Liberal Democrats invite Japanese ambassador to try pie and mash in Southwark

Southwark Liberal Democrats have formally invited the Japanese ambassador to Britain - his excellency Hiroshi Suzuki - to Southwark to sample traditional pie and mash – in the borough where the first pie and mash shop is said to have opened. 

Mr Suzuki had previously gone viral for his appreciation of scouse stew in Liverpool, downing a pint of Boddington’s in Manchester, and celebrating St David’s day by posting a video of himself eating Welsh cakes.  

Cllr Victor Chamberlain took to social media to promote the invitation, showcasing the iconic M.Manze pie and mash shop on Tower Bridge Road – one of the oldest in London. There has been a pie and mash shop on that site since 1892, and reports suggest that the very first pie and mash shop was opened nearby on Union Street in 1844.

Bermondsey is already known for its Japanese associations – hosting annual Okinawa Day celebrations in the Bermondsey Blue market.  

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Group Leader Cllr Victor Chamberlain said:  

“It’s been fantastic to see the ambassador enjoy so many iconic local cuisines from across the country. We’re really proud of our food history here in Southwark, and would be delighted to host his excellency here to showcase the best of the best – proper pie and mash with liquor! 

We hope that Mr Suzuki accepts this invitation, so we can further deepen mutual relations between Southwark and Japan”