A new initiative in Nottingham aims to explore the potential of public restaurants to enhance public health by offering affordable, high-quality meals. The project, part of the UKRI-funded DISHED initiative, will see the opening of two pilot public restaurants in Nottingham and Dundee by spring 2026. These restaurants aim to provide accessible, nutritious meals sourced locally, supporting sustainable farming practices and meeting the needs of diverse communities.
The project is a collaboration among the Institute of Development Studies, the University of Nottingham, Nourish Scotland, the University of Sussex, and local partners. It is designed to address the rising challenge of food inequality in the UK, in line with the NHS 10-year plan.
Although public restaurants are not a new concept, the revival of this model in the UK is unique, building on the success of similar initiatives in countries such as Brazil and Poland. These establishments, which will be co-designed with local residents, aim to provide affordable meals that promote healthy eating habits while fostering a sense of community.
Running for 14 months, the pilot will be evaluated for its effectiveness in improving public health and reducing food insecurity. Research will also examine the potential environmental and economic impacts of the model, aiming to offer insights into how public restaurants can contribute to better well-being and a more sustainable food system.
Through this initiative, the project aims to demonstrate the value of providing accessible, healthy food as a public service, comparable to libraries or parks, and the role it can play in enhancing community well-being and public health.
