I like to think I know my way around the hottest, most hyped bars and restaurants in London, but when tasked with hosting a soiree for the magazine industry's most acclaimed editors, I knew I had to step up my game.
Enter, NYX. The hidden gem in the heart of Mayfair is London’s newest and best-kept secret, and for good reason. A-listers such as Tom Cruise and Naomi Campbell, as well as fashion’s hottest designers, have been known to show their faces at the opulent and mysterious private lounge.
In London’s prime location, directly opposite The Ritz and tucked discreetly within Gaia, the acclaimed Greek restaurant, NYX makes its mark as a chic, invitation-only lounge inspired by its mythological namesake, the Greek Goddess of the Night. Greek-inspired restaurants and bars are having a moment in London, and NYX is up there with the best.
The greeting is seamless, service is carefully considered, everything you’d expect from a top tier members club in the heart of London. Once downstairs, we’re greeted warmly and led through a dark wooden door and thick burgundy curtains, to NYX. The interior is flamboyant but moody, dark but bright, shades of deep red, ethereal blues, and emerald tones envelope the space outlined with dark mahogany wood, completely different to the polished marble essence of Gaia upstairs.
My eyes are instantly drawn to the glowing red bar, with low velvet chairs and marble tables giving it a relaxed, sexy feel. There’s a lot going on, but it seems to blend together perfectly and tastefully. Every element—from the sumptuous fabrics to the carefully curated decor—contributes to an intimate environment that feels both luxurious and welcoming, the perfect retreat in the heart of London.
As the editors pour in and begin to mix and mingle, I overhear one of them complimenting the vibe and saying how chic the space is. Hearing that from somebody who’s invited to some of the most exclusive events at the chicest venues across the world shows how stand out this place is.
It feels.. Expensive. And that it is. If you’re looking for a cheap night out, NYX is not it, but a spenny, sophisticated, stylish one it is. An exclusive after-dark experience, where prices reflect the premium nature of the place. So if you’re willing to splash a little cash, and enjoy curated cocktails with top-shelf spirits and flavours you’ve never tasted before, you're in the right place.
Enveloped by the sounds of Molto Music, with Roger Goulart champagne on tap, and Wild idol for those committed to sober October (and beyond) like myself, we ease into the atmosphere. Non-drinkers aren’t catered to enough in London, so to see this being served on the night was a delight. The wonderful, attentive staff make sure the party guests' champagne glasses are never empty and as I saunter around the room to check in on everyone there’s nothing but laughs, smiles and good energy all around.
The lighting, sound, and crowd are carefully curated. I can’t quite put my finger on what it was, but it just had the right atmosphere… Let's call it a ‘Je se sais quoi’. The lounge is sophisticated, low-key, and seductive - DJ’s are kept under wraps for the element of surprise. The night begins slowly, signature cocktails are being served while creatives are meeting and mixing to laid-back beats of house and lounge. But as the night goes on, and the hours pass, DJ’s switch out and the vibe progresses to a party, gradually building into an electric, vibrant vibe, right through until the early hours to the sounds of Afro-House, Minimal Tech, and Tech-House. The vibe is sleek. To keep it that way, NYX operates by invitation-only - if you know, you know.
Don’t expect to waltz straight in there, the guest list is kept tight…but once you're in, that’s when the fun begins.
I can’t tell you everything, the rest you’ll have to find out for yourself..
To book, email: reservations@nyx-london.uk
