The Secrets of Georgian Dining

Historian Peter Ross was a big hit at a Stationers’ literary lunch earlier in the year when he talked about his book Insatiable Appetites. Now he’s going to take us on an in-depth dive into how hungry citizens from all walks of life navigated the city’s diverse food scene.

You’ll hear how the warming drink saloop was once an early morning staple, especially for poorer people. How passers-by queued up for the street vendors who offered hot potatoes, suet puddings and gingerbread. And how as darkness fell, ladies of the night and their clients indulged themselves at always-open jelly shops.

Peter, a former Chief Librarian at London’s Guildhall Library, and a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries, will also explore the culinary influence of the empire, with London’s first Indian takeaway appearing in 1773, and fried fish arriving with Jewish immigrants in the East End.

This talk will fascinate anyone with an interest in London’s streets, the city’s colourful history, and the foods that sustained our ancestors, many leading to the culinary landscape of today.

Signed copies of Peter’s book Insatiable Appetites will be available to buy on the night.

Drinks and nibbles (21^st century only!) at 6.30 pm.
Lecture starts at 7.00 pm.
Drinks and networking at 8.00 pm.
Evening ends at 8.30 pm.

All profits go to the Stationers’ Hall charity.