Meet Richard Farrugia, our store manager in the City of London. With a distinguished background in tailoring and menswear, Richard brings over five decades of experience to the role. His career has taken him through a series of renowned tailoring houses, including Gieves & Hawkes, Chester Barrie and Cremieux on The Savile Row. Richard’s extensive expertise positions him as a key figure in shaping and maintaining Oliver Brown’s identity.
While tailoring is his true passion, outside of work he lives a very vibrant life. Richard is a devoted football fanatic, having been a Chelsea fan his whole life, and an avid traveller with a particular fondness for culinary adventures. Venice holds a special place in his heart - his favourite destination, perhaps due to a touch of bias with his Italian heritage!
Here are some of his all-time favourite spots to visit in London, whether that be near his home in Fulham, or his workplace in the City of London, his choices all reflect an appreciation for the city’s culture and diverse cuisine.
The River Cafe
Image by The River Cafe
Richard’s top dining destination in London is the River Cafe in Hammersmith because it beautifully encapsulates his Italian heritage and love for Italian food. The menu features classic Italian ingredients that evoke his memories of Sicily. The cafe’s picturesque riverside scenery, combined with its convenient location being only a ten minute walk from his home make it the perfect spot to reconnect with good friends and family while enjoying delicious food. For Richard, the River Cafe is a comforting reminder of his roots and the flavours he grew up with.
Sukho
Image by Sukho
Sukho, a renowned Thai restaurant in the heart of Fulham is another one of Richard’s all time favourites. The authentic flavours and exquisite quality of food makes this a true neighbourhood gem, complimented by the consistently welcoming and attentive nature of the staff. Also just around the corner from his house, Sukho poses an incredibly convenient spot for Richard.
Crabtree
Image by Crabtree
The Crabtree, a gorgeous pub located on the most serene stretch of the Thames between the Hammersmith and Putney bridges is another one of Richard’s must-visit spots in London. Also offering stunning riverside views, its spacious outdoor seating makes it an ideal spot for enjoying sunny days and relaxing evenings. Besides its extensive selection of food and drink, it is home to an award-winning comedy club and live music, enhancing its electric feel.
Aragon House
Image by Aragon House
The Aragon House is formerly a place of residence to the first wife of Henry VIII, Catherine of Aragon, but now a stylish boutique hotel and restaurant tucked away in Parson’s Green, this is another spot that Richard truly cherishes. The restoration of the building has created a chic yet comfortable environment, offering a relaxing place to escape to after a long day. You can often find Richard enjoying a pint here in its grand pub garden, catching up with old friends and colleagues.
Away from home, and closer to his workplace in the City of London, some more of his favourites are;
The Maine
Image by The Maine
Nestled in the heart of Mayfair, this revived historical townhouse offers a lively and enchanting atmosphere with ‘the essence of a debauched cabaret club’, featuring live jazz and impromptu burlesque performances. This is a spot Richard frequently visits, with his favourite room in the three story complex being ‘The Tavern’, which beautifully blends the character of a traditional British pub with a Shaker-style Speakeasy bar - not to mention has a buzzing happy hour from 4-6 making it the perfect post work spot.
Dukes Bar
Image by Dukes Bar
Infamous for crafting London’s ‘best martini’, Dukes is an unmissable spot when visiting London in Farrugia’s books. It’s a tribute to timeless sophistication, with old portraits hanging on the walls, velvet armchairs and a wood-panelled bar in the corner. Alongside Richard, Dukes was also a personal favourite of James Bond author Ian Fleming adding to its allure and storied history.
34 Mayfair
Imagine by 34 Mayfair
Also located in Mayfair, 34 is the ultimate destination for a world-class steak. The restaurant’s open kitchen and striking marble-topped mirrored bar amplify its vibrant energy, alongside its elegant, enclosed terrace which entices passers-by - Richard often being one of them!
Roka
Imagine by Roka
A classic for a reason, Roka’s exceptional Japanese cuisine stands out to Farrugia as one of his most cherished spots in London. The restaurant’s focus on robatayaki - a method of cooking over an open flame - adds a unique dimension to each dish on the menu. He loves how he can sit and watch these incredibly skilled, award-winning chefs prepare succulent grilled meats and fresh seafood right in front of him.