Bull, The – White City

The Bull is a big two-story gastropub located in the middle of the Southern Terrace of Westfield shopping centre. Both floors have independent bars, the downstairs one the more elaborate of the two. This is one of those places good for private or company parties, large family gatherings or even meetings which they have private rooms for. A short walk away from Shepherd’s Bush station, the Bull’s interior is a modern interpretation of the traditional British pub. It’s a familiar place, easy to get comfortable in. There is a terrace on the ground floor and a balcony higher up, nice for when the weather allows.

Head chef Tenzin and his team use British ingredients extensively throughout the menu, itself filled with British classics such as Fish & Chips, Sausage & Mash, Pies, etc. That said, we felt like returning our fish and chips and our beer battered onion rings as both were nightmarishly soggy. There was obviously something wrong with their fryer on the day we visited. One of the waitresses confirmed that we weren’t the only ones to experience this. If that really was the case, then I think it’s shameful that they continued to serve something knowing it was flawed. Thankfully, the burger was better.

To our surprise service was really good, friendly even. Coming from Dubai where service is everything, we have found restaurants in London, especially pubs, wanting in that department. This place was different, the blond bartender with a brown beard actually smiled at me once and opened a tab without asking for my credit card – wow! The rest of the staff were equally nice. I’d probably go back to The Bull for the ambiance and to have a drink but I don’t think I’d eat there again.

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Xerxes physically dines at, or orders from, each and every venue he reviews. He pays in full for whatever he and his companions eat, drink, take away or occasionally throw at each other. Xerxes accepts no money, gifts, discounts or free meals in return for reviews or favouritism. What you have read was NOT influenced in any way by the venue. Join me on Instagram @ravenousxerxes or email me on xerxes@dellara.com.