Chocoholics head for London
A week-long celebration of chocolate kicks off on 13 October as the capital indulges itself in London Chocolate Week. Tastings and demonstrations have been organised by various chocolate shops, including Fortnum & Mason and Charbonnel et Walker. Some restaurants and hotels are hosting themed events, such as a five-course chocolate dinner at Mju in Sloane Street and a chocolate brunch and screening of the film Chocolat at the Charlotte Street hotel in the West End. For more information see www.chocolateweek.co.uk.
The best of the North-west
More than 50 producers of speciality food in the North-west will be exhibiting their wares at the North West Food Lovers' Festival on 1-2 November. Cheese, preserves, hand-cured bacon and slow-reared meats will be among the produce available at the event in Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire, organised by North West Fine Foods. More information at www.foodloversfestival.co.uk or call 01695 554918.
Oxford Wine and Food Festival
Masterclasses on olive oil, spices, cheese, chocolate and wine make up the programme of the first Oxford Wine and Food Festival taking place at the city's Said Business School on 14-15 November. A joint class with wine expert Jancis Robinson and the Financial Times's Nick Lander will explore the roles of the restaurant and wine critic. For more information go to www.owff.co.uk or call 01865 554027.
Free guide on seafood
A seafood guide designed as a reference tool for the industry has been compiled by seafood supplier M&J Seafood, in association with Seafish and the Craft Guild of Chefs, in time for Seafood Week (3-10 October). For a free copy send your name, establishment, address and telephone number to marketing@mjseafoods.co.uk or by fax to 01296 399583.