There’s nothing sleepy about buzzing Shepherd’s Bush – and yet, you’ll feel so pleasantly ensconced in the plush retro world of The Hoxton that you’re bound to get a good night’s rest here. It’s the first west London branch of the super-successful boutique chain, and impressively, it has a design sensibility that feels all its own, with flourishes that nod to the neighbourhood’s history and culture.
Take, for example, the lobby; a retro-lover’s dream with an earthy wooden front desk offset by colourful mid-century armchairs and loud custom rugs by west London makers Holmes Bespoke. Everywhere you look there are soft textures and curved lines. The rooms feature dramatic wavy headboards by Bute, and warm rattan lampshades play off copper fixtures. If the rooms feel a touch on the small side, then that might be a sign to spend more times in other parts of the hotel – namely, the restaurant.
Honestly, it’s worth staying here for the restaurant alone. Chet’s is Thai food like you’ve never tried it, by cult Los Angeles chef Kris Yenbamroong. Here, fiery Thai flavours meet Californian flavours and flair. The Hoxton deserves London’s love simply for bringing Chet’s across the pond; and you deserve to order the signature fried pineapple rice, served with crab inside half a pineapple. Oh, and the sticky wings of course. The restaurant is also the most beautiful space in the hotel, too, elevating a ’60s American diner with soft pastels and a Wes Anderson-esque attention to symmetry.
Neighbourhood
Wedged on the corner of Shepherd’s Bush Green, conveniently located between two Tube stations and an Overground, The Hoxton is an ideal base for exploring west London. You’ve got Shepherd’s Bush Market on your doorstep, and you’re also a short walk from Portobello Road Market and Notting Hill for even more shopping opportunities. Jump on a bus or Tube and you’ll soon find yourself strolling through Hyde Park or exploring South Kensington’s world-famous museums.
Nearby
1. The Bush Theatre is one of London’s finest independent theatres, with a programme reflecting the diversity of the area.
2. Bush Hall is a beautiful grassroots music venue, lovingly restored to its former Edwardian grandeur
3. Next Door Records is a go-to spot for music-lovers, with vinyl on sale and DJs spinning tunes by night, with a bar championing natural wines.
Time Out tip:
Did we mention we’re obsessed with Chet’s? The restaurant isn’t just open for dinner. Stick around in the morning for brunch, where you’ll find surprising California-Thai hybrid dishes like chicken and roti waffles, or a Thai omelette with enoki mushrooms.