Cooking

Casual chess in a cozy French bar in Blackheath, open to all levels. I only have one chessboard, so feel free to bring your own.

London's Friendly Book Club's pick for February is **The Bandit Queens** by **Parini Shroff**. Geeta's no-good husband disappeared five years ago. She didn't kill him, but everyone thinks she did--no matter how much she protests. But she soon discovers that being known as a "self-made" widow has some surprising perks. No one messes with her, no one threatens her, and no one tries to control (ahem, *marry*) her. It's even been good for her business; no one wants to risk getting on her bad side by *not* buying her jewelry. Freedom must look good on Geeta, because other women in the village have started asking for her help to get rid of their own no-good husbands...but not all of them are asking nicely. Now that Geeta's fearsome reputation has become a double-edged sword, she must decide how far to go to protect it, along with the life she's built. Because even the best-laid plans of would-be widows tend to go awry. Please only RSVP if you think you'll be able to make this event. **We host three sessions per book, you only need to attend one.** Everyone is welcome! Grab your copy and join us for a relaxed and engaging discussion.

**Do you enjoy discussing life's big questions?** Then this group is for you! Open for three weeks only. **Christianity explored** is an informal and relaxed three-week discussion group. We will read a short book (21 pages) from the famous book, the Bible and have discussions. It's for anyone who wants to think about the meaning of life. **If you are open-minded and want to discuss life questions from a new perspective, then come join us!** Come ready to listen, ask, laugh and enjoy socialising and chatting in a relaxed environment at our beautiful venue free of charge. No knowledge of Christianity or the bible is required to attend. **You can ask any questions**, or simply sit and listen. You will not be asked to read, pray or speak. Join us if you would like to meet others and be part of this three-week reading group. Dates: Every Tuesday for three weeks Venue: Inspire St James Church, EC1R 0EA \*\*FREE DINNER provided from the lovely Noodle Brat restaurant \*\* Look forward to see you!

Area X has been cut off from the rest of the world for decades. Nature has reclaimed the last vestiges of human civilization. The first expedition returned with reports of a pristine, Edenic landscape; the second expedition ended in mass suicide, the third in a hail of gunfire as its members turned on one another. The members of the eleventh expedition returned as shadows of their former selves, and within weeks, all had died of cancer. In Annihilation, we join the twelfth expedition. The group is made up of four women: an anthropologist; a surveyor; a psychologist, the de facto leader; and our narrator, a biologist. Their mission is to map the terrain, record all observations of their surroundings and of one another, and, above all, avoid being contaminated by Area X itself. They arrive expecting the unexpected, and Area X delivers—but it’s the surprises that came across the border with them and the secrets the expedition members are keeping from one another that change everything. Available from all good libraries and book shops. You don't have to have read it to join us - but it'll probably help. We will be meeting in The Ludski Bar in the Rio Cinema. [https://www.riocinema.org.uk/your-visit/](https://www.riocinema.org.uk/your-visit/) You are welcome to bring outside food in with you but please buy your drinks from inside the cinema. Thank you. We hope to see you there. ... To join the Brain Worms WhatsApp Group please click here: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EvFibn1d6AsEwdVGmwkhko](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EvFibn1d6AsEwdVGmwkhko) (in order to stop spam bots this will take you to a Waiting Room. Once in please write your name and we will join you to the main chat). Meetup charges subscription fees. If you would like to make a donation please click here: [https://paypal.me/philosophycollective](https://paypal.me/philosophycollective)

