Join us at a food festival of different cultures and flavours, right here in the heart of Redbridge.

We are hosting a week of free food workshops and events at the newly-opened Mercato Metropolitano in Ilford. These workshops will be a hands-on discovery of global flavours. You will learn from expert facilitators and share your own recipes and food journeys with fellow foodies.

Workshops will be:

• Monday: the art of chocolate making with Eonce Chocolate
• Tuesday: Italian breadmaking (focaccia) with Fresco Trattoria
• Wednesday: explore dumplings and fillings with Khao Suppers
• Thursday: blend your own herbal teas with Hackney Herbal
• Friday: create your own unique spice blends with Khao Suppers

Each day will feature performances from emerging musicians from East London Arts and Music (ELAM). These artists will be providing the live soundtrack to the activities as you enjoy the food you’ve prepared.

Who is this for?

You don’t need any experience of cooking to take part. These workshops are designed to be fun and accessible for everyone, regardless of your cooking background. Under 16s will need to be accompanied by an adult, and the workshops are not suitable for those under 10.

What is the format of the workshops?

Each workshop lasts up to 2 hours and will take place within Mercato Metropolitano’s community space. You will get an introduction about the food or drink you’re making to learn about the origins and food journeys around the world. You will then get to sense the different elements to make your very own product. We also want to encourage people to share their own food stories and recipes.

Workshops are free to attend and all materials will be provided. Some activities are a little bit messy, so we recommend wearing clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty.

What will I get out of it?

You will learn about different cooking styles from around the world and discover exciting new techniques. You will also get to make new friends and share with them your own food journeys and memories.

How to book?

Use the link on the right-hand side of the page to book via Bookwhen or call us on 020 8708 2858 and choose option 4. For more information, email hello@colours.red. Booking guarantees you a space, but there will also be some spaces available first-come-first-served on the day.

How do I get there?

Mercato Metropolitano is just off Ilford town centre, opposite Redbridge Central Library. We recommend taking public transport where possible. Many bus routes stop nearby at the library such as 128, 150, 167, 247, 275, and 462. Ilford station is a 10-minute walk, and there is limited parking at the Mildmay Road Car Park. Plan your journey at tfl.gov.uk.

Access

All our activities are step-free with facilities such as accessible toilets. Most activities can be easily adapted for people with varying disabilities or neurodiversity. Please email us at access@colours.red to discuss your requirements.

About Mercato Metropolitano:

Mercato Metropolitano is a large marketplace known for its wide variety of food vendors offering cuisine from all over the world. They have multiple locations already in London and which have become a popular destination for both locals and tourists. This summer, Mercato Metropolitano is expanding and opening a brand new location in Ilford and we’re excited to be working with them.

About ELAM:

East London Arts & Music (ELAM) is a world-class, Ofsted outstanding, sixth form college that opened in September 2014 in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. The school was co-founded by Will Kennard of stadium-filling dance band Chase and Status, providing students with a free, two-year specialist education in Music, Games Design or Film & Television studies. ELAM was founded with the guiding vision that all children growing up in the UK see themselves reflected in UK culture.

Please arrive 10 minutes before the advertised start time as any empty spaces will be reallocated on the day.