We speak with Moe Rahman at Bandook Kitchen in Bath, the leading Indian restaurant that is now offering free breakfasts for children
Why did you decide to offer a free children’s breakfast at Bandook?
My parents immigrated to the UK from Bangladesh in the 70s and I was born and raised in the East End during the 80’s. Growing up, I faced many challenges and came from an underprivileged background. It has since shaped my values and inspired me to give back to the community. If I can make a child’s day a little brighter through my work, it would mean the world to me.
How does the offer work and who is welcome to take part?
It’s called ‘Nourish to Flourish’, by Bandook and the initiative is that every child deserves a nutritious start to their day to flourish throughout their day, while also giving them the chance to try new foods. For every breakfast bought, whether it’s via dining in or ordering online, we will donate nutritious breakfast items for eg. Kolkata breakfast rolls, sweet or savoury uttapam, a box of bananas, a box of dates, breakfast bars etc.
I am currently collaborating alongside my good friends Ian & Naomi Hendricks who are the founders of the charity organisation, Dream Centre Project based in Mumbai. They currently have two schools whom would appreciate the offerings. I will be delivering the breakfast items to their morning breakfast clubs. Hopefully grow from there.
Are the breakfasts traditionally Indian or classically British?
It’s a combination of both, which means that the children who take part are certain to have a meal that works for them, as well as giving them the chance to try something new.
What is your favourite breakfast to enjoy with your family?
My favourite breakfast is the Kolkata breakfast roll – freshly made paratha with a masala omelette, followed by almond &v cardamom madeira cake, freshly baked in the morning with a sweet Masala chai – all available on the menu!
Which other community projects does Bandook work with?
We have recently worked with Dream Centre Project based in Mumbai but it is run by a wonderful couple (patrons of the Bath Abbey) Ian & Naomi. Together we hosted a Charity Dinner event at Bandook and we raised just under £2,000. Also, we deliver up to 50 meals to Julian House every Friday.
To find out about the amazing meals at Bandook, go to bandookkitchen.com