**RSVP TO ATTEND THIS EVENT. ALL TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE TO ATTEND THIS EVENT..** **Welcome to Socialite Connections – Speed Networking for Film, TV, Music, and Media** Join us for an exclusive **Speed Networking for Film, TV, Music and Media**. Connect with creative professionals looking to accelerate their connections and grow their businesses. Imagine meeting and connecting with a room full of like-minded creative professionals in a fun and time efficient manner. You must book a ticket via the link: https://fatso.ma/3dD7 Book here via: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/speed-networking-for-film-tv-music-and-media-at-temper-city-tickets-1976448981107?aff=oddtdtcreator **We start the event at 6.00pm with a warm welcome.** Speed Networking is a dynamic and efficient way to connect with professionals across various creative industries. Break out of your networking comfort zone and say goodbye to missed opportunities with this structured format. We have hired the mezzanie room upstairs with own bar.. **Temper City -** Temper City is hidden away, moments from Bank, Moorgate and Liverpool Street Stations, serving the best steak in the Square Mile. Home to the biggest smoker in the temper family and one of the world's biggest restaurant fire-pits. Punchy wine list and choice of tequila and mezcal-focused cocktails available both in the restaurant and out on the terrace. **Event Schedule** **18:00 – 20:30 \| Welcome to the event** where your name will be checked off the guest list, you will be given a name badge and you will be introduced to each other. **19:00 – 20:00 \| Speed Networking Event Starts:** Take part in an exciting speed networking event focused on the film, TV, music, and media industries. This fast-paced environment is designed to help you make valuable connections, exchange ideas, and explore new opportunities in a relaxed environment. **20:00 \- 20:30 \| Network & chill:** It will be a free form event where guests can mingle amongst each other in a relaxed environment, when the speed networking are finished. **Why Attend?** Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to expand your network and forge valuable connections on a 1-2-1 basis. With just 3 minutes per attendee, you'll get the opportunity to speak to everyone attending in a timed and structured format. Are you a filmmaker, musician, media professional, or creative entrepreneur looking to expand your network and accelerate your career? This is your ultimate chance to connect, collaborate, and create magic in just one extraordinary night! **Who Should Attend?** Connect with Film, TV, Music and Media Professionals in a relaxed setting. **Producers, Directors, Artists & Actors, Musicians & Screenwriters, Media Lawyers, Photographers & Videographers, Investors, Anyone interested in Film, Media, TV, and Music Industry.** **Tickets are limited to just 40 attendees.** We like to make sure everyone gets the opportunity to talk to each other. You must book a ticket via the link: https://fatso.ma/3dD7 Book here via: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/speed-networking-for-film-tv-music-and-media-at-temper-city-tickets-1976448981107?aff=oddtdtcreator You are invited to join the dedicated Whatsapp group for the event and start networking before the actual event. Register now to secure your spot and be part of this transformative networking experience! **Tickets need to be bought online in advance to attend this event. Tickets are not available at the door.** **Refund policy: There is no refund at this event. Your ticket can be reassigned to another person of your choice.**

Chef Akbar will teach delicious, authentic Tajik dishes followed by a sit-down meal. Warm and easy, like being with family! Course fee (£54.88). **ABOUT THE CUISINE** Tajik cuisine, with its roots in the ancient Silk Road city of Samarkand, is a beautiful blend of flavours and traditions from across Central Asia. Influenced by Persian, Turkish, and Russian cooking, it celebrates fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and gentle spices. From fragrant rice dishes like Palav to soft, hand-folded dumplings and vibrant salads, every meal is a reflection of generosity, hospitality, and the joy of sharing food together. Tajik cooking is colourful, comforting, and deeply tied to family and community—food made to be enjoyed with love. **ON THE MENU (subject to change):** * **Shee** \(Lamb Broth with Pickled Sorrel and Root Vegetables\) \| Meat \(Lamb\)*; Milk* * **Tuy Kabob** \(Wedding Kebab\) \| Meat \(Lamb\); *None* * **Moshkichiri** \(Mung Bean and Rice with Yoghurt and Onions\) \| Vegetarian; *Milk* * **Bichak-i Kadugi** \(Butternut Squash\-filled Pastries\) \| Vegetarian; *Eggs, Gluten (Wheat), Milk* * **Chalpak** \(Semolina Flatbread\) \| Vegan; *Gluten (Wheat)* * **Salati Bahor** \(Spring Salad\) \| Vegetarian; *Milk, Mustard* This menu contains meat (**lamb**). Allergens include: ***eggs, gluten, milk, mustard.*** Further details and reservation link: [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/tajik-cookery-class-with-akbar-london-pop-up-tickets-1978959356708](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/tajik-cookery-class-with-akbar-london-pop-up-tickets-1978959356708) Do you speak French and would like to be part of a reading group and other events in French? [https://www.meetup.com/gaia-livres/](https://www.meetup.com/The-London-French-Club/) Do you speak Spanish and would like to be part of a reading group in Spanish? [https://www.meetup.com/gaia-libros/](https://www.meetup.com/London-Spanish-Club/) Or join my eclectic English book club: [https://www.meetup.com/gaia-books](https://www.meetup.com/gaia-libros/) instagram: @persian_culture_ -Whatsapp group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2)

