Vida is our new Persian cook and describes her cooking as a symphony of flavours. It lies a delicate balance of sweet and sour, earthy and fragrant, rich yet subtle. Herbs are used abundantly, not just as garnishes but as foundational elements. Saffron, dried limes, turmeric, rosewater, pomegranate molasses, and cinnamon infuse dishes with complex aromas and deep hues.
Persian cuisine is much more than a collection of recipes — it is a living tradition, a story told in spices, stews, and shared tables. Whether you’re biting into crispy tahdig, savouring the tartness of a pomegranate-laced stew, or enjoying the aroma of freshly brewed cardamom tea, you’re tasting centuries of culture and care.

To book: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mesa-vidas-persian-cuisine-tickets-1719964412859?aff=ebdsoporgprofile&keep_tld=1

Hind is from Syria and came here six years ago. She studied philosophy in Syria and wanted to find a new home. It was hard for her to feel like she belonged in a different country. She thought about how to create a place that felt like home. Hind decided to use cooking to show her culture. She started making her mom’s recipes and really liked cooking. She added her own ideas and then started her own business called Utopia.

Laila is back with us after travelling for a while in South-East Asia and living in Australia for a while. She cooks tasty vegetarian/vegan dishes with an Asian/Persian influence (from her Iranian roots).

Elwood King joined us last month by organising a benefit cookbook launch evening at the Bonnington in collaboration with Gatwick Detainees Welfare Group.

Effra’s Table brings together cooks who have lived along the path of the River Effra – now gathering at the river’s end in Vauxhall, at the beloved Bonnington Café, to share simple, seasonal, wholesome, and hearty dishes with the community around us.

Our focus is on fermented foods, seasonality, and an ever growing curiosity in how we grow, cook, and eat. 

We donate 3% of the takings from Effra’s Table to Gatwick Detainees Welfare Group who support people affected by immigration detention.

Samarkand Palav is a family run street food based in London. They specialise in Central Asian cuisine and their main dish is Palav. They have a variety of vegan dishes and offer a very authentic taste. The idea started by a family passionate about their culture and homemade recipes passed down through generations. They want to introduce something very new to Londoners and share their rich history and culture of the ancient Silk Road!

Laila is back with us after travelling for a while in South-East Asia and living in Australia for a while. She cooks tasty vegetarian/vegan dishes with an Asian/Persian influence (from her Iranian roots). She has been cooking at the Bonnington most Thursdays in August!

Laila is back with us after travelling for a while in South-East Asia and living in Australia for a while. She cooks tasty vegetarian/vegan dishes with an Asian/Persian influence (from her Iranian roots). She will be cooking at the Bonnington most Thursdays in August!

Laila is back with us after travelling for a while in South-East Asia and living in Australia for a while. She cooks tasty vegetarian/vegan dishes with an Asian/Persian influence (from her Iranian roots). She will be cooking at the Bonnington most Thursdays in August!

Kavita brings Rojak Party to the Café, serving up modern Southeast Asian cuisine inspired by the vibrant food culture of her hometown, Singapore. Expect punchy flavours and fun pairings, all made with great seasonal British ingredients. You will be served a fusion feast that celebrates Singaporeans’ national hobby: eating.