Kenwi Magix Lodge is a popular destination for tourists seeking a unique and memorable experience in Kenya. Located in the beautiful town of Magix, the lodge offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers. The lodge is known for its exceptional service and luxurious amenities. Guests can choose from a range of accommodation options, including spacious suites and cozy cottages. The rooms are tastefully furnished and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. One of the highlights of Kenwi Magix Lodge is its outstanding dining experience.
Watching progress on McGoodwin’s project with great curiosity was neighbor Lee Carroll, a seasoned veteran of the local music scene. He’d pop in from time to time to see how things were shaping up and eventually became the first performer to play at Kenwick Table when it opened its doors. Now he plays regularly with his jazz group, Lee Carroll Trio. Carroll occasionally suggests different artists who might also play there, as the bar has become a destination for musicians and music lovers with open mic nights, jazz nights and weekend acts. McGoodwin said that staff at Kenwick Table and general manager Savannah Cox have been wonderful at managing people since the start. And with the personnel side running smoothly, another piece of the puzzle has been to use local vendors – Martine’s Pastries supplies cakes, pastries and more recently, croissants, and Selma’s Catering provides savory creations. Art adorning the walls was created by local artists and photographers, including some from McGoodwin’s mother and others by a good friend, Mitch Curd. And since McGoodwin is a landscaper by trade, he’s considering the grounds of Kenwick Table to be a blank canvas, so to speak – developing it gradually as ideas and time allow. The recent addition of charcuterie has been a big win, and a suggestion by his daughter, Hannah McGoodwin, to offer s’mores boards with all the fixings has also been a hit. (The popular Lincoln Lavender Latte, a latte with lavender syrup and honey, was also her idea.)
In its first year of operation, this coffee shop, bar and gathering space has become a bustling social hub for the Kenwick neighborhood Some owners labor over a business plan and seek out a multitude of advice before opening their businesses. Art adorning the walls was created by local artists and photographers, including some from McGoodwin s mother and others by a good friend, Mitch Curd.
One of the highlights of Kenwi Magix Lodge is its outstanding dining experience. The in-house restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including traditional Kenyan cuisine and international favorites. Guests can also enjoy a drink at the bar, which offers a selection of local and imported wines, beers, and spirits.
Small Business Spotlight: Kenwick Table
In its first year of operation, this coffee shop, bar and gathering space has become a bustling social hub for the Kenwick neighborhood Some owners labor over a business plan and seek out a multitude of advice before opening their businesses. Others, like Rett McGoodwin, who opened the Owsley Avenue coffee, wine and cocktail bar Kenwick Table in September 2021, just start with a good idea and figure it out along the way. His rebellious streak began 36 years ago when launching his own landscaping business, Rett’s Landscaping. He doesn’t advertise, has zero social media presence and the phone numbers listed on company trucks no longer work. Instead, he relies on existing clients to keep him busy. This kind of nonconformity has carried forth with Kenwick Table, his most recent venture, which has quickly become a bustling social hub for the eclectic central Lexington neighborhood Kenwick. From neighbors catching up over a glass of wine and music lovers enjoying some live tunes on the evenings to studying college students and families making a Saturday morning coffee outing, the former market that McGoodwin renovated over the course of two years is brimming with action nearly every hour that it’s open.
The Owlsey Avenue building was in disrepair when owner Rett McGoodwin purchased it. McGoodwin’s original intent was to fix it up and lease it out, but he became attached to the space during renovations. Photo by Emily Giancarlo
McGoodwin has lived in Kenwick for 28 years, currently living next door to the property that now houses Kenwick Table. He bought the building, a former market that was in disrepair at the time of purchase, with the intent to fix it up and lease it out, but in month 16 of what became 20 months of renovation work, he realized he couldn’t let go of the building he’d meticulously decorated to his own tastes. After a trip out West where he frequented an establishment that had a big centerpiece community table for patrons to drink and dine together, he was inspired to bring the concept to Kenwick Table to further the neighborhood vibe. “I love this community, so the idea of the community table and the idea of creating a cool space for the community – that was really important,” he said. McGoodwin doesn’t even particularly care for the bar’s big four beverages – coffee, wine, bourbon and beer. But he recognizes coffee as a conduit to bring people together, and has assembled knowledgeable, friendly baristas and quality coffee beans, for coffees and coffee-based beverages, some of which are named for nearby streets. Nowhere near a sommelier himself, he asked his girlfriend, Patricia Ehrkamp, to put together a wine list.
