"We come from the tradition of where many cultures are embraced from different cuisines under the one roof of Ottomans."
So reads the Shish Restaurant's
website. Such noble sentiments can often be nothing more than hollow marketing speak to attract clientele, but in this case it couldn't be truer. That's because the eatery in Sidcup, south-east London have extended their hospitality to the most needy and vulnerable this festive period.
They are ensuring that no one in the local area goes without with a beautiful gesture to the homeless and elderly - two sections of society for whom the Yuletide period can be especially lonely and heartbreaking. Shish have posted the following notices in their restaurant window to reach out to those most in need of a cheery Noël...
https://twitter.com/NicoleMorleyPet/status/801179186379505664
The sign reads:
"No one eats alone on Christmas Day. We are here to sit with you. 3 course meal for the homeless and elderly from 12-6pm - free of charge."
Christmas Day guests will be treated to a starter option of soup or cacik (a yoghurt-based dish); a main course of chicken casserole, vegetarian casserole, or chicken shish; and a dessert of rice pudding to round off the gratis meal.
It is natural that we are all consumed in our own festive preparations and celebrations at this time of year, and for the retail and restaurant sector, it can be an incredibly important time for profit margins and staying afloat. Despite that, it is truly heartwarming that a place of business is keeping the true spirit of Christmas alive in such a lovely way.
Good will to all men and women, indeed.
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