About this Event
These unique locations were the star turns on the recent highly-acclaimed 'Tooting Food Festival' – an unforgettable two day spectacle, the perfect showcase for what has become ‘the culinary capital of south London’. On a joyous weekend, Tooting and Broadway Market pulsated as people came from London and beyond, eyes popping at the range and quality of beautiful cuisine on offer. From across South Asia and its diaspora: Sri Lankan, Mauritian, Pakistani, Punjabi, Afghani, Gujarati, and East African, from the Caribbean, Phillipines, Japan, Ghana, Thailand, Turkey, South America, Mexico, Somalia, Ethiopia and every corner of Europe.
There is truly a bewildering and beguiling range of food on ‘Planet Tooting’ and it can all be a bit daunting. My tour is the perfect unravel. Not only will I guide you around both markets pointing out what you need to know about, but I’ll also be shining a light on the history. What foods have tickled Tooting palates over the last 150 years? Food memories of knickerbocker glories, camomile, pie and mash and delicious Jamaican stout cake. Notable stallholders include Jack Cohen who laid the foundation of his Tesco food empire here in 1930, Charlie Watkins whose amplification powered Jimi Hendrix at the Isle of Wight, the much-loved 'Miss G' Gloria Reid and Jackie Brafman the King of Petticoat Lane. The eels, the eggs, the samosas, fried chicken and sweet reggae music combine in one big melting pot to make this a very special place, a precious living, breathing affirmation of life and community which we should cherish with all our heart.
Geoff Simmons runs a community history project in south west London called Summerstown182 alongside his job as a graphic designer. This involves Guided Walks and Talks, working with schools and putting up plaques. Over the last ten years a trail of these have emerged along the Wandle Valley, shining a light on some of the lesser-known history in this area. Have a look on Geoff's blog for more details or follow @summerstown182 on social media.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Tooting Broadway tube station (meet at statue in front of station)Tooting High Street, London, England, SW17 0SU, United Kingdom
GBP 11.55
