What we’re about
My name is Chinglan. I love cooking and traveling, especially taking cooking classes and learning how to make local dishes in different countries. It’s my dream to create a dinner and cooking club to share this passion, and to meet like-minded friends along the way.
Upcoming Events
February (Chinese New Year - Chinglan)
March (Wine Pairing - Julie & Karolyn)
This group is for people who enjoy cooking, entertaining, and reciprocating. You MUST be willing to occasionally host or organize an outing—whether to a restaurant, park, winery, or similar venue—so that hosting responsibilities are shared among members. If you’re not interested in hosting or cooking your own food, this Meetup may not be for you.
Additionally, each guest is expected to contribute one homemade dish. Simply picking up something from a store does not reflect the spirit of the group.
Events will occur about once a month, each with a specific theme (e.g., Sunday Brunch, Texas BBQ, French Bistro Food, Italian Cafes, Thai Street Food, etc.).
The host will provide the main dish, while other members bring themed side dishes, appetizers, desserts, etc. The host also selects the date, time, and number of attendees. This is meant to be a fun, relaxed experience—not a cooking contest—though members are encouraged to stretch their cooking skills. It doesn’t have to be fancy!
Please post your planned contribution on the event page in a timely manner, as specified by the host for each event. Avoid duplicating dishes already posted, and please collaborate to ensure all courses (appetizers, mains, sides/salads, desserts) are well-covered.
No spamming, soliciting for business, or harassing others will be tolerated.
PLEASE NOTE: For the safety and comfort of all members, we require that everyone be fully transparent about their identity. To join, you must post a clear photo of yourself on your profile, and provide your full name, address, phone number, and email address upon acceptance into the group. This information will remain private in my personal files. Since events are hosted in our homes, it’s important that members feel secure. Members who repeatedly fail to attend events after RSVP’ing, or who do not participate, will be removed from the group.
I hope to create a fun, welcoming group for both singles and couples, filled with incredible cooks and great experiences.
PLEASE ALSO NOTE: This is an adults-only group. While we all love children, we kindly ask that they be left at home during our events.
(Adapted from "The 40+ Northern Virginia Roving Cooking Group," which has been successfully running for over 10 years. I trust its description has stood the test of time for a reason.)
Looking forward to seeing you!
Chinglan