Luminous Feast
Friday 13 December 2024
83 Dalston Lane, London (map)
As the year draws to a close, we gathered once more at 83 Dalston Lane for an evening filled with warmth and connection over a delicious three-course meal. The table was dotted with glowing candles, creating an intimate setting to celebrate the upcoming turning point of the year, when light begins its gradual return. It was a special time to reflect on the past year and look forward to brighter days ahead.
About the event
For some of our regulars, it felt wonderful to be back in such a cosy and welcoming space. New faces joined us too, including three groups visiting for the first time. One family had travelled from West London, who struck up a wonderful conversation with a group of three artists at the table. One of the artists kindly sketched portraits for the children on the back of the front-of-house team’s order pad.
We were delighted to welcome a few paying guests as well, who spent much of the evening chatting with V, a regular guest known for her vibrant stories and joyful presence. Her positive energy brought so much life to the gathering, as it always does.
Before dessert, we held our free raffle for guests, this time with a festive twist. There was a great atmosphere as prizes were claimed, including some lovely skin care, biscuits, and panatone. We had special donations from long-time supporters of Mike’s Table and local businesses – a huge thank you for your generosity.
As the evening drew to a close, one guest shared, "There aren’t many restaurants where you walk in and end up hugging everyone." Mike’s Table offers a rare opportunity for people to connect in this way. Guests left with full hearts and new friendships, rounding off a truly luminous evening.
Thank you to our friends at City Harvest, who donated a wonderful range of unique, high-quality ingredients for our chefs to craft a delicious meal. The food is always within its use-by date and would otherwise be thrown away.
A huge thank you to all our guests who joined us at Luminous Feast! It was an absolute joy to celebrate the end of another incredible year of Mike’s Table events with you.
Menu
Welcome Drink:
Classic Vermouth & Soda or Winter Bitter Mocktail
Starter:
French Onion Soup with Brie en Croûte
Main:
Aubergine and Mushroom Gratin
Or
Pan-Fried Chicken Breast with Garlic and Sage Butter
Both Served with a Medley of Greens and Za'atar Roast Potatoes
Dessert:
Christmas Pudding with Pistachio and Cinnamon Cream
Guest blog writer
This blog post was written by one of our long-term volunteers, Mala.
The Team
Kitchen: Andi, Simon, T, and Daniel
Front of House: Louise, Meggie, Justine, and Mala
Our Partners
As ever, we couldn’t do it without you:
Carers Network Compassionate Neighbours Creating Ground
New Art Studio Nova New Opportunities Room to Heal
Many thanks to our Food & Drink Donors:
City Harvest Uncharted Wines
Kind words from our guests
"There aren’t many restaurants where you walk in and end up hugging everyone."
“I just want to say a big thank you to all. It was a great evening. Hospitality, atmosphere, food, entertainment - absolutely amazing.”
