Whole Food Nutrition

Our NEIGHBORHOOD GEMS series features emblematic meals from around the world. This series shines a light on local restaurants and is designed to bring together inquisitive foodies and dishes that are unique and oh so worth a trip on roads less traveled! Join us for authentic Indain dishes at ***Pink Saffron***! **From Northern Virginia Magazine** In his native India, Shashank Chatrapati grew up near a bakery. But his favorite treat sounds more like something out of his adopted home of Virginia: biscuits. "They were cooked in a wooden oven," Chatrapati recalls of the lightly sweet bread. As a chef with 15 years of experience, he and co-founder Ankush Kumar opened Pink Saffron in Westpost at National Landing in November 2025. When they did, Chatrapati tried the biscuit recipe he remembered, complete with nutty filling, but baked it in the restaurant's tandoor. The result is a heat blistered, oily delight that's a cousin to naan, but with a trademark twist. The goal at Pink Saffron is to serve cuisine that would play well in India. Spice levels are slightly higher than most area Indian restaurants, and dishes are mostly of the variety that diners won't find elsewhere in the United States. Chatrapati mentions Bengali dab chingari - a helping of tiger prawns cooked inside a coconut - as a favorite. Inside the tandoor, the fresh young coconut combines with mustard paste, creating a seafood stew. But event those who order familiar classics like butter chicken and biryani will be greeted with new flavors. "On our menu, it's called romesco butter chicken because of the high-quality tomatoes,"explains Chatrapati. He adds high-grade cashews and blends them with the signature Pink Saffron mix of the eponymous stamen and rosewater. "When you eat out butter chicken, it will give you this different taste from any other butter chicken you get anywhere else," says Chatrapati. Even the dessert menu includes several options diners won't likley see without a trip to India. The double ka meetha is a delight for fans of bread pudding; it's simultaneously comforting and novel. Descended from the royal cuisine of Indian Muslim rulers, the sweet features crispy ghee-fried bread in a floral condensed milk mixture called rabdi - which also serves as a base for black gulab jamun - in a startingly pretty treat. Whatever diners choose to order at the new restaurant, they can bet that saffron, rose and freshly ground spices will make it taste like nothing else! **Check out the menu** [here](https://thepinksaffron.com/food-menu) Separate checks will be arranged in advance. All diners will settle their own tabs. We ask that ALL folks honor their RSVP. If you are unable to attend after sending in a YES, please update your status so that others may join and help us support local businesses. In the event our group incurs a fee for no-shows / late cancellations, your ability to RSVP for future events will be restricted. Thank you in advance for your understanding. To enhance the opportunity for great conversation, we will continue to limit the group size. Please feel free to sign-up to meet us along with up to 2 friends. **\*\*** **WAITLIST:** Meetup does not allow waitlists for paid events. *If this event fills and you would like to be added to the waitlist, please send a note to the host through the Meetup app. **\*\**** In the future, we will vary the days of the week and the types of restaurants to keep events interesting. PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU ARE COMMITTED TO GO WHEN YOU RSVP FOR THIS EVENT. Feel free to make suggestions for future meet locations. \*\* The small non-refundable registration fee helps us share the cost associated with the Meet-Up platform ($360/yr) and reduces the likelihood of no-shows, allowing us to better plan our events and accommodate all participants. Meetup charges $0.51 and Paypal charges $0.53 on the $2 registration fee. Thanks in advance for your understanding!\*\* If you are unable to join us in April, we hope you'll stay interested and join us for a meal in the future. Looking forward to catching up with you for a delightful dinner at Pink Saffron!

This educational session explores essential strategies for managing and preventing hypertension. Participants will learn about risk factors, lifestyle modifications, and the impact of nutrition and exercise on blood pressure control. The workshop provides practical tools for maintaining heart health and reducing the likelihood of developing hypertension, empowering attendees to take charge of their well-being. Stay after the session for a free health screening! Ages 18 & up; FREE. **Kentland Community Center** **[Register Here](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=WT6C165L0Q003M48173F1T4A5V404Z4Y006R4I42411J6V5S5W6J6J6Y4V4Q51015G4F553Z0J5T4K6K4A1K4X5X6P5V6X5M5R6G520E4O6251686K5T555A5B6O6T4O53&keyword=SPD-SPEC-GA-20260423&keywordoption=Match+One&dayoption=All&beginyear=&location=&display=Detail&module=global&multiselectlist_value=&globalwebsearch_buttonsearch=yes)** For fastest response to any questions, or for more information, please contact Health and Wellness directly via email [wellness@pgparks.com](wellness@pgparks.com)

