In Bengaluru, food has a special way of uniting people, especially among foodies who have an abundance of dining options. The Dastarkhwan Club, a local food community, brings together like-minded individuals to share meals, forge friendships, and explore the diverse culinary scene in the city. Co-founder Akash Devaraju emphasizes that the bond formed over food extends beyond just culinary preferences, representing a mix of various interests all centered around a shared love for food. Tharini Thakur, another member, highlights the community's curiosity about the origins and cultural significance of different foods, emphasizing that the act of dining together can create strong connections among people. What began as a small group has now grown to include over 60 members in a WhatsApp group, with hundreds more expressing interest in joining. The founders recall the origins of the club during an Iftaar meal excursion that sparked a sense of synergy and connection, leading to the establishment of regular meet-ups. The name "Dastarkhwan" was inspired by one of their outings, symbolizing the communal aspect of dining together. Participant Abhishek Gupta appreciates the personal and insightful experiences gained through the community gatherings, describing them as opportunities to share not just meals but also a taste of history and diverse cultural perspectives."According to him, immersing oneself in their culture and unique practices is key," says one member named Meghna. "I appreciate the effort put into curating each event and having someone from the culture present to provide in-depth explanations," she adds. Community dining experiences include Rozana, where restaurant owners share the history of their cuisine, Safarnama food walks exploring local food streets, and Mehfil gatherings where hosts welcome guests to experience their culture.