Trade Secrets

A pop-up dining experience uncovering the world of Captain John Harle, a local merchant with imports from around the eighteenth century globe.

Taking place from 28 May to 1 June at Rainham Hall, a beautiful Georgian house in Rainham, east London, Trade Secrets will involve an exceptional mix of design, food and entertainment, on the theme of river trade and the secret world of stolen treasures. Guests will be greeted by local merchant Captain John Harle and regaled with stories from his time at sea, introducing the ‘stolen’ and imported goods being served with each course.

Location

Rainham Hall, Broadway, Rainham RM13 9YN

Price

£55 includes five course meal and welcome drink

Dates

28th May – 1st June
7.30pm – 11pm

Inspired by the history of the house, chef Ellen Parr will design a five-course menu inspired by eighteenth century recipes and full of twists and surprises. Be transported around the historical world of food trade and exchange with an exciting menu that plays with rich and exotic flavours teamed with the traditional food of the sea merchant.

Expect salted meats, limes for scurvy, ship’s biscuits, smuggled envelopes of parmesan, nutmeg, spices and much more.

Continuing the Art of Dining’s ethos to wholly transport guests into another world, Trade Secrets will incorporate bespoke design to create an immersive dining experience. Think old maps with routes planned out, glowing lamps, wooden tables, messages in bottles. Smuggled silk will adorn hidden corners in different rooms in the house, holding surprises to stumble upon between courses. Guests will be invited to enter the world of secret imports by unwrapping smuggled goods and following instructions attached to vessels and packages.