This is a drop-in event, please note: receiving a screening is not guaranteed. Screenings will be provided as time and resources allow. Take charge of your health! Join us for a FREE comprehensive health screening with Luminis Health, where you can get your blood pressure, glucose, A1C, and cholesterol levels checked. You will get all the results of your screening the same day. Based on the screening results, you will be provided educational resources to help improve your health. Ages 18 & up; FREE. **Kentland Community Center** For fastest response to any questions, or for more information, please contact Health and Wellness directly via email [wellness@pgparks.com](wellness@pgparks.com)

An evening of wit, wine, and a little friendly competition. Join us for **Trivia Night at Divino**, where Northern Italian flavors set the stage for a lively night of questions, laughter, and prizes. Bring your sharpest friends, enjoy housemade pasta and curated wines, and see who leaves crowned champion. FREE PARKING GARAGE

Experience the ultimate relaxation with our 60-minute Yin & Restorative Yoga fusion class. This session combines the deep, meditative stretches of Yin Yoga with the soothing, supportive postures of Restorative Yoga. During this class, you'll explore longer-held poses designed to release tension from deep within the muscles and connective tissues, promoting flexibility and calm. The Restorative elements enhance relaxation by incorporating props to fully support your body in gentle, nurturing positions, allowing for complete surrender and rejuvenation. This practice is ideal for anyone seeking profound relaxation, stress relief, and a sense of inner peace. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or new to these styles, join us for an hour of blissful tranquility and restoration. **The session is offered InStudio only. Sign up at www.piesfitnessyoga.com required at least two hours before class begins.** The address is 1322 Prince St Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

Join Social Sips & Bites for our Thursday Happy Hour. Great drinks, easy conversation, new faces, familiar faces, and that signature SSB energy that turns a simple night out into something memorable. https://www.capitalonecenter.com/the-perch

Please be sure to RSVP here! https://stampede.proanimal.org/events Join your fellow animal lovers and DC Animal Protection to discuss what’s happening in the animal advocacy scene in DC! This series is a weekly meetup, with guest speakers from all of the major animals rights orgs. We’ll host non-profits such as Pro-Animal Future, International Council for Animal Welfare, DC Voters for Animals, The Humane League, Mercy for Animals and Direct Action Everywhere as well as local grassroots groups like the DC Coalition Against Foie Gras and sanctuaries. We’ll also have special sessions related to health, nutrition and mindfulness! We encourage anyone who is interested in helping animals to attend- no need to be vegan! Come learn about our rich variety of local activism. With protests, outreach, wheat-pasting, signature collecting, leafletting, lobbying, tabling etc. there’s something to match everyone’s comfort level and skill set. Coffee, bagels and community will be provided! Feel free to bring any extra treats to share (no animal products please.) Hope to see you soon! :) Note: Unfortunately, animals are not allowed at our venue. Please leave your furry friends at home.

Join us for our weekly riichi mahjong meetup! It is highly encouraged to make a purchase of food or drink at the Whole Foods while playing there. We play on the second floor of the Whole Foods in a bar area called The High Point, There is parking for $5 on the weekends at The Boro Garage B. Do not use the whole foods parking lot since it gets up to $25.

Please join us for the first ride of 2026 from Bethesda to Hains Point and back. We will be starting from the [Park and Ride for Capital Crescent](https://maps.app.goo.gl/BKo6KKeexQPENXHEA) trail in Bethesda. The meeting spot provides ample free car parking, and also it is convenient to get to from Bethesda Metro. Going to Georgetown will be a piece of cake (it is downhill). Coming back we will be digesting the cakes we eat. Before signing up, please make sure you will be able to sustain at least 10 mph average speed for this lengthy ride. Meeting point: [Park and Ride for CC Trail](https://maps.app.goo.gl/q8icfVLC4mdfagQj6) Date: Saturday, April 25 9:00am Route: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/njF8xXDfrH8kvVP96](https://maps.app.goo.gl/njF8xXDfrH8kvVP96) Length: 24 miles Difficulty level: strenuous (due to distance) Elevation change: 420 ft up & down Time: \~3 hours at moderate pace Pace: moderate \~10 mph Biking surface: paved Route type: mostly paved trails, some roads and sidewalks Metro accessible: yes (with an additional 1 mile of ride) Snack spot: we will be stopping in Georgetown for a snack. Multiple vegetarian options available: \- Chaia Tacos \- South Block Food/Water: Bring your own vegan snacks and (non-alcoholic) beverage to enjoy. Please carry plenty of water! Weather: we will not be riding in rain or windy conditions so stay tuned for Comments on this page. *For important updates, regularly monitor the "Comments" section on this page (below).* ***Don't be a no show! If your plans change, update your RSVP.*** *Please also view and abide by the RULES listed below* RULES * Pets are not allowed * Use of intoxicants such as alcohol, cigarettes and/or illegal substances is banned during this event. * Practice safe biking habits including: * Wearing a bike helmet * Keeping safe distance between each other (bikes don't have brake lights and tailgating can easily result in crashes) * Avoid side by side riding unless the road gives us ample opportunity **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are so glad to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we enjoy seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](http://vsdc.org/) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The VSDC membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Become a member of VSDC](https://vsdc.org/membership/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

