or anyone who has Rixo The clothes hanging in their wardrobe — and at this point, there must be quite a few millennial women in London — it wouldn’t be surprising that the brand’s founders, Henrietta Rex and Orlag McCluskey, have an authority on good taste. After all, you’re not creating a fashion brand that goes from zero to answering everything wedding guest Dilemma in six years without dealing with what’s hot.
Who better then to give us the inside scoop on West London’s coolest new hotspots and old favorites? Having founded Rixo out of their student apartment in West Kensington in 2015, and now living in Chiswick and Acton, with the HQ brand still nearby, Henrietta Rix gives us an insider’s guide to the gleaming area of London.
Hidden Secret: Wild Bunch, Chiswick
Henrietta says: She does the coolest juices and coffees. I recommend Everyday Green and the acai bowl if you are hungry.
we say: You may have missed the Pret during lockdown but now that you’re back in the office, the return of the ham and cheese croissant is likely to ruin your waistline. Step into Wild Bunch, Chiswick’s neighborhood café and juice bar determined to get your day off to a good start. The entire menu, from the smoothest green smoothies and vegan smoothies to high-protein breakfast dishes, can be pre-ordered and picked up on your way to work. So really, there are no excuses.
Visit wildbunchjuicery.co.uk
Restaurant: Layla, Ladbroke Grove
Henrietta says: By day, Lily’s is a delicious artisan bakery, and by evening, it runs a variety of intimate dinner clubs with guest chefs. They also have pizza nights with organic wine (less hangover!) which is a lot of fun.
we say: Taking a more mindful approach to everyday baking, Laila’s skilled bakers work using ancient techniques, wild grains and seasonal produce to create exceptional loaves, sandwiches and pastries. The regular dinner clubs are also not to be missed. Often featuring the work of up-and-coming London chefs, expect anything from a journey through the culinary traditions of China to sustainable menus created with local ingredients.
Visit Laylabakery.com
Salon: Meraki Nail & Make-up Studio, Chiswick
Henrietta says: They do the best manicures and pedicures I’ve ever had!
we say: traditional beauty salon Literally, Meraki resisted the urge to diversify into spa treatments, focusing instead on what he does best: a truly gorgeous manicure. Head out for a lunchtime refreshment or indulge in a full Meraki treatment, complete with hand scrub, paraffin wax and massage. Pedicures, waxing, and eyelash coloring are also available, while a team of professional MUAs are also on hand to help you get ready for big events and special date nights.
Visit meraki-nailstudio.com
Market: Chiswick High Road Antique Gallery
Henrietta says: This is an outdoor antique market that operates once a month. When I go, I always find such wonderful things, my house is full of treasures I got there.
we say: Heal’s is gorgeous and we’d never forget the comfort of the Amara but for truly interesting and unique interior design finds, London’s Market Network is the place to turn. Chiswick High Road’s Antiques and Antiques Market brings together over 60 antiques and antiques dealers on a Sunday each month and promises an eclectic range of art, furniture, home accessories, and ephemera from a wide range of periods.
Visit chiswickhighroadantiquesandvintagemarket.com
Bar: White City House Rooftop
Henrietta says: There’s nothing quite like sitting around the pool at the White City House when the sun is shining – you feel like you’re on vacation and have a great atmosphere, especially on the weekends.
we say: We don’t need to introduce you to White City House – you’re probably already well acquainted with Soho House The outpost located inside the former BBC Television Centre. The members-only space is home to hotel rooms, a state-of-the-art health club, cinema, event spaces, and three restaurants, plus the aforementioned pool. Arrive early to secure a sunbed.
Visit sohohouse.com
Hotel: Princess Royal, Notting Hill
Henrietta says: The pub-cum hotel just opened and we worked with them on the Icons of Rixo trip. The space was so amazing I was desperate to go and stay there by myself.
we say: Owned and operated by Cubitt House, Thomas Cubitt Suppliers in Belgravia, The Grazing Goat in Marylebone, and The Alfred Tennyson in Knightsbridge, among others, this brand new all-day pub and hotel in Notting Hill He speaks for himself. Dine on dishes of Cornish lobster, English burrata and an old-fashioned pork chop before heading upstairs to discover comfortable bedrooms decorated with exquisite interior design.
Visit cubitthouse.co.uk
Culture: Victoria and Albert Gardens and Kew
Henrietta says: A MUST HAVE V&A: If you’re coming to London, this is a must. There are also Kew Gardens, which is needless to say about them either. It’s an excellent idea for a day outside, obviously beautiful during the summer but also nice in the winter, especially at Christmas time.
we say: Londoners are at a loss when it comes to satisfying our cultural cravings but don’t be afraid to head further afield in search of something truly inspiring. Tucked away at the end of the Overground, Kew Gardens may seem very far away, but the 500 acres of botanical gardens, greenhouses, woodlands, and lakes are pure bliss on a warm day. Of course, if you really can’t head further west than South Kensington, there’s always something great to see at the V&A too.
Visit vam.ac.uk And kew.org
Read more: Roxanne First’s guide to Notting Hill
