London’s food scene never sleeps, and neither do its up-and-coming culinary stars. This spring, Gin Mare and The Hoxton, Southwark are launching Hot Plates, a kitchen takeover series that hands the reins to some of the city’s most exciting emerging chefs. Running throughout March and April at Albie, The Hoxton’s all-day lobby restaurant, the series celebrates the intersection of bold flavors, innovative gastronomy, and expertly crafted gin cocktails.
Shoreditch has long been a breeding ground for creative food ventures, and while this event is happening south of the river, its spirit is all about giving a platform to boundary-pushing talent. Expect daring dishes, inventive cocktails, and a celebration of London’s dynamic dining culture.
A Rotating Lineup of Culinary Innovators
Each week, a different chef (or chefs) will take over the kitchen at Albie, curating a menu that pairs effortlessly with Gin Mare’s Mediterranean-inspired botanical gin cocktails. Here’s what’s on the menu:
Helen Graham Brings Middle Eastern Flair – March 21st
First up, Helen Graham, the former Executive Chef at Bubala, kicks things off with a plant-based feast showcasing bold Middle Eastern flavors. Known for elevating vegetarian dishes to near-religious experiences, she presents a menu packed with vibrant spices and unexpected textures.
- Cocktail Pairing: The Spice Route – Gin Mare, Coconut Cream, Peppercorn Marmalade, Soda.
- Hero Dishes: Whole roasted cauliflower with bkeila cream, matchstick black lime fries, and a carrot, lemongrass & rosewater halva with pistachio & cashew.
Helen has mastered the art of creating complex flavors from simple, fresh ingredients. If you’re after an indulgent, yet guilt-free experience, this is the night for you.
Vegetarian Brown Girls Serve Up Gujarati Home Comforts – March 28th
The mother-daughter duo behind Vegetarian Brown Girls have been making waves with their intimate supper clubs celebrating traditional Gujarati cuisine. Now, they’re stepping out of their home kitchen to introduce Londoners to the depth and warmth of their West Indian flavors.
- Cocktail Pairing: Ember and Herb – Gin Mare, Tamarind, Basil, Chili, Lime.
- Hero Dishes: DIY Pani Puri starter, classic Vegetable Samosas, and Parle G Barfi Sandwiches.
This is comfort food with a kick, best enjoyed with a Gin Mare cocktail that enhances the bold, tangy, and spicy elements of the meal.
Uncle Hon’s BBQ – American Smoke Meets Chinese Spice – April 4th
To wrap up the series, Uncle Hon’s BBQ brings Cantonese-infused American BBQ to the table, blending the deep smokiness of traditional barbecue with aromatic, umami-rich Chinese flavors. Think slow-cooked meats with an unexpected edge.
- Cocktail Pairing: Ribs, Rake and Records – Gin Mare, Campari, Soy Sauce Vermouth, Smoked Salt.
- Hero Dishes: Char Siu Iberico Pork Ribs, Pho Spice Ox Cheek, and Xian Cumin Pulled Lamb Shoulder served with rice and pickles.
If you like meat that falls off the bone and cocktails that hit hard, this is the night for you.
Gin Mare: The Ultimate Gastronomic Gin
Gin Mare is not your average gin. With rosemary, basil, thyme, and Arbequina olives, it brings a uniquely savory twist, making it the perfect companion for food pairings. Designed to embrace Mediterranean flavors, it works seamlessly with fresh, seasonal ingredients—which is exactly what this series is all about.
With its depth of flavor and botanical complexity, Gin Mare turns cocktail hour into a culinary experience. Each dish has been carefully matched with a gin-based cocktail, making the drinks as much of a star as the food.
How to Get Tickets for Hot Plates at The Hoxton
Tickets for the Hot Plates series are priced at £45 per person and include:
✔ A Gin Mare & Tonic on arrival, garnished with rosemary and orange peel.
✔ A full dining experience by one of London’s rising chefs.
✔ The chance to experience one-off menus in a stylish, community-driven setting.
This isn’t just dinner—it’s a curated evening of bold flavors, standout cocktails, and serious food creativity.
A Toast to London’s Next Culinary Stars
London’s dining scene thrives on new talent, fresh ideas, and bold flavors. With Hot Plates, The Hoxton and Gin Mare are giving emerging chefs a platform to shine—and giving us all a reason to go out and eat something exciting.
Shoreditch has always been home to boundary-pushing gastronomy, and while this series unfolds south of the river, its spirit is exactly what we love: bold, fresh, and fearlessly creative.
Ready to experience the next wave of London’s food scene? Book your tickets, grab a Gin Mare, and let’s eat.
