The motto for Leeds Chaverim is that the “kitchen door is always open”. But don’t worry, the emphasis is on being open to new people and having lots of yummy food rather than standing in a draft as a cold wind blows in from the Dales.
It attracts a very diverse crowd, with very different people each time, so it’s a great opportunity to meet new people and catch up with old friends who might have moved away and returned for the weekend.
And if you’re new to town it’s an excellent first stop with other people sure to be in the same boat as you.
Guests are given a business card, a website to view and a voicemail contact. The venue varies with different people taking turns to host.
The very informal Friday night suppers are held throughout the year and are well regarded. The formula seems to work with everyone making an effort to contribute towards the pot luck dinner; a recent highlight being home baked challah that smells and tastes divine. There is an understanding of kashrut and the food is vegetarian.
Dinner starts with Kiddush and there’s an informal, light discussion on a Jewish theme between main and dessert, prepared by members of the group. Sometimes the evening ends with bensching, though that’s not always the case.
Interim meetings are arranged to plan dates, venues and people willing to host are booked in advance and if you are roped in to playing host you have the privilege of choosing a menu of starter, main and dessert for others to bring.
The atmosphere is inclusive and informal with no dress code, so long as you’re comfortable and happy! You don’t often get to eat at a table; it’s more of a plates-on-laps affair which might not be up your street but does help in creating a laid-back vibe. It’s also of a manageable size – certainly a plus if you are considering hosting- with usually no more than 12 or 15 guests per dinner so it’s very easy to meet everyone and avoids being cliquey.
Other events might be planned for the future, to capture the new found vibrancy of the area utilising the Jewish community centre and complementing the Leeds Jewish Initiative.