With the festive season in sight, the pairing of a duo that fits the theme of indulgence is Cheers and Cheese to EU, a series of culinary events, dedicated to the appreciation of Prosecco PDO and Grana Padano PDO. This unique initiative celebrates and showcases the exceptional qualities of these two European heroes, renowned not only for their classic heritage but also for their endless versatility in various culinary contexts.
To honour the significant historical popularity of these delicious classics, Cheers and Cheese to EU has initiated a menu takeover at 6 participating restaurants for a three-week duration in November, featuring Grana Padano PDO and Prosecco PDO as the key ingredients. The events take place across London and Glasgow Monday 11th – Saturday 30th November. Our contributor, Evie Allen-Jones, attended one of the events in Fitzrovia and provides her insights…
A taste of Cheers and Cheese to EU
On Tuesday night, I attended an exclusive tasting of Grand Padano PDO Cheese and Prosecco PDO at Salt Yard, Fitzrovia. The event was a celebration of the EU in tribute to the historic recipes and production of Italian PDO cheese and prosecco.
In the intimate setting of Salt Yard’s basement dining area transformed into an event space, I had the opportunity to hear about the production line and the PDO’s legacy while sampling a variety of PDO Cheese and prosecco.
Both Prosecco and Grana Padano, produced in Italy, have PDO status (protected designation of origin), which means they are certified-quality products traditionally produced following centuries-old recipes and tied to the territory and people of their production area. During the launch, we heard about the history of the production and how important it is to recognise and honour these traditions.
Grana Padano PDO is a type of hard cheese made from cows’ milk and, since the 12th century, has been created in Northern Italy. It was first created by Cistercian monks in Chiaravalle Abbey in Milan over 900 years ago. The PDO status is an honour and a mark of excellence, proving how important legacy is for a product. It is still produced daily in 5 regions in the north of Italy by 128 passionate producers. Its rich, nutty flavour, which evolves during its ageing process, can last from a minimum of 9 to over 24 months. The cheese is a versatile ingredient and is perfect for a variety of dishes or simply to be eaten on its own. I got to try the cheese in both ways and loved it, especially as an addition to the Creamy Spinach Balls and Courgette Fritters served at the event.
The Prosecco PDO is produced in Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia and is named after the village of Prosecco, located in the province of Trieste. More than 350 Prosecco producers work to keep the beloved traditions alive and enjoyed globally. Prosecco PDO, which has a light, refreshing taste and is extremely versatile, is exported to more than 160 countries worldwide.
Bringing these traditions to London allows us to celebrate the marriage of these two European heroes who are renowned for their classic heritage and endless versatility.
For the next few weeks, until the 30th of November, Grana Padano PDO and Prosecco PDO will be taking centre stage at different restaurants in London. Diners will be able to visit Salt Yard in Fitzrovia, Dehesa or Walmer Castle and experience the historic Italian creations. When you dine, you will be able to select the special edition Cheers and Cheese menu and have the exciting experience of having your palette transported to Northern Italy.
For lovers of food with a bold history, this menu is perfect. I loved the opportunity to learn about the food and drink I was tasting, and now I want to visit the heritage sights in Italy to see the production myself!
📍 Salt Yard, 54 Goodge St, London W1T 4NA
Event Info
Food connoisseurs and anyone who is keen to be involved in the experience, will be able to book a space with any of the participating partners.
Cheers and Cheese will be hosted in collaboration with 6 UK restaurants in total. Please see full list of participating London restaurants below:
· The Salt Yard, London
Salt Yard opened in 2005 and 19 years later is under the creative direction of the Head Chef Panajot Prifti whose dishes range from the intricate to the beautifully simple.
· Dehesa, London
Dehesa is a charcuterie and tapas bar inspired by the cuisine and wines of Spain and Italy. Head Chef Marcin Ciesielski creates a seasonally changing ,delightfully simple tapas menu for the Carnaby masses to enjoy.
· Walmer Castle, London
This historic West London neighbourhood freehouse offers a range of thoughtfully designed spaces across its three storeys where you can grab a casual supper with someone special or catch some live music.
You can head over to www.cheersandcheese.eu for more information.
Written by Evie Allen-Jones @evieajones.media | Photos by Kai Lutterodt @the.soho.girl
Evie is a passionate young journalist studying in London while interning at My Soho Times. She has a keen eye for fashion and beauty, exploring the city’s vibrant streets to uncover trendy spots and hidden gems for young people. With a talent for storytelling, Evie shares her findings through articles and social media on TikTok and Instagram, inviting readers and viewers to experience London from her unique perspective Follow her journey here @evieajones.media
Share your thoughts in the comment box below!
More from the blog:
Get social with us – follow and tag us! @mysohotimes #MySohoTimes
Special Offers – Straight to Your Inbox!
Receive the latest news, events, and discounts from our partners in a MONTHLY newsletter… Ready to join the club?
MY SOHO TIMES 
One thought on “Cheers and Cheese to EU: Celebrate Prosecco and Grana Padano at these London Restaurants | My Soho Times”