Mediterranean

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!

Thursdays at 6:30pm Take 30 minutes at the end of your day to unwind and connect to your potential for inner peace. Suitable for everyone, these meditation classes offer guided meditations and practical advice for improving the quality of our mental peace. **Registration** Each class is available by drop in. **Standard:** $5 **\| [Member Pricing:](https://meditation-dc.org/membership/) Free** [Register Here](https://meditation-dc.org/thursday-night-rest-and-reflect/) Everyone is welcome to attend, no previous experience is required. **LOCATION** Kadampa Meditation Center DC 1200 Canal St\. SW \| Washington\, DC 20024 **Metro Stop:** Waterfront or Navy Yard

Γειά σας! I Hope folks are having a good spring. We had a great March MeetUp and olive oil tasting in Manassas last month. Look for more weekend events in the future, but for April we will return to DC and hold our Greek MeetUp at The Parthenon on Thursday night, April 23rd at 7 PM. There are a few other Hellenic events to note,including: * The film ‘Kapothistrias’ screens for one night only on April 22nd. You can find more info here: [https://www.fathomentertainment.com/releases/the-governor/](https://www.fathomentertainment.com/releases/the-governor/) * We’re invited to the 10th UMD Modern Greek Studies Conference, titled “Byzantium, Hellenism, and the Shaping of Modernity” on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 1:00 – 4:00 PM. The conference will be held at Marie Mount Hall, Room 1400, University of Maryland, College Park and promises to be “an engaging afternoon featuring faculty and undergraduate presentations exploring the enduring legacy of Byzantium and its influence on modern Hellenism and global intellectual traditions * Saint Sophia’s Greek Festival is the weekend of May 15-17. I/m out of town that week but will be back in time to attend on Sunday, May 17th. A pretty nice list of events, highlighted of course by our MeetUp on April 23rd at The Parthenon. Να τα πούμε! - Athan

Discover the power of your breath to manage your mind and experience instant peace & calm. Join a 60-minute free Workshop and get a glimpse of the Sudarshan KriyaTM- The breathing technique that is revolutionizing the lives of millions. What you’ll discover at ‘Beyond Breath’ ✔ A taste of the Sudarshan KriyaTM, a breathing technique taught in the Happiness Program ✔ An instant energy booster that awakens & relaxes your mind - Take it home and practice daily! ✔ The peace & calm of a unique guided meditation ✔ Secret keys to manage your mind ✔ The power of surrounding yourself with positive, like-minded people. You can use your breath to master your thoughts and emotions - the key to managing the quality of your day. The Happiness Program At the end of this workshop you may enroll into the Happiness Program (3 days, 3 hours each day) to learn the Sudarshan KriyaTM, a science-backed, rhythmic breathing technique through which you can: Tap into a reservoir of energy and use it as you please! Relieve deep-rooted stresses and anxieties Uplevel your productivity Overcome emotional blocks, move on from past events and shed limiting beliefs Heal your body & gain power over your mind Experience the true state of meditation Learn more about the Happiness Program & the Sudarshan KriyaTM in our introductory workshop 'Secrets to Meditation'. Instagram: artoflivingDMV aolf.live/secretstomeditation

This will be our only healing Circle for February. ✨ **An Evening of Reflection, Renewal and Awakening** ✨ Join us for a transformative evening of healing, connection, and self-discovery. Gathered in sacred space around the glow of the fire, we will journey together through meditations designed to ground, restore, and awaken the spirit to purpose and loving service. 🌿 **What to Expect** * Gentle, guided meditations (two new practices each gathering) * Heartfelt sharing in a safe, supportive circle * Space for authentic expression, deep listening, and mutual growth * Meaningful spiritual insights and uplifting discussion This is a gathering for anyone seeking peace, clarity, or community. All are welcome—simply bring an open mind and a respectful heart. 🔥 **When & Where** * We typically meet twice each month on the 2nd & 4th Thursdays. Come as often—or as little—as your spirit calls. * Weather permitting, we gather outdoors in the tipi or by the large fire circle. If needed, we will move indoors. * 💫 **For First-Time Visitors** * No prior experience is needed. * Please arrive **15 minutes early** to settle in. * You are welcome to walk the grounds or explore our crystal shop before the circle begins. 📍 **Directions** * Address: **15406 Riding Stable Rd.** (property is at the end of a ½ mile driveway into the woods). * You will cross a small stream—drive slowly (under 10 MPH) to keep dust down. * Please be mindful of our neighbors and do not stop to interact with horses along the way. * 💖 **Energy Exchange** To help keep this gathering accessible, we invite an offering of **$15–$25**. If you feel called to contribute in another way, please reach out in advance. With love and gratitude, we welcome you into this circle of renewal.

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

Come enjoy authentic Ethiopian food at the highly-rated [Effoi restaurant](https://www.effoirestaurants.com/), or discover it for the first time! The photo shows a mixed veggie plate served on and with the unique spongy sourdough injera bread of Ethiopian cuisine. It's typical to share platters like this (adding meat if desired too) and eat family style. Some dishes are spicy and others less so, we can modify or designate as needed! After the lunch, we can walk around and look at the craft booths at the Spring Makers' Market, which runs from 10 to 4. [https://www.downtownsilverspring.com/events/spring-makers-market/](https://www.downtownsilverspring.com/events/spring-makers-market/) The restaurant is a 12-minute walk from the Silver Spring metro station. And of course the wonderful company of FFF>50 friends is the best part! Hope to see you! Thanks so much to Sandy for the planning!

