Four online food events for your culinary calendar

The news that restaurants are reopening on the 4^th July has given the hospitality industry a quick gasp of fresh air, but it’s far from breathing a long sigh of relief. With the sector struggling under the financial losses of the past few months, chefs are banding together to help get it back on its feet, offering a series of online masterclasses and culinary experiences that will feed both staff and foodies alike. Here are a few of the best virtual feasts.

Today’s Special: Live Charity Auction – 1^st July

At the start of next month, some big culinary names including Tom Kerridge, Michel Roux Jr and Angela Hartnett will be offering their expertise in order to raise money for both Action Against Hunger and Hospitality Action, helping those facing hunger around the world as well as hospitality workers affected by the Covid-19 crisis. The auction will be hosted live on zoom, with prizes ranging from a private masterclass with Sabrina Ghayour to a Sunday roast cooked for you at home by Sally Abé, head chef of London’s only Michelin-starred pub, The Harwood Arms. Book here to pick up your virtual paddle and make a bid (suggested donation £5).

50 Best Bid for Recovery Auction – 3^rd July

From the best in the country to the best in existence, 50 Best has launched its own global auction offering bespoke gastronomic experiences in some of the world’s most revered kitchens. These include a day with Mauro Colagreco of three-michelin-starred Mirazur; a four-day “Discover Singapore” adventure encompassing cuisine, cocktails and culture; and a three-day Peruvian food safari. All of the money raised in the auction will help provide relief for restaurants recovering from the coronavirus pandemic. For more information visit their website here.

London Pizza Festival Home Edition – 18^th-19^th July

It’s clear that in our current situation food festivals as we know them are off the menu. But thanks to Daniel Young of Young & Foodish, the London Pizza Festival will live on in a new, slightly pixellated reincarnation. The event, which is due to take place 18^th-19^th July, will feature a series of online masterclasses showing you how to make your favourite pizzas at home, as well as offering the opportunity to order festival specials from some of London’s best pizzerias, dropped off at your door. Legendary chefs such as Franco Pepe will be sharing recipes, with ready-made dough and pizza kits available for those who want to flour up and take part. 

Food and Drink Festival 2020

If what you’re missing about festivals is the opportunity to peruse the stalls and sample products from local suppliers and restaurants, the Food and Drink Festival 2020 has been crafted to cater to these needs. The site has a great index full of all sorts of produce sourced from all over the UK, ranging from condiments and chocolate to vegan and vegetarian food – all of which can be delivered straight to you. By linking you directly to the site of suppliers, the festival also shows support for small businesses.

Rosamund Kelby