This bar has now closed.
The Princess Victoria is a chic, cosy and ultimately traditional boozer located in Shepherd's Bush, with a decidedly delectable menu and an upmarket vibe, I had to try this gastro delight.
The Venue
The Princess Victoria is a rather regal looking pub indeed. By far one of the finest looking establishments on Uxbridge Road, the former gin palace, and original tram stop, has both kerb-side appeal and the goods to back it up inside. Stunning original Victorian features, a sumptuous feel and a cosy wintertime atmosphere, this is a luxe yet laid-back place to wile away a blustery afternoon or a frosty evening. Whimsical modern features sit nicely beside antique touches, with a splattering of rustic wine bar elements too - a mix of styles that manage to blend together immaculately. As well as the main pub, the venue also boasts a pretty beer garden, a dining room and a function space.
The dining room in The Princess Victoria offers a discerning spot for fine dining.
The Atmosphere and Clientele
We sat in the dining room for a weekend pub lunch but it felt more like we were tucked up in a country manor drawing room. From the impeccable service to the opulent surrounds, this place has a real touch of class. While it was quiet on arrival, the crowd in the bar built up while we were there, expect one or two couples but mainly groups of friends talking eagerly over plates or pints. This vibe of this Shepherd's Bush pub is a friendly one, and despite being in an unfamiliar neck of the woods (I'm more of an Eastender myself), I felt right at home among the chatty staff and vibrant punters.
The Princess Victoria offers everything from suppers and lunches to weddings and parties.
The Food and Drinks
If you're expecting tasty pub grub from the Princess Victoria, don't. The food here is so much better than that. We're talking fine dining. From foie gras terrine and charcuterie, to Yorkshire venison and Tamworth pork, the menu is a grand offering of British cuisine. We opted for a steak - expertly executed - and a nut roast - one of the finest I've sampled, with a pumpkin and sage dressing. While the food was a little higher priced than your average gastro pub fare, the quality and presentation more than matched the price. At the bar, a vast selection of wines is on offer as well as a massive stock of ales, beers and spirits.
The bar mixes traditional Victorian features and rustic wine bar style.
The Summary
This West London gem is a true delight, with its cool interiors, chic feel, impressive wine selection and irresistible eats, you get so much more than you'd expect from The Princess Victoria. If you find yourself hungry, thirsty, cold or curious in Shepherd's Bush, this traditional pub is well worth trying out.