Sri Lankan Pop-Up By Welcome Merchant

Overview

Rarely in Australia does a business pop-up that is truly unique. Welcome Merchant is one of them. Founded by Marjorie Tenchavez, Welcome Merchant was initially launched on Instagram to support and celebrate innovative Australian entrepreneurs — who also happen to come from refugee, asylum-seeking and migrant backgrounds. The not-for-profit has since expanded its critical role in elevating the voices of refugee and asylum seekers in the community — and offers one-of-a-kind dining experiences in collaboration with refugee chefs.

The Sydney-based company is heading to Melbourne for its next event, popping up at The Foreigner Brewing in Brunswick on Saturday, April 29. Serving up a Sri Lankan feast in partnership with chef Niro Vithyasekar, the menu includes kothu roti, a delectable stir fry of roti, egg, onions and chilli, chopped together on a hot griddle. Vadai (dal fritters), masala dosa (thin pancakes made from rice and lentils), and a range of addictive chutneys and sambals will also be on the menu.

Meanwhile, the Foreigner Brewing's regular rotation of craft beer will be on offer to quench any thirst, and entry is free.

"We love doing events in Melbourne, the community there is so supportive of the refugee chefs we work with. Niro's dream is to expand his market stall business, hopefully to buy a deep fryer. The Foreigner Brewing enabling Niro to host his market stall there again will bring his dream closer to becoming a reality." says Welcome Merchant Founder and Director Marjorie Tenchavez.

Images: supplied.