Watching progress on McGoodwin’s project with great curiosity was neighbor Lee Carroll, a seasoned veteran of the local music scene. He’d pop in from time to time to see how things were shaping up and eventually became the first performer to play at Kenwick Table when it opened its doors. Now he plays regularly with his jazz group, Lee Carroll Trio. Carroll occasionally suggests different artists who might also play there, as the bar has become a destination for musicians and music lovers with open mic nights, jazz nights and weekend acts. McGoodwin said that staff at Kenwick Table and general manager Savannah Cox have been wonderful at managing people since the start. And with the personnel side running smoothly, another piece of the puzzle has been to use local vendors – Martine’s Pastries supplies cakes, pastries and more recently, croissants, and Selma’s Catering provides savory creations. Art adorning the walls was created by local artists and photographers, including some from McGoodwin’s mother and others by a good friend, Mitch Curd. And since McGoodwin is a landscaper by trade, he’s considering the grounds of Kenwick Table to be a blank canvas, so to speak – developing it gradually as ideas and time allow. The recent addition of charcuterie has been a big win, and a suggestion by his daughter, Hannah McGoodwin, to offer s’mores boards with all the fixings has also been a hit. (The popular Lincoln Lavender Latte, a latte with lavender syrup and honey, was also her idea.)
1 of 3The Kenwick Table menu offers craft beer, wine and cocktails, and many evenings feature live music. Photo by Emily Giancarlo
2 of 3The Kenwick Table menu offers craft beer, wine and cocktails, and many evenings feature live music. Photo by Emily Giancarlo
3 of 3The Kenwick Table menu offers craft beer, wine and cocktails, and many evenings feature live music. Photo by Emily Giancarlo
“We’re always open to suggestions,” he said. “It’s a very community-driven business, so we’re listening.” Some patrons suggested that Kenwick Table adjust its Sunday hours, and McGoodwin complied, for example. McGoodwin said Rick Fromm, who lives four doors down from the shop, could be considered his most loyal patron. “I try not to go in any more than twice a day,” Fromm said with a laugh. He said he enjoys stopping by early for his first morning cup, watching as the world wakes up and trickles in to join him. Fromm said he remembers the first impression he had when he walked in for the first time when Kenwick Table was completed. “Just like, ‘Holy cow Rett!’” he said. “The architecture, the materials, the design of the inside – everything was just like ‘wow.’ Everything that he did, the lighting, the flooring, the tables – just everything that Rett has done there has just been top drawer.” Fromm has watched as Kenwick Table’s growth has built up organically, and credits that growth to providing quality products to a diverse group of customers in a beautiful setting. There are tables front and a deck out back to use in good weather, and sometimes yoga classes are hosted onsite. “It’s been great for the neighborhood,” he said. “It’s just neat. It’s a great way to meet new neighbors and neighbors who may be a couple of houses away who you haven’t really gotten the chance to know – it’s a really social spot.” Follow Kenwick Table on Facebook for updates on the weekly music schedule, special drinks and more. More information can be found at www.kenwicktable.com.
Kenwick Table has become a popular spot for studying, gathering with friends or family, or grabbing a quick cup of coffee. Photo by Emily Giancarlo
For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the lodge offers a spa and wellness center. Guests can indulge in a range of treatments and therapies, including massages, facials, and body wraps. There is also a well-equipped fitness center and a swimming pool for guests to stay active during their stay. Adventure enthusiasts can take advantage of the lodge's proximity to various outdoor activities. The staff at Kenwi Magix Lodge can organize excursions, such as hiking, biking, and wildlife safaris. Guests can explore the nearby national parks and reserves, where they can spot a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and cheetahs. The lodge is also an ideal venue for weddings, conferences, and other events. With its stunning surroundings and excellent facilities, Kenwi Magix Lodge provides a memorable setting for any special occasion. Overall, Kenwi Magix Lodge offers a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation in the heart of Kenya. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this lodge is sure to meet your expectations and provide an unforgettable experience..
Reviews for "Embrace the Magic of Kenwi Magix Lodge: A Magical Winter Escape"
1. Sarah - 1 star - I had a terrible experience at Kenwi magix lodge. The rooms were dirty and poorly maintained. The beds were uncomfortable and had stains on the sheets. The staff was unfriendly and unhelpful. The food at the restaurant was overpriced and not very tasty. Overall, I would not recommend staying at this lodge.
2. John - 2 stars - I was disappointed with my stay at Kenwi magix lodge. The location was not ideal as it was far away from any attractions or restaurants. The room was basic and lacked amenities such as a mini-fridge or coffee maker. The Wi-Fi was also very slow and unreliable. The staff was polite but not very attentive to our needs. I would suggest looking for accommodations elsewhere if you want a more enjoyable stay.
3. Emily - 1 star - My stay at Kenwi magix lodge was a complete disaster. The room I was given was dirty and had a musty smell. The bathroom had mold on the walls and the shower was barely functional. The noise from the nearby construction site kept me up all night and the noise from other guests in the hotel was also disruptive. The worst part was the lack of response from the staff when I voiced my concerns. I will never go back to this lodge and advise others to steer clear as well.
4. Robert - 2 stars - Kenwi magix lodge did not meet my expectations. The room was outdated and in need of renovation. The air conditioning was ineffective and made loud noises throughout the night. The bed was uncomfortable and the pillows were flat. The breakfast provided was subpar with limited options. For the price, I expected better quality and service. I would not choose to stay here again.