Join Geoff Simmons (Planet Tooting) and Dipa Patel (Taste of Tooting Tours) for Taste of Planet Tooting, a unique walking tour through one of South London’s most culturally rich neighbourhoods. As part of South Asian Heritage Month and in celebration of Wandsworth’s year as Borough of Culture, they invite you to experience the flavours, stories, and heritage of Tooting’s diverse South Asian communities.
On this immersive journey, you will visit local food businesses and community spaces run by individuals and families from across South Asia and the diaspora: Sri Lankan, Mauritian, Guyanese, Pakistani, Punjabi, Afghani, Gujarati, and East African. Through conversations with chefs, cooks, producers and shop owners, we’ll discover the personal and culinary narratives that bind generations and cultures together.
From cherished staples to bold fusion creations, food in Tooting tells a rich story of memory, identity, and belonging. As you journey through this vibrant neighbourhood, you will explore how waves of migration have shaped its character and hear the personal stories woven into its streets and shopfronts. You will discover why Tooting has long been a place of welcome, offering a sense of community, resilience, and renewal to those seeking a new beginning, and how it continues to embrace newcomers while honouring its diverse heritage.
Stops will include the following, although may be subject to change:
- Poojas – A beloved local institution since 1996, Poojas is renowned for its exquisite range of traditional South Asian sweets and savoury snacks, crafted with authentic flavours and generations of expertise.
- Spice Village – More than just a restaurant, Spice Village is home to a local hero. During the COVID-19 pandemic, founder Suleman Raza mobilised efforts to feed vulnerable members of the community, exemplifying the true spirit of service and solidarity.
- Little India – A treasure trove for home cooks, Little India offers an eclectic array of kitchenware – from traditional pots and pans to hard-to-find essentials – all steeped in the vibrant energy of South Asian culinary heritage.
- Bhavins – This cherished greengrocer brings the world to your plate, stocking fresh produce from across the globe. Bhavins is where local families find the flavours of home, no matter how far away home may be.
- Jafar – Quite simply: mangos. Juicy, golden, sun-ripened mangos that transport you with every bite. A seasonal delight in Tooting that draws mango lovers from all over.
- Manges Des Iles – Tucked inside Tooting Market, this culinary gem serves up irresistible Mauritian dishes. Expect bold flavours, warm hospitality, and food that sings with island soul.
✨ Tasters, snacks and drinks will be provided along the way. Please bring a tote bag and tupperware box as it might be handy for any leftovers.
🎫 Limited tickets available — book early to avoid missing this flavour-packed cultural experience! More information about meeting points to be emailed before the event.
This event is in partnership with Planet Tooting, Taste of Tooting Tours and Wandsworth Council.
Where: Tooting, Wandsworth – Borough of Culture 2025
When: Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 August, 2pm – 5pm
Cost: £20