◦Join us for a laid-back Sunday Brunch. The Brunch is All-You-Can-Eat buffet and a bottle of Champagne (750 ml) with Orange Juice. You make your own mimosa. Just only for $ 35.00 per person without tax & gratuity! It includes French toast, pancakes, waffles, omelettes made to order, Pasta, Salads, Roast Beef, Pork Ribs, oyster bar, cheese bar and Salmon, plenty of fresh fruit, yogurt, cakes, cookies, and pudding....mmmm! After brunch, we mingle and socialize. Closest Metro Station is Clarendon. Please take into account Metro's Weekend Track Work & Service Adjustments. Check it on http://www.wmata.com/ and plan accordingly.

Join us for a fun afternoon of games at St. Veg! The hosts will bring a few different games, but if you have any you'd like to bring, please feel free to!

This is an announcement for an event happening in DC. This event does not have an actual host. We hope you will attend and/or support this vegan lead initiative put on by friends of Rockville Vegans. Event Description: The Animals Lawsuit Against Humanity is an ancient animal rights fable that will be performed / read during DC Climate Week. For details please register at [https://luma.com/dzy3l4fl](https://luma.com/dzy3l4fl?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e0_tv4&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExY3J4Qk1JclBuNk54SFExVnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6Z69y823leLnAxGFleK8KNDQjkKhAC0XlJwQ1nZI2hZptFCGv-J57GCB-XVg_aem_QOLOKj3wpiqlHRimgIZSnw) .

Families with teens &/tweens - bring a snack & come play/hang out! The Teen/Tween potluck meetup is normally monthly. We meet for eating, playing, conversation... I'm mom to 11 & 15 year olds. We've been vegan since 2012. This meetup is for vegan or vegan-curious youth & their families. All are welcome. If your family has a food allergy, please let me know & I'll share with the group. Make or buy vegan food to share and hang out/play. Bring: -vegan snack to share -your own drink -outdoor games/balls -chairs/blanket Please make sure the snack you bring to share is vegan. I'll provide paper towels. There is a basketball court, a small playground and a field. We'll have some frisbees. Please attend if your child is age 10 or older. Please note that there are no restroom facilities in the park. There is a church across the street. Turn into the parking lot between the small, white, Waves of Glory Church & the Norbeck-Muncaster Park sign. Event will be held in all weather. In case of inclement weather, we will hold the event at our home, 1 mile away, on our large covered patio.

Get ready for a fun night with amazing food, great energy, and even better company! 🥰✨ 🍽️ Portia’s Café — 6:30PM 🛼 Skate Zone 71 — 8:30PM Come join us for delicious vegan food and/or roller skating — it’s totally up to you! Whether you come for the food, the skating, or both… you’re in for a great time 💗 📍 Portia’s Café 4424 Indianola Ave Columbus, OH 43214 📍 Skate Zone 71 4900 Evanswood Dr Columbus, OH 43229

[The Kind Exchange](https://www.facebook.com/events/3087825058070662/) A gathering to share, swap, and connect with like-minded people who care about plant-based living, sustainability, and mindful choices. This is more than a swap — it’s a space to circulate what we already have and meet others in the community. Bring any of the following to share: * **Vegan-related books** (cookbooks, sustainability, mindful living, etc.) * **Plants or cuttings** (optional) Swap for something new-to-you from others. *The more you bring, the more there is to exchange!* Please RSVP so we can plan accordingly- [https://form.jotform.com/260975490897073](https://form.jotform.com/260975490897073?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e0_tv4&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVGxJeFRub0FQNmhUcmF3VnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4u9YhVWcSkITKfEn_NajeEUIyxFrXbcaG0HjFHoQn-MCxKlhGlUpFAnsMIzw_aem_vo9QISntFpTtGskmWaVEkQ) Unclaimed books/plants at the end of the event will be donated.

