A food-lover is hoping to help revive an area's economy by staging a monthly pop-up restaurant. 

Ashley Musharafie, 26, of Beech Hall Road in Highams Park, launched her catering business 'Mush' two years ago after visiting a pop-up eatery at the Rose & Crown Pub in Walthamstow. 

She has previously run Lebanese-style nights in and around Chingford, but will be serving Thai food for the first time on Friday. 

Ms Musharafie said: "I am really passionate about food and learning different cultures and cuisines. 

"This is about doing something you love without the risk.

"There is very little choice when it comes to eating in Highams Park unless you like Indian in which case there are three places to eat."  

Her three-course meal at the newly-opened Function Room in The Avenue on Friday sold out within eight hours of her posting the event on social media. 

She added: "Part of the fun is trying something new that you wouldn't necessarily pick yourself and sharing a good atmosphere with like-minded strangers."

Manager Chris Herbert of The Function Room, hopes the monthly pop-up events will bring new faces to Highams Park.

"Ashley is offering something different to the run of the mill.

"A restaurant is a whole new ball game so what she is doing is really admirable.

"The best food comes out of small kitchens and this is a chance for me to embrace a new concept and help revive Highams Park’s lost identity, said Mr Herbert. 

He will transform the venue for one evening to accommodate the 40 diners and will feature live music and cocktails on the night. 

Ms Musharafie is hoping to offer a rustic Italian-themed night on Valentines Day.