully fluffy inside they were some of the best Croquettes we have tasted outside of Spain.
Highlights of the menu included Pork Cooked 3 Ways, Bloody Mary Mussels and a hearty fish stew with Aioli. However the winning dishes for us were the Dippy Duck Egg With Asparagus Soldiers and the Rack Of Lamb with a Pistachio Crust, both of which were recommended to us by yet another of Bush Hall’s friendly waitresses, Jane (it really is the type of restaurant where you will get chatting to both staff and fellow diners). Both dishes were simple but beautifully presented – and had a refreshingly modern take on two classic dishes.
Bush Hall Dining Rooms is not only a great spot for dinner but is a great place for brunch with family, a quiet coffee and slice of cake with friends or a classic Sunday roast with the papers.
If you don’t live west, or indeed don’t live in London then make sure you put Bush Dining Rooms down on your list for your next visit. West Londoners? There’s no excuse – book a table now.
Bush Hall Dining offers no nonsense, hearty cooking in a great setting. StyleNest will most certainly be visiting again.
For more information and to book your table Bushhalldining.co.uk.