Charlotte's W5 has officially opened

It's been a long time coming - but was it worth the wait?

I'd say yes, and yes again. For the last two weeks, Charlotte's W5 has been open - but not officially. This 'soft' opening was to enable staff to sort out any glitches before Friday 12th, the big day.

Owner, Alex Wrethman, is keen to point out that Charlotte's W5 is not a restaurant in the ordinary sense and describes his new baby, as 'the third place'.

The company blurb explains the concept: ' You’ve got home, you’ve got the office, this is your ‘third place’ for work, play and everything in between.'

So what's it actually like?

First point to make is that it's currently a bit of a hidden gem. Tucked in at the back of the Town Hall in Dickens Yard, means there won't be much general footfall. Customers will need to have heard about and actively seek out Charlotte's W5, but I don't think that will be a problem soon.

Once you find it though you will marvel. From the outside it's an absolutely stunning building, one that wouldn't look amiss in the country. Inside it's got a rustic warehouse, almost unfinished, feel to it. There are plenty of seats and tables and, most importantly, power sockets available for each table. This is key to what Charlotte's W5 is aspiring to be; a place where you can sit and work and just have a coffee. Alex is very keen to stress you do NOT have to order food.

But, naturally coming from the same stable as Charlotte's Place and Charlotte's W4, you'd have high expectations of the food and it'd be a shame not to try something.

The menu is pretty large but as a non-meat eater I initially found it a bit too meaty, offerings included ham, pork, lamb, wood pigeon, and rabbit. I mentioned this to Alex but he pointed out at least 5 dishes vegetarian dishes, I suggested they should be highlighted as they weren't immediately obvious on the busy menu; the traditional V sign next to the description would help.

You can have taster size dishes (prices starting from £3) small plates (£8) or large ones (the most expensive offering currently is the sea bream at £17).

All three were really delicious, and more than enough for a light brunch.

My partner, who has a larger appertite, opted for the Fried Duck Egg with Wild Mushrooms, Cheese on Toast and Truffle. Whilst he thoroughly enjoyed it he had a quibble over the amount on the plate and said he didn't think it was substantial enough to merit the £8 cost.

However, I'd say generally the prices aren't excessive, and for a relaxing environment in which you can work, or meet after work they are pitched just about right.

Charlotte's W5 is overall a very classy addition to Ealing and one we've been waiting for a very long time. I haven't tried the extensive drinks menu yet, it won't be long.

Stop Press: Returned to Charlotte's W5 for drinks with pals last night and am pleased to report more good things. The atmosphere was really chilled, the staff extremely helpful and friendly, and the delicious cocktails came in decent size glasses (maybe they could reduce the volume of ice cubes to leave more space for the alcohol though - just a thought!) I hope they introduce 2-4-1 cocktail nights... I imagine they would prove extremely popular!

One thing to note, Charlotte's W5 does not take cash - so payment is by card only. Be prepared.

For some it might initially be a difficult concept to grasp; a restaurant place that isn't really a restaurant, but Charlotte's W5 offers a whole lot more and I think we're really lucky to have it in Ealing.

I reckon this 'Third place' may rapidly become my new home!

I wish Alex and all at Charlotte's W5 lots of success.

Annemarie Flanagan

February 18th 2016