Manchester’s hospitality scene unites for a week of giving back

Manchester’s renowned hospitality scene has long been a cornerstone of our city’s incredible culture.

Now, more than ever, the generosity and talent of our local chefs, restaurateurs, and volunteers are shining through as they unite for a truly impactful cause.

From the 21st to the 27th of October, Manchester’s hospitality collective, Eat Well MCR, will be hosting the “Eat Well, Do Good” festival – a week-long celebration filled with events, food, and fundraising, all aimed at tackling food poverty in our community.

And they need your help.

As part of its fundraising efforts, the collective is encouraging hospitality venues across Greater Manchester to get involved.

Eat Well, Do Good by Eat Well MCR

This exciting festival isn’t just about at great scran with incredible food that Manchester’s best restaurants have to offer.

It’s about supporting the vital work of Eat Well MCR, which provides thousands of meals each month to those in need across Greater Manchester.

From children living in temporary accommodation to women seeking refuge in shelters, the collective’s efforts have touched countless lives, offering nourishment and hope to some of the city’s most vulnerable residents.

With more than 7,000 homeless children in Greater Manchester, according to leading charity Shelter, the need for community action has never been greater.

Eat Well MCR is stepping up, delivering roughly 2,500 meals per month to people facing economic hardship. But as the demand continues to rise, so does the need for support. That’s where this festival comes in.

Ramona, Maray, 10 Tib Lane

The “Eat Well, Do Good” festival will see some of Manchester’s favourite hospitality venues – including Ramona, Maray, 10 Tib Lane, Chorlton Cheesemongers, and chef Caroline Martins – banding together to raise much-needed funds.

Whether it’s offering a special dish or drink with proceeds going to the cause or adding a £1 donation to every bill, restaurants across the city are getting creative in their contributions.

This initiative strives to unite chefs, restaurants, and volunteers in delivering meals, sourcing ingredients, and raising awareness and funds to support underprivileged communities in Manchester.

Will Taplin, Executive Chef for Ramona, Firehouse, and Diecast

Will Taplin, Executive Chef for Ramona, Firehouse, and Diecast, expressed his enthusiasm for the campaign: “We’re really excited to be part of this fundraising effort.

“Throughout October, we’ll be serving extra special slices at Ramona and full pie at Diecast, with a built-in donation from every pizza sold going directly to Eat Well MCR.”

And it’s not just the restaurants that are stepping up. Manchester’s hospitality community is inviting everyone – from chefs to foodies – to get involved.

Venues are encouraged to host their own fundraising events, organise team activities, or simply donate a portion of their sales to the cause.

“small acts of kindness will add up to make a big difference”

It’s a week where small acts of kindness will add up to make a big difference, proving once again that Manchester cares.

The festival will culminate in a party at Ramona on the 27th of October, where all proceeds from the evening will be donated to Eat Well MCR. Featuring DJs from Stells Selections, this closing event will bring together hospitality operators, the general public, and members of the community who have benefitted from Eat Well MCR’s services for a night of celebration and solidarity.

For those wanting to get involved, it’s as simple as signing up through Eat Well MCR’s “Eat Well, Do Good” Week page.

The collective has even produced a compelling video outlining the impact of poverty in Manchester, further emphasising the urgency of their mission.

Founded by Manchester chef and restaurateur Mary-Ellen McTague in April 2020, Eat Well MCR began as a response to the pandemic and has since delivered over 100,000 meals across Greater Manchester. This social enterprise partners with grassroots organisations to reach those most in need, from homeless families to parents of sick children in hospitals.

The collective is run by McTague alongside a powerhouse team that includes creative producer Gemma Saunders, marketing consultant Kathleen O’Connor, Cloudwater founder Paul Jones, and others who share a deep commitment to the community.

As the “Eat Well, Do Good” festival approaches, Manchester’s hospitality heroes are calling on everyone to join them in this city-wide movement of generosity, good food, and community spirit. Every pound raised and every meal served is a step toward a brighter future for all of Manchester’s residents.

How You Can Help

If you’re a hospitality venue looking to make a difference, consider participating in this meaningful initiative.

Whether it’s through a special menu item, a donation scheme, or a fundraising event, every contribution counts.

And for those eager to support, be sure to dine at participating venues throughout the week and attend the festival’s closing party at Ramona on the 27th.

Because in Manchester, we don’t just eat well – we do good.