Food has a unique way of uniting people, especially in a bustling city like Bengaluru where dining options are abundant. Food enthusiasts are finding joy in sharing meals with like-minded individuals and forming lasting friendships. The Dastarkhwan Club, a food community in the city, has been hosting lively meet-ups for food lovers to explore local eateries together. Co-founder Akash Devaraju emphasizes that the connection within the community extends beyond food, encompassing a diverse mix of interests rooted in a shared love for food. Tharini Thakur, another member of the community, notes that the group's focus is on understanding the origins and cultural influences of food, highlighting that the community has grown significantly to include over 60 people in a WhatsApp group and hundreds of pending RSVPs for their events. Akash recalls the club's humble beginnings, sparked by a shared Iftaar meal with friends that inspired them to continue gathering over food. Describing the name origin, Akash shares that "Dastarkhwan" was coined during one of their outings and has since become their identity. Member Abhishek Gupta emphasizes the personal and enriching experiences gained from participating in the community's gatherings, citing a recent opportunity to cook with a host from Kashmir as a valuable learning experience akin to exploring history through tastes."It's so interesting to see how each event is distinct, with a great deal of attention placed on curation. I appreciate having someone there from the specific culture to provide detailed explanations," Meghna shares. Embracing food together as a community involves various experiences:

- Rozana: Visit a restaurant where the owner shares detailed insights into the culinary history.

- Safarnama: Join a food walk group to explore food streets and indulge in various cuisines.

- Mehfil: Hosts from different regions welcome guests into their homes to offer a glimpse of their culture.