The original social network has always been around the dinner table. Long before the internet, long before the concept of ‘networking’, hell, long before conversation was even invented, people sat around eating. Food brings people together like nothing else, and that’s a (unverified) fact.
With platforms such as VizEat and EatWith bringing people together around the table, the possibility for social interaction over food just got a whole lot more interesting. Whether it’s experiencing traditional Cameroonian cooking in the heart of Brixton with Carine, or a Daal that Dishoom could only dream of with Ash & Devina, ‘social dining’ is looking set to take over the capital anytime soon. So, here are 5 IDEAL social foodie experiences in London for you to sink your teeth into.
Sushi Masterclass
To some, sushi can be a daunting cuisine to eat, let alone make with your own bare hands. Chefs have spent years (even decades) learning the meticulous methods behind the ancient Japanese craft; you can’t just stride into a sushi kitchen, pick up a blunt blade and turn out perfection. Sozai Cooking School, located in Aldgate, is here to guide you through the basics. Hosted by expert chef Yuka Caves, whose wealth of experience spans both Japan and London, you’ll learn how to make dishes like Hoso-maki Ura-maki, Temari-sushi and Futo-maki. Caves will show you how to prepare the popular vinegared rice, and offer a history of the ingredients, as well as insights into Japanese culture.
Cheeses from Europe
Who would have guessed that something as simple as coagulated milk would be so loved and revered by so many people and cultures across the world? Just in time for Christmas, Studio 338 will be hosting a cheese love-in to rival all others. It’s called The Giant Cheese Board and boasts unlimited free cheese of all varieties, alongside mulled wine to wash it down with. If that doesn’t have you sold, then we’re sure the pièce de résistance, a giant baked Camembert, will have your mouth watering.
Be The Star Of Your Own Great British Bake Off
One of the most popular television competitions of recent years has come to our doorsteps in the form of The Big London Bake. Grab a buddy, a date or your mum and compete with up to nine other teams to be crowned champion of the bake. With recipes changing every month, you can create everything from the classic Victoria Sponge to the gooey Chocolate gateau. Just like the show, creativity is key and the on-hand professional bakers will be there to make sure you do the best job you can.
Indian Food Tour
As we all know, the UK has a large and vibrant Indian food scene, with London the epicentre of some of the best cooking you can find outside of the subcontinent. With Brick Lane being one of the most iconic locations in the UK for an array of Indian cuisine, Eating London Tours brings you Flavours of India & Beyond; a chance to learn the history of Britain’s love affair with Indian food. During the two and a half hour tour you’ll immersive yourself in local curry houses, pop into the authentic local shops and finish by tucking into the typical sweet treats from the neighbourhood food stalls.
Bottomless Caribbean Brunch
Bottomless brunches have become an institution in London, with most restaurants serving up one or two courses, paired with a near endless supply of Bloody Marys, Prosecco or Bellinis. Reggae Brunch does things a little differently, offering generous glasses of belly-warming rum punch and healthy portions of jerked lamb chops, rice ‘n’ peas, coleslaw, mixed salad and dumplings. While you’re indulging in these treats, you’ll be serenaded with reggae, soca, calypso, reggaeton and much more to get you in the Caribbean spirit.
