Hi gang,
Despite the Financial Times once calling Shepherd’s Bush ‘a dystopian vision of kebab shops’, I would like to submit the argument that the ratio of greasy food outlets to cool hangouts is actually changing for the better. Here are my top places for a tipple in Shepherd’s Bush and White City.
Princess Victoria
An upscale pub with lovely decor and a cosy feel. I brought my friends here for my birthday and we enjoyed pizzas accompanied by bottomless Prosecco for two hours. A winning combo! And I’ve also heard they serve a mean Sunday roast.
The Queen Adelaide
Another one of Shepherd’s Bush’s finer boozers. It has a cosy, old-pub vibe and there’s a pub grub menu that’s ideal for a weekend visit. Don’t expect anything too fancy on the drinks menu, but you can be sure to have a lovely glass of wine accompanied by the most wonderful atmosphere.
The Allis
White City House may be an exclusive members’ club, however there are certain parts that are open to the public. The Allis is a dimly-lit hangout full of trainer-wearing media types (I can say that, because I’m totally one of them!). It’s a really cool place to come for after-work drinks and I think their electric cinema would be perfect for a date night.
All Star Lanes
When you think of a bowling alley you would be excused for thinking of crazy patterned carpets, old-fashioned fruit machines and the din of a 100 children. However, All Star Lanes is exactly how a bowling alley should be – low lights, fun soundtrack and a cocktail list worth exploring. Even if you’re not bowling, you can totally hangout for a drink or dinner – and there are also two karaoke rooms should the cocktails go down all too well!
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Bluebird Cafe
I have to admit, I have not been here for a cheeky cocktail, but if their winning brunch menu is anything to go by, then I’m sure it’s lovely. What enticed me into this establishment was the Insta-worthy interiors (complete with hanging birdcage chairs). So a beautiful backdrop is guaranteed and if the drinks don’t live up, The Allis is literally a few doors away.
Puttshack
Now, I’ve already written a blog post about how much I’ve enjoyed my visits to Puttshack, but I couldn’t make a round up about cool places to have a bevvy near where I live and not include this one. Head here before hopping on the central line into town – it’s the perfect place for pre-drinks.
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Cabana
Their Basilian cuisine is 100% worth a try, but even if you’re only in the market for a cocktail or two, swing by Cabana in Westfield and you won’t be disappointed. The decor is made for Insta which is of course a big tick in by book. But want to know what’s even better? Their happy hour never ends. Get two for £10 cocktails. Every. Single. Day.
The Mind Palace
If anyone has ever been to the West12 shopping centre, you’ll know it’s not much of a hangout and you are probably wondering why I’m even mentioning it. With a Savers, Poundland and Lidl, it’s not the usual place you would expect to find a swanky cocktail bar, but hidden behind a facade of an opticians you will discover a Sherlock Holmes-themed bar with magical cocktails and fun games.
Defector’s Weld
A pretty normal London boozer with a good selection of drinks, but what’s special about this place is the atmosphere is always good with a bustling bar and there’s a selection of board games on offer so you can have hours of fun!
I hope you’ve enjoyed this round-up of West London hangouts. Let me know if you pay any of them a visit.
R x
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