The event saw close to 300 people enjoy a three course lunch prepared by Aikens at the Grade 2 listed Freemasons Hall in Covent Garden.

The event aims to bring everyone who works in the hospitality industry together, no matter their background, experience or seniority to raise funds for people facing homelessness. The charity is hoping to support a further 250 people facing homelessness into jobs within hospitality over the next 12 months. 

Cook and Dine is the brainchild of OAPA founder and chief executive Greg Mangham. He said: “We are delighted to have raised such a fantastic amount, all of which will go to help us strengthen our team ensuring we can connect with more employers, charities and candidates in finding work and stability through a career in hospitality. 

“The success of Cook and Dine just underscores what a brilliant, inclusive, caring and supportive industry we are all a part of.  We’re still collecting donations from yesterday, which is amazing, and are already planning next year’s event, which we want to make even bigger and better.”

Highlights from the event included an auction lot which will see the winning bidder join UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls for the day to visit the Houses of Parliament and enjoy lunch with an MP.