When we go out for dinner or drinks, we tend to see it as a bit of a treat. We’re splashing a few extra pounds, consuming a few extra calories, knocking back a few more units of alcohol… But eating out in London doesn’t need to be entirely guilt-ridden. Make a trip to any of these places and you’ll feel that your money has been particularly well spent.
1. The Clink, Brixton
[The Clink]The Clink Charity offer a different approach to prisoner rehabilitation. With an aim to reduce reoffending prisoners, The Clink set up a training scheme in which ex-offenders can develop their skills and improve their employability within the hospitality sector. There are numerous restaurants set up across the country, but the one based in Brixton is located within a category C prison, offering a unique dining experience. The seasonal menu is pretty extensive, as they try and fill it with a variety of skills for the trainees to learn! Definitely somewhere worth giving a go, but you’d need to book in advance.
2. Waterhouse, Shoreditch
[Waterhouse]
Waterhouse, owned by Shoreditch Trust, aims to support socially and economically disadvantaged people by helping them gain the knowledge skills and opportunities that will enable them to live more fulfilling lives. The atmosphere is vibrant and the staff are always friendly. They use the freshest ingredients, all locally sourced and the menu is deliciously varied. This winter, we’d recommend either their warming curried lentil dishes or their homely portions of moussaka. They also have a selection of meats served on a grill. It’s a great place to gather some friends, get in a bottle of wine and relax.
3. Hawksmoor, Various
[Londonist]Not only do Hawksmoor make sure their steak is responsibly and sustainably sourced, they also do their bit for various charities, including Action Against Hunger and One Water. They may not be the cheapest of dining establishments, but it’s good to know that their heart’s in the right place. So if you choose to go anywhere for a special occasion, bear in mind that Hawksmoor have been shortlisted as one of the most sustainable restaurants in the country.
4. Banana Tree, Various
[Banana Tree]Serving a selection of well-priced Thai, Malaysian and Vietnamese food, The Banana Tree chain are a great pit-stop. They also have a unique partnership with The Orang-utan Appeal, which aids the rehabilitation of orphan orangutans. If you decided to pop in, be sure to order the crispy chicken with sweet mango and lime (£8.50), as a proportion of this money goes directly to the charity.
5. Fairly Square, Holborn
[Fairly Square]Describing itself as the most ethical bar in the area, where you can ‘change the world over drinks’, Fairly Square plays its part in giving back to our world. Not only do they use solely Fair Trade or organically sourced goods, but they also give 20% of their profits to charity. Serving coffee, cocktails and delicious pop-up food with a laid-back vibe, you’re sure to have a great time helping the world a little 😉
