A new Hackney restaurant festival will launch next month to shine a spotlight on independent, neighbourhood joints during the quieter winter season.
Founded by Dalston favourite Acme Fire Cult and the hospitality app EatClub, the “chef-led” celebration is to run throughout February with the aim to drive footfall.
The festival will bring together some of Hackney’s most highly regarded restaurants, supporting the community and some of the borough’s culinary talent.
Paul Rosser, from Acme Fire Cult, told the Standard he also wants to increase accessibility and affordability during a period when diners traditionally have less to spend.
Dining offers during the restaurant festival will include set menus and considerable discounts, including a 40 per cent off deal.
“I’ve always admired the impact of New York Restaurant Week in making top restaurants accessible to everyone, and this inspired our festival,” said Rosser.
“Hackney has a vibrant and rapidly evolving food scene, with creative, independent restaurants that are deeply rooted in the local community.
“Launching in February also helps restaurants through one of the quieter periods of the year, keeping these local institutions thriving while giving people a chance to get out, socialize, and enjoy the incredible food Hackney has to offer.”
Participating venues include Mangal 2, Tom’s Pasta, Corrochio’s, Alber’s, My Neighbours the Dumplings, Sune, Oren, Berber & Q and Big Night.
Pan Koutlakis, CEO at EatClub, said: “February is a tough month for many restaurants so we have built this festival with one simple goal in mind: filling more tables at the time restaurants need them most.”
To take part, diners must download and sign up to the EatClub app, which is free to use. Users can then browse participating restaurants and find the latest deals, redeemable in the app.
The Hackney Restaurant Festival will run from February 1-28, eatclub.co.uk