Have you ever wanted to explore and savour as many food places within an event? If so, this may be the right one for you. Welcome to the BAKERY Crawl where you have the opportunity to explore and savour the food from some of the places we may visit. 
With this particular event, we will be exploring an array of bakeries that revolves around Europe. We will also be savouring what they may deliver. Based on research and experience, the places we are to visit have some unique delicacies which has brought joy to the world. Here are the Bakeries we’ll be visiting: * Arome Bakery (French) * Bagariet (Swedish) * Ole and Steen (Danish) So the plan is extremely simple. We’re to visit each food place and savour their unique delicacies hence the term ‘Bakery crawl’. This is the opportunity to explore the Food places, eat, drink, make new friends but most importantly, have an enjoyable yet memorable experience. You don’t have to but if you enjoyed the event and if you want, I’m more than happy to accept optional donations. Even if you donate £1, it helps not only myself but you guys too by unlocking pathways for even more potential events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy 
WHAT - Bakery Crawl
WHERE - Covent Garden/Leicester Square
WHEN - 2pm - 4pm
MEETING POINT - Outside Covent Garden station
NEAREST STATION - Covent Garden Station
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk.
 Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

WhatsApp Follow this link to join my WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/IE0zv2LWJIZExZInB7084C?mode=gi_t Whether you’re looking for a private dining for a private celebration your Birthday with family and friends, an important business meeting, a working lunch, or the opportunity to impress your clients over dinner. We can offer our clients access to discreet private venue or if you prefer something semi-private, we can offer our mezzanine level space where you can enjoy the buzz of the restaurant while maintaining a level of privacy. **30 pounds per person** Sharing Starters A selection to share, including: Charcuterie and cheese boards Arancini Bruschetta with cherry tomatoes Parmigiana di melanzane Bread basket Marinated olives Main Course Choose one: Spaghetti Carbonara Tagliatelle al Ragù (Bolognese) Classic Lasagna - beef ragù and béchamel Vegetarian Lasagna - basil pesto, goat cheese, and béchamel Cannelloni al Forno - stuffed pasta with beef ragù Gnocchi alla Sorrentina - tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil Polpette al Sugo - meatballs in tomato sauce Chicken Milanese - breaded chicken cutlet Dessert Choose one: Panna Cotta - chocolate or mixed berries Tiramisù Babà

Back to Naguib ❤️ We are reading Palace Walk, the first novel in Naguib Mahfouz’s Cairo Trilogy, offers a richly detailed portrait of family life in early twentieth-century Cairo. Centered on the authoritarian figure of al-Sayyid Ahmad and the inner lives of his wife and children, the novel examines power, repression, gender, faith, and the tension between tradition and modernity against the backdrop of Egypt’s political awakening. بين القصرين، الرواية الأولى في ثلاثية القاهرة لنجيب محفوظ، تقدم تصويرًا ثريًا ودقيقًا للحياة الأسرية في القاهرة في مطلع القرن العشرين. وتتمحور الرواية حول شخصية السيد أحمد عبد الجواد السلطوية، والعوالم الداخلية لزوجته وأبنائه، حيث تتناول قضايا السلطة والقمع والهوية والإيمان، والتوتر بين التقاليد والحداثة، على خلفية اليقظة السياسية في مصر. We will meet on the 14th of February from 2-4 pm to discuss it ( you still have the rest of ther day for Valentine celebrations 😁). Location TBD

**IMPORTANT:** To RSVP you will need to register on the **WeMeet app** [here.](https://www.weroad.com/wemeet/events/city-of-westminster/chinatown-dinner-new-friends-flavours-of-china-a5958433-5a64-43f7-9132-b2aded2e1071) **An adventurous dinner where you discover new flavours and new people at the same table.** **How does it work?** **🗓️** RSVP to secure your spot 📍 Dinner location revealed via WeMeet app notifications **24 hours before** ✔️**Confirm your spot** 18 hours before so others know who to expect Let the others know where you are when the event starts through our check in process 💰 Expect to spend between £20–30 👤 Virtual host: Shape your evening however you want 📅**Meet the group** at your WeMeet table **What to expect:** **🍣 Discover new cuisine:** This time we’re exploring Italian food, a place we fell in love with at first bite! **🤝 Meet new people:** Relaxed, no-pressure social dining where spontaneous connections happen naturally. **✨ Memorable evening:** Share stories, laughs, and a great meal with fellow adventurers. Limited spots - book yours and get ready to share more than just a meal!

