Scene inside the first British Restaurant, one of a number of communal restaurants
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Scene inside the first British Restaurant, one of a number of communal restaurants
Scene inside the first British Restaurant, one of a number of communal restaurants during the Second World War providing a cooked meal, with dessert and a cup of tea, for around the cost of 1s.2d. While operated on a canteen basis, meals were eaten at a table and allowed people, including war workers and those who had bombed out of their homes or might have difficulty cooking or making a packed lunch at home, a nutritious and affordable meal, which could be eaten in addition to wartime rations. Date: 1946
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Media ID 19806107
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Communal Eating Jan20 Ministry Rationing Restaurant
EDITORS COMMENTS
Scene inside the First British Restaurant: A Wartime Haven of Affordability and Nourishment Amid the harsh realities of World War II, the First British Restaurant stood as a beacon of hope and sustenance for the weary and the hungry. Established in the aftermath of the conflict, this communal dining facility was one of numerous such establishments that aimed to provide a cooked meal, complete with dessert and a cup of tea, for around 1 shilling and 2 pence (1s.2d). This was a significant sum during those times, offering an affordable alternative to the rationed meals that were the norm during the war. The photograph captures the warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant, with its long tables set for communal dining. War workers and those who had been displaced from their homes due to bombings found solace in this shared space. For some, the British Restaurant offered a nutritious meal that could supplement their meager rations, while for others, it provided an opportunity to enjoy a hot, home-cooked meal away from the rigors of wartime life. The Ministry of Food oversaw the operation of these restaurants, ensuring that the meals served were both affordable and nourishing. Despite being run on a canteen basis, diners were still able to sit down at a table and enjoy their meals in a more formal setting, providing a sense of normalcy amid the chaos of the war. This image, taken in 1946, serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness of the British people during World War II. It also highlights the importance of communal spaces and shared experiences, which continue to be relevant in our modern-day lives.
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