Friday Night in Abbey Road might sound like a TV show presented by Jools Holland but is in fact the catchy title of New London Synagogue’s series of Friday night dinners.
Part community dinner, part young adults shmooze, the mix of people is totally unpredictable which can be refreshing but beware – make sure you sit where you’ll feel comfortable. The communal focus means you could end up next to a grandmother or a hedge fund manager, the choice is yours. If you’re into networking or spouse hunting this is prime territory; the prestigious St. John’s Wood location combined with a credible new rabbi is starting to attract some quite eligible young Jews.
If you want a traditional shabbos dinner in a relaxed environment this could be the place for you. The food is good and the meat menu with decent wine will ensure you don’t go home hungry. There’s always Kiddush, Hamotzi and benching as well as lots of singing so brush up on your zemirot as there’s no transliteration.
The welcome is warm – this is somewhere where they will definitely try to sell you their community and the rabbi often gives his regular sales pitch after a mid-meal D’var Torah. Judaism is definitely taken seriously and the learning is both challenging and engaging. Audience participation is expected but watch out, the rabbi is probably cleverer than you are.
The dress code is smart and it makes sense to arrive on time to ensure your seating strategy works out. Services are held just before but most people won’t necessarily be there in time for them, only turning up for dinner. Booking in advance is essential.