Food has a unique way of uniting people, especially in a vibrant city like Bengaluru. With a plethora of dining options available, food enthusiasts are finding joy in coming together to share meals and create lasting friendships. The Dastarkhwan Club, a local food community, organizes lively meet-ups to explore the culinary scene in the city.

Co-founder of the community, Akash Devaraju, explains that the connection among members goes beyond just a shared love for food. According to Tharini Thakur, another member, the community is a blend of diverse interests centered around a passion for food. From exploring the origins of dishes to understanding their cultural significance, members are eager to delve deeper into the world of food.

The community initially started small but has now grown to include over 60 members in their WhatsApp group, with hundreds more expressing interest in joining. Akash recalls how the idea for the club emerged during a memorable Iftaar meal with friends, leading to the realization of how food can foster connections among people.

The name "Dastarkhwan" was inspired by a colleague's comment during one of their outings. For Akash and the members, the club offers a learning experience akin to delving into culinary history. Through personal sessions and hands-on experiences like cooking with locals, members like Abhishek Gupta have found a new perspective on food and community engagement."Incorporating their culture and unique way of doing things is important," he expresses. Meghna, another participant, agrees by saying, "I appreciate the individuality of each event and the effort put into its thoughtful curation. It's also great to have someone from the specific culture present to provide us with detailed insights." The essence of community dining lies in the following experiences: Rozana entails visiting a restaurant where the owner shares in-depth knowledge about the culinary heritage, Safarnama involves food walks exploring diverse cuisines in local food streets, and Mehfil showcases hospitality as people from various regions open their doors to share their cultural traditions.