**Weekly Sunday Meditation Classes with Sanema Naomi Hardrick** * Each class begins with **guided breathing meditation**, to help settle the mind, let go of distractions and cultivate inner peace. The meditation is followed by a brief, traditional Buddhist prayer, called *Liberating Prayer.* * The Teacher will then give a **practical teaching** based on the topic of the class series and explain how we can integrate Buddha’s timeless wisdom into our busy daily lives. * The teaching is then followed by a **guided meditation** to help us mix our mind with the teaching and take it to heart. * Time permitting, at the end of the meditation class we spend a few minutes in **group discussion** and the teacher will take any **questions** that the class might have about the topic. **COST:** Standard: $12 \| Financial Hardship: $6 \| [Register](https://meditation-dc.org/sunday-mornings/) \*\*[Member Pricing: ](https://meditation-dc.org/membership/)\*\*FREE & Available as an online class. **LOCATION** Kadampa Meditation Center DC 1200 Canal St\. SW \| Washington\, DC 20024 **Metro Stop:** Waterfront or Navy Yard

Every other Thursday brought to you by DJ Shams Playing the best in Kizomba, Urban Kiz, Kompa, Salsa, Bachata. Whether you’re new to Kizomba or a longtime lover of this soulful dance, this is your space to relax, enjoy the music, and share the dance floor with a vibrant, friendly community. Come solo or with friends—no partner needed. Let’s keep the energy flowing and the Kizomba spirit alive! **🗓️ Thursday April 23rd** **🕗 8:30pm - 9:15pm** **Kompa Class by Leroy** **9:15pm - 10:00pm** Kizomba Class by Oscar B.A. **10:00pm - 12:30am** Music by DJ Shams 📍 Citadel Creole Cuisine 11300 Fern St. Silver Spring, MD 🎟️ $15 (Social + 1 Class) 🎟️ $20 (Social + 2 Classes) See you on the dance floor!

**Sahaja Yoga teaches a unique method of meditation, rooted in ancient spiritual knowledge.** We follow a format of continuous integration of topics in our classes so that no two classes are same and so we are able to accommodate new meditators along with experienced ones. **Through Sahaja Yoga, you can achieve a state of meditation known as thoughtless awareness. In this state, you experience and enjoy the present moment without any distractions from the past or future. Your consciousness works in flow with your inner energy ([Kundalini](https://us.sahajayoga.org/the-kundalini/)).** Some of the things we go over with in our programs are how to awaken your dormant Mother energy called Kundalini. Meditation with Mantras using power of very basic mantra to bring peace within! Meditation with music, what are Chakras, how to take affirmations, what is Thoughtless Awareness and how to find the state of your Chakras. *Meditation sessions led by an experienced fellow meditator.* **Please join us to awaken the dormant energy within you and re-balance your emotional, physical and mental state of being!** **Sahaja Yoga was founded in 1970 by Shri Mataji**. She envisioned a world where people would be transformed, and lead more balanced lives. She has worked tirelessly to help people meditate and achieve greater spiritual heights through this meditation. **Cost**: Free **Parking**: Paid parking in garages and on street. Garage-40 Cordell-St.Elmo Garage, Saint Elmo Avenue, Bethesda, MD is 2 mins walking distance from meditation center. **How to reach us?** We are at **Sahaja Yoga Meditation Center** on **4901 Saint Elmo Avenue** **Bethesda, MD 20814**, *walking distance from Bethesda Metro Center* **You can learn more about this meditation** from [us.sahajayoga.org](https://us.sahajayoga.org)

Social Sips & Bites Presents: A Monthly Culinary Experience **Small Group • Big Flavor • Great Company** We’re kicking off a brand-new monthly food series designed for those who truly appreciate great food and even better company. Each month, a small group of just 12 food lovers will gather at one handpicked spot in the DMV area, chosen for its vibrant flavors, cozy vibe, and overall wow factor. Think hidden gems, chef-driven menus, and memorable bites. This isn’t just about eating out. It’s about sharing a beautiful meal, great conversation, and unrushed time together. Reservations will be made in advance, so you can relax, savor the moment, and connect. Whether you’re a foodie, an adventurer, or just someone who loves a well-plated dish, this is your table.

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

**Let’s catch up and take an afternoon break.** **Grab a coffee or snack and let’s chit chat! Gayle and I will bring adult coloring books and/or a simple craft if you’d like to unwind and relax.😊**

Details Let's join together for a fiesta! (Invite friends - we have lots of room!) Taco Bar Margarita and Beer tasting Complementary chips and salsa Margs/cocktails at the bar for purchase Freshly prepared snacks in the deli for purchase Festive Band/Music Margaritas/Mexican Beer Tasting + Taco Bar: $15.00 per person (covers 4 Margarita or beer samples and one pass thru the Taco Bar) Where: #MarketDistrict (Grandview Yard) location. The party room (our private space) will be decorated with both patios open! Adjoining upstairs area also open for over flow and mingling. After Party: Sometimes, we head to a venue to hear live music afterwards. LDNL is at Black Swan in Hilliard tonight! Wear your bright colors and cheerful !Salud!