What
Part of a small group that also includes The Lighterman in King's Cross and Boxcar in Marylebone, The Broadcaster is aimed squarely at a stylish, fun crowd who want to go out for a relaxing meal. It's family-friendly, with a great kids' menu, and is one of those pleasing spots that is equally likely to lure people who have just been at the football (QPR's stadium is just around the corner, making this busy on match days) for a pint as people who want to come in for a full sit-down meal. And, on sunny evenings, the top floor rooftop bar is a real delight, too, although be warned: alongside the panoramic views, the DJ-curated sound system is designed for people in the mood to drink cocktails and party rather than have a sedate meal.
Where
Though it sits in the shadow of Westfield, The Broadcaster manages to avoid the clone restaurant feel of the eateries there by firmly having its own identity. It's also superbly located from a public transport perspective – literally opposite Wood Lane tube station – and set right alongside the much-missed main BBC building, which is still functioning as a studio; when we left one Saturday evening, guests were turning up for the recording of Saturday Night Live, which only adds to the happening vibe.
To Start
There's a nicely put together range of bar snacks that show real care and attention to detail. A black pudding sausage roll is a nice twist on a pub classic, as are vegetable crisps. Yet there's also some ambition in the kitchen, too, and you can see this from the house bread, which comes complete with delicious whipped black garlic and walnut butter, which was demolished in moments.
The Main Event
The abiding features of the main courses are generosity in portion size and innovation in flavour. The Caesar salad, for instance, is a far cry from measly assembly of a few scraps of chicken and croutons with a limp lettuce and smothered in thick dressing that you get in a lot of establishments. Instead, it came as an assortment of bacon, avocado, chicken and even apple, making it more like a cross between a Caesar and a cobb. It's delicious, as is the ham, egg and chips, in which a thick and beautifully seasoned slice of ham hock comes with a fried egg quivering atop it, complete with triple-cooked chips and a moreish mustard hollandaise. And the kids' fish and chips is excellent, too, with a big helping of superb cod, chips, peas and all the works. Not, of course, that we got to try any of it.
To Finish
You're likely to be fairly full after the mains so a pudding between two to share is more than enough, and a very fine rhubarb trifle makes the perfect finish; sweet, yes, but with a tartness from the rhubarb being enough to cut through the cream and custard. And the selection of ice cream for children – chocolate and mango sorbet on our visit – is enough to satisfy even the fussiest eater.
To Drink
There's a nice selection of wines and champagnes for everyone from big spenders to the more conservatively inclined. Glasses of west London favourites such as Picpoul and Primitivo are very drinkable rather than blow-your-socks-off amazing, but they're at the lower end of the price list; should you wish to splurge, there are Poilly-Fuissés and Pomerols at well over the hundred mark. Cocktails are distinctive, and we were tempted by the 'Al Fonzo' – vodka, spiced mango, cloudy lemon – but in the end a couple of espresso martinis proved a fitting end to a buzzy meal.
Bonus Fun
On the second floor, there's a fun retro photobooth that enables you to take four suitably silly pictures with your family or friends for a fiver; well worth it after a couple of cocktails.
How Much
A family dining here could probably get out for about £120 or so, although if you drink more and opt for the steaks it'll be considerably pricier. But it's still decent value compared to a lot of far less distinctive and enjoyable places nearby – and it makes for a fun, lively experience where the food really is top notch.
By Alexander Larman
FAQs: The Broadcaster
Where is The Broadcaster in London?
The Broadcaster is located in White City, west London, directly opposite Wood Lane tube station and beside the former BBC Television Centre building.
Does The Broadcaster have a rooftop bar?
Yes. The top-floor rooftop terrace is one of its biggest draws, with panoramic west London views, cocktails and DJs creating a lively evening atmosphere.
Is The Broadcaster family-friendly?
Very much so. There is a dedicated children's menu, generous portions and a relaxed atmosphere that works well for families earlier in the day.
What kind of food does The Broadcaster serve?
The menu mixes elevated gastropub classics with more inventive dishes, including black pudding sausage rolls, ham hock with mustard hollandaise, generous salads and seasonal puddings.
How expensive is The Broadcaster?
For White City, it offers relatively good value. A family meal with drinks is likely to cost around £120, though steaks, cocktails and premium wines will push the bill higher.
