Support for Ukraine: Culinary Initiatives by iBestTravel

A city-wide, industry-spanning appeal is underway to increase awareness of the crisis in Ukraine and raise money for Unicef’s work in the country across London. At the time of writing (6 April 2022), more than £400,000 has already been raised.

Ukrainian-born chef Olia Hercules, Russian chef Alissa Timoshkina, and Polish chef Zuza Zak are leading the efforts alongside London-based Instagrammer Clerkenwell Boy. Their inspiration stemmed from the 2016’s £1 million-raising Cook for Syria initiative, and they quickly developed plans following the outbreak of war in Ukraine.

Cook for Ukraine Initiative

The Cook for Ukraine concept is straightforward: restaurants and bars can participate by asking diners to add £1, £2, or £5 to their bill, with the proceeds going directly to Unicef. This charitable effort aims to provide critical support including healthcare, clean water, and food to families in need across Ukraine.

Participating Restaurants

Many of London’s renowned restaurants are participating, including Sessions Arts Club, East London’s Manteca, and Michelin-starred Kol, among others. These establishments are also celebrating Ukrainian culture through their culinary offerings:

• Flor Bakery is selling a special Ukrainian rye bread.
• Koya has introduced a Ukrainian-inspired Green Borsch udon with onsen tomago.
• Officina 00 is recreating a Ukrainian dumpling dish known as Vareniki.
• Big Mamma Group has developed a bruschetta topped with Ukrainian ‘salo’ (or lardo) and freshly chopped herbs, donating all proceeds to Cook for Ukraine.

Ukrainian Recipes and Cooking at Home

Additionally, a list of Ukrainian recipes is available for those wishing to cook at home and donate. Participants are encouraged to share their culinary creations on social media, using the hashtag #CookForUkraine.

Upcoming Events

The initiative also includes various events, such as the Pierogi for Peace workshop scheduled for Saturday, 30 April at Studio Feast in Hackney. Moreover, Roundabout the House, a new pop-up focused on food and entertainment, will be hosting a charity brunch in West London on Saturday, 9 April, led by chef Andrew Clarke.

Additional Support from the Hospitality Sector

Beyond the Cook for Ukraine initiative, many bars and restaurants are contributing to humanitarian efforts. Ognisko Polskie in South Kensington has added the Zelenskyy cocktail to its menu, which includes ingredients representing the colors of the Ukrainian flag. A portion of the proceeds from each cocktail will support Choose Love’s Ukraine Crisis Fundraiser.

Moreover, renowned bartenders Marian Beke and Tony Pescatori have crafted four unique cocktails featuring Ukrainian vodka brand Dima’s. Proceeds from these beverages will also contribute to support efforts.

Lastly, the Drinkers for Ukraine initiative invites breweries worldwide to produce beers to help those affected in Ukraine, with proceeds directed toward the Red Cross humanitarian relief efforts. This collaborative undertaking allows everyone to participate in supporting a meaningful cause.