Who wouldn't want a little more sunshine at their Christmas party - especially with a side of Mediterranean hospitality? HERA offers a festive celebration with a distinctly Greek twist. Located in Stratford, HERA combines contemporary design with the warmth and generosity that Greek dining is known for, creating a setting that feels perfectly suited to bringing people together at the end of the year.
Named after Hera, the Greek goddess associated with family, celebration and togetherness, the restaurant was created with communal dining in mind. Inside the restaurant floor-to-ceiling windows flood the dining room with natural light, while the open kitchen and stylish cocktail bar create an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and relaxed. The spacious layout makes it well suited to group celebrations, offering plenty of room for guests to settle in and enjoy an evening together. Hire the full venue for up to 100, or book a semi-private space for festive dinners of up to 40.
The menu draws inspiration from the diverse culinary traditions of Greece, combining classic ingredients with modern techniques. To start, dishes such as the halloumi and grilled peach with honey and balsamic dressing, seabass carpaccio with lemon and fennel, and yellowfin tuna with mandarin ponzu offer fresh and vibrant flavours.
For mains, guests can choose from slow-cooked lamb shoulder with braised chickpeas and spinach, grilled baby chicken marinated with herbs and yoghurt, or herb crusted cod served with new potatoes and lemon. Pasta dishes such as black seafood tagliolini and prawn spaghetti add further variety, while the moussaka brings a comforting take on one of Greece's most beloved classics. Sides of roasted potatoes with oregano oil and garlic mushrooms complete the feast.
But, it's not all about food. HERA also has a gorgeous cocktail bar that's know for its creative menu. Signatures include the Muses Kiss which brings together rum, coconut, chocolate bitters, pineapple and condensed milk, inspired by the poetic storytellers themselves. While the Helen of Spice, which is of course named after Helen of Troy, offers a punch with tequila, chilli mix, mango and agave.