Social Sips & Bites — DC Rockers Winter 2026 Showcase Social Sips & Bites friends, we’re heading to the DC Rockers Winter 2026 Showcase- an all-ages, afternoon-to-night celebration of Rock ’n’ Roll through the decades. Five bands. Five decades. One epic day. Each band performs a full 1-hour tribute set, so come early, stay late, or drop in anytime. Lineup & set times • 2:00 PM – Barco Loungers • 3:30 PM – The Redactions • 5:00 PM – The Wanderers • 6:30 PM – The Spirographs • 8:00 PM – Dad Bod **Event fee: $15** Questions or Tickets : Email: ericSeisler@yahoo.com Easy vibes, great music, and classic Social Sips & Bites energy. RSVP and let’s rock winter 2026 together. https://www.unionstagepresents.com/shows/dc-rockers-15-feb

### 📅 Date & Time: **Saturday, February 21, 2025** **1:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST** *** ### 📍 Location: **Pots & Plants Garden Center** 10106 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls, VA 22066 (This is an **in-person event**.) *** ### 🌱 About This Event: **Don’t have a backyard? No problem!** This free, in-person workshop will show you how to grow real food — herbs, greens, and more — *inside your home*, using compact hydroponic and soil systems with LED grow lights. Whether you're new to gardening or looking to expand your food-growing skills during winter, this session will cover: ✅ Easy-to-use indoor garden setups ✅ LED lighting and hydroponic tips ✅ Local seedling options to save 30+ days of growing time ✅ Real tools you can use — no backyard required! *** ### 🎁 What You'll Get: * Live demonstration of indoor grow systems * Free digital guides to take home * Invite to join the full Indoor Food Growing Training Program (for free!) * Access to local seedling bundle options *** ### 👥 Who Should Attend: * Gardeners without outdoor space * Houseplant lovers curious about growing food * Local families, foodies, and eco-conscious neighbors * Anyone interested in sustainable food and indoor growing systems *** ### 📝 RSVP Info: **Free to attend – please RSVP to save your spot!** Bring a friend or neighbor along! Thank you, Clift --- Chief Community Grower at indoorgardenmarket.com

Social Sips & Bites… We accidentally found out it’s Ann’s birthday 👀 And as a group that never misses food, drinks, or a perfectly good excuse to celebrate… we’ve decided to politely crash her birthday party Come laugh, sip, snack, and help us convince Ann this was always the plan. Because let’s be honest, birthdays are better with great people and zero warning See you there

Bonsoir à tous! Venez nombreux pour causer autour d'un repas ou d'un verre chez La Madeleine. On n'a que deux règles: (1) qu'on y parle exclusivement le français et (2) qu'on achète quelque chose à boire ou à manger (c'est La Madeleine qui le demande). Merci et à bientôt!

**In a time of division and isolation, come be part of the community that's rebuilding the town square, one table at a time.** In BreadBreakers, we use the common space of the dining table to have conversations where neighbors can **hear, be heard, and know one another.** If you're hungry for good discourse and deeper community, join us for a Community Dinner in Reston and help blaze the trail to a healthier, more connected society and democracy. Here’s how it works: For just two hours, multiple tables of people set aside the need to "win" and instead focus on sharing, listening, and connecting. Guided by experienced table hosts, we'll tell our stories, try to understand each other, and practice being in community with those with different views or backgrounds. **At this dinner, participants will get to choose between three different topics, including some current events.** Topics range from the political, to the spiritual, to the philosophical, to the off-the-wall - but no matter which table you choose to sit at, you can be sure it'll be like no dinner conversation you've had before! You can also **suggest a topic** by emailing us at [BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com.](http://BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com./) Food will be provided for free. For those who wish to provide a donation to help fund BreadBreakers, you can [give here](https://pushpay.com/g/restorationrestonumc?fnd=pO6G-N7oO7FH7Mp1u-x6mA&fndv=Lock&r=No&lang=en&src=pcgl) or at the event. We'll have vegetarian and gluten-free options available. If you have any additional dietary restrictions (Celiac Disease, vegan, etc.) please let us know at [BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com](mailto:BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com) so that we can implement the appropriate food handling procedures. **Join us, invite a friend, and be a part of the movement to mend our fractured society and normalize a better way of talking with one another.** BreadBreakers, an initiative by [Restoration United Methodist Church](https://restorationreston.org/breadbreakers) in Reston, VA, is a religiously inclusive community. All faiths and all stripes are welcomed. Our leadership, volunteer team, and community include people who attend Restoration and people who don't. \~ Michael