On 3 July 2020, the 50 Best Recovery Fund (formally the World’s 50 Best Recovery Community Interest Company) launched its Bid for Recovery online auction, offering food and travel enthusiasts the opportunity to bid for out-of-this-world gastronomic experiences with the world’s best chefs and bartenders. Proceeds from the auction are going to restaurants, bars and non-profit organisations supporting the sector, including our very own Eat Out Restaurant Relief Fund.

A donation of £31,500 (approx. R670,658), made on behalf of the 50 Best brand and its partners, will go to the Fund, following the success of the auction and its other fundraising activities.

“This could not have come at a better time, as our restaurant industry is on its hands and knees right now, requiring support from the government and patrons,” says Tarryn Corlett, Head of the Eat Out Restaurant Relief Fund. “And now the restaurants we support will be able to continue feeding the growing number of hungry people in our nation.”

The World’s 50 Best Recovery Community Interest Company (CIC) is making donations to 10 non-profit organisations around the world supporting the hospitality industry and its staff while feeding those most in need. A list of the charitable organisations and respective donations is available on their website. Additionally, over 50% of the proceeds from the 50 Best Recovery Fund are being distributed directly to struggling restaurants and bars through grants of up to US $5,000 per establishment.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the 50 Best brand and all of its partners involved for making such a significant contribution to the wellbeing of South Africa’s restaurant industry and our communities in need,” says Tarryn. “We encourage restaurants that are partaking in feeding projects to please apply for funding from us, so that we can offer you the necessary relief while you continue doing the inspiring work that you’re doing.”

Partners of the 50 Best for Recovery programme include: S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, American Express, Gin Mare, Flor de Caña, The Dalmore, illycaffè, Beronia, Huîtres Amélie, Estrella Damm, Nude and Cinco Jotas for the Restaurants programme; and Perrier, Michter’s, Nikka Whisky, Disaronno, The London Essence Co., Asahi Super Dry, Heering Cherry Liqueur, Altos Tequila, Ketel One, Campari, iichiko Saiten, Rémy Martin, Matusalem, Mancino Vermouth and Torres Brandy for the Bars programme.