The Design Quality Framework engagement project involved thousands of Nottingham citizens, including community groups, businesses and other agencies. Social Eating - were event participants prepare and share a meal together - was implemented as a tool to collect data and to generate and strengthen social networks. Local growing networks provided the produce and catered for informal meals that helped to generate a relaxed and communal atmosphere where participants felt confident and at ease to discuss potentially sensitive issues. Feedback from these sessions repeatedly reflected the success of this approach. Participants said that sharing a table with food was a powerful way to bring people together.