**Pickleball + coffee + community 🌱** **Let’s kick things off with pickleball at Park of Roses, then join us at Blackend Coffee to unwind and connect.** **Pickleball 🏓 10:30am-12:30pm** **Blackend Coffee ☕️ 🌯 1-3pm** **All levels welcome!** **Can’t waitt to see everyone!** **📍 Park of Roses** **3901 N High St** **Columbus, OH 43214** **📍Blackend Coffee** **2619 N High St** **Columbus, OH 43202**

Walk for Children - 2026 Save Soil Walkathon in Columbus 🌍 Over 52% of the world soil is degraded and scientists warn we may have only a few decades of fertile soil left. As Sadhguru shares, soil is a living system—and when it degrades, our food, health, and future are at risk. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyT-6qiubd0 🚶‍♂️🌎This Earth Day, Join the Walk for Children-2026 SaveSoil 5K Walkathon here in Columbus and help raise awareness about soil for the future of our children! Every step you take helps: ✔️ 1. Raise awareness in your communities about protecting and restoring soil. ✔️ 2. Supports sustainable food systems. ✔️ 3. Helps secure our children’s future. 📅 Date: April 26, 2026 📍 Location: Scioto Audubon Metro Park Check-in address 400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215 ⏰ Time: 8:30 a.m. check-in event starts at 9:30 a.m. 👉 Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/walk-for-children-2026-save-soil-walkathon-in-columbus-registration-1986596534713?aff=oddtdtcreator 👉🏼Free and Open to All. Share this message and bring your neighbours, friends & family along to celebrate our planet! Let’s make it happen!

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Free Communal Garden Class Series GROWING MUSHROOMS In this class, we will discuss how to raise mushrooms on logs outdoors as a way to raise food in parts of your yard that are usually too shady to grow vegetables or other crops. We will discuss what mushroom species can be cultivated, what tree species they can grow on, and demonstrate how to prepare and inoculate the logs. By following these steps, you can have your own bountiful mushroom harvest! APRIL 27 | 6:00-7:30 PM | WELLS BARN 1851 E BROAD ST, COLUMBUS, OH 43205 INSTRUCTOR: MARC AMANTE Mare Amante is an Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Educator with Central State University who is also currently serving as CSU Extension's Agriculture and Natural Resources Interim Program Leader. He has worked on and managed diversified vegetable farms across the Midwest and currently owns and operates an urban farm here in Ohio where he raises microgreens, vegetables, raspberries, and log-grown mushrooms for sale to local markets and restaurants. Registerefor free here https://www.fpconservatory.org/events/cg-growing-mushrooms/

Watch movie trailer here: https://www.seedsthefilm.com/ SEEDS Documentary and Community Conversation Friday, April 24 | 5-9pm Locatjon: Ohio Dominican University | Matesich Theater in Erskine Hall 1216 Sunbury Rd Room 108, Columbus, OH 43219 Through dialogue and film, spend an evening explore the lives of Black generational farmers, the unjust history of land ownership, and local Black farmers creating new legacies today. Seeds Documentary and Community Conversation is the second event in Shepherd’s Corner Land Justice Series, where we welcome BIPOC artists, filmmakers, writers, and growers to teach us, through intentional programming, what it means to be on and part of the land. This event is sponsored with Ohio Dominican University and Ohio Dominican University’s Black Student Union. Click here to access a flyer to help spread the word about SEEDS Documentary and Community Conversation **ABOUT Seeds** Seeds is Director Brittany Shyne’s Sundance-winning lyrical documentary of Black farmers, legacy, and land. “Interweaving the stories of three Black generational farmers to create a collective and intimate portrait of farming today, Seeds is a moving and powerful exploration of their lives, joys and struggles as well as the fragility of legacy and owning land.” Seedsthefilm.com **PANEL DISCUSSION: LOCAL BLACK FARMERS CREATING NEW LEGACIES** * Moderator Holly Moten Fidler, M.A. in Social Justice & Public Theology (MASJ/MAPT) student at the Methodist Theological School in Ohio (MTSO) and Seminary Hill Farm worker * Julialynne Walker, Food Sovereignty Advocate and Market Manager Bronzeville Growers Market * Minister Aaron Hopkins, Visionary Farmer Planner of South Side Family Farms and Executive Director of ICANDO Community Development * Jada Terry, Founder of Mizizi Farm and Fresh Roots 614 SCHEDULE * 5 pm: Doors Open + Refreshments served. Informal Meet and Greet with Panelists and Guests * 6 pm: Opening + Panel Discussion * 7 pm: SEEDS Screening Free Admission. Registration Required. Register for free here: https://shepherdscorner.org/seeds/