Restaurant Industry

Welcome to Casual Dining Out, the event series where we explore counterserve establishments, food halls, and other venues for quick bites of Asian, "fusion", and other fare! As in the past, the field for these events will typically be limited, so please RSVP quickly if you know you're coming (or drop out quickly if you can't make it to give others a chance). RSVPs will close at 4 PM the day of the event and anyone who drops afterwards may be subject to the dreaded "no show" designation. This edition: Japanese soupless ramen ..... or with soup if desired. [https://www.kajiken-usa.com/](https://www.kajiken-usa.com/) As always, a bonus activity could follow if the mood is right. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- If you have Instagram, you can check out our account at asiandiningandadventuregroup for photos and announcements of group outings!

Lets learn about VERTICAL FARMING at Area 2 Farms in Arlington. Their mantra is: "to pioneer a future where farms are integrated into communities, directly connecting consumers with fresh, nutritious food and fostering a sustainable world for all. We combat the environmental and health impacts of the traditional food supply chain with our mantra: 'Move the farm, not the food.' " We will meet at 11:15 am inside the front door of Area 2 Farms, **2600 S Oxford St. Arlington VA, 22206.** Lunch after at Copperwood Tavern, 4021 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206. Area 2 Farms requests that each guest sign the waiver at [Area 2 Farms Tour Waiver](https://tu4cd.share.hsforms.com/25akJRQSqQdCpqCWS7_VFqg) Please do so after RSVP'ing.

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Understanding the Sports Betting Industry,”** an exploration of how legalized gambling on sports is affecting March Madness and athletics as a whole, with Matt Winkler, founder of American University’s online master’s program in sports analytics and management, adjunct professor at AU’s Kogod School of Business, former sports executive, and scholar and teacher of sports management, business, analytics, and technology. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-sports-betting](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-sports-betting) .] Sports betting has undergone explosive growth in the United States in the wake of a 2018 Supreme Court decision lifting the federal ban on it. Its widespread legalization by the states, combined with increased integration of sports and technology, has given rise to an industry with billions in annual revenue. This growth is not only reshaping the landscape for major sports leagues like the NFL and NBA but is also profoundly impacting global events such as the NCAA Tournament and FIFA World Cup. As more fans engage with sports through betting platforms, the dynamics of fan engagement, sports marketing, and even match and game governance are changing. Serious questions are being raised about sports betting’s integrity, regulation, and economic impact. Gain insights into the rapidly evolving global sports betting industry and its profound impact on March Madness, other athletic contests, and professional and collegiate sports. Professor Matt Winkler’s extensive knowledge of the sports economy and betting practices, combined with his years of industry experience—with the NCAA, Major League Soccer, the NHL, WNBA, the Olympics, and the World Cup—make coming to hear him speak an experience sure to pay off. He’ll share insight into trends such as the rise of mobile betting and the emergence of prediction markets. He’ll discuss the significance of sports integrity in gaming markets, the ethical considerations surrounding sports betting, and the various safeguards and regulatory approaches used to protect consumers, reduce problem gambling, and ensure the integrity of sports. Among the areas we’ll explore: The economic impact of legalized sports betting and how it affects local economies, advertising, and media rights. Why major leagues and the NCAA are partnering with betting companies and what they stand to gain from it. How betting is influencing the governance and commercial strategies of major international competitions such the Olympics and FIFA’s World Cup. Using March Madness as a case study, Professor Winkler will discuss how sports betting has altered the tournament’s viewership patterns, bracket culture, and revenue. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.

We are happy to announce this month’s Happy Hour and Production Meeting on 3/24/26. **This event was rescheduled to 3/24/26 (previously on 3/26/26, but we lost the space that night due to a wedding, you can't argue with love.)** * Happy Hour from 5-7pm * Production Meeting from 7-9pm Please see below for more details. Register on Eventbrite at [https://happyhour3-24-26.eventbrite.com](https://happyhour3-24-26.eventbrite.com). If you have any questions, please email us at info@wheatonfilmfestival.com. See you there! **Happy Hour from 5-7pm** This Happy Hour is for creative people and folks who appreciate creativity. Whether you attend, produce, appreciate, or promote, you are welcome to join us on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 from 5pm-7pm for a HAPPY HOUR at Silver Branch Brewing Co in Silver Spring, MD. We upgraded to the private room at Silver Branch Brewing Co. So head toward the back left corner behind the curtains, past the restrooms. Come meet, network, and enjoy. Only those ages 21 and up can attend. Happy Hour specials are from 5pm-6pm: $5.95 beer and select drinks. Entrance is free. This is a casual event. Register on Eventbrite at [https://happyhour3-24-26.eventbrite.com](https://happyhour3-24-26.eventbrite.com). **Production Meeting 7-9pm** Join us for a production meeting to launch a short film project to be completed within 30 days. This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience, build new connections, and collaborate on a creative project. The theme for this Make a Movie in a Month initiative is "Signal Film Festival.” Participants will create a short film up to 5 minutes in length, eligible for submission to the Signal Film Festival, benefiting the Alzheimer's Association National Capital Area Chapter. Films may be narrative, documentary, or any genre of your choosing. The entry fee for this Make a Movie in a Month is $15.00 per team. If you have an idea for a 5-minute short film, please come prepared to pitch it. We will review production logistics and discuss potential group-sponsored projects, so be ready to contribute and collaborate. The meeting and subsequent Happy Hour are open to filmmakers, editors, directors, producers, service professionals, actors, writers, hair/makeup artists, investors, students, etc. Don't forget your business cards. We look forward to seeing you there. See you there on 3/24/26! Please register on Eventbrite at [https://happyhour3-24-26.eventbrite.com](https://happyhour3-24-26.eventbrite.com). This event is produced in partnership with [TIVA](https://www.tivadc.org/) (Television, Internet, and Video Association of DC), [WIFV](https://www.wifv.org/) (Women in Film & Video), [Wheaton Film Festival](https://www.wheatonfilmfestival.com/), [ReelAbilities Film Festival: Greater Washington](https://reelabilities.org/greaterwash), [Docs in Progress](https://www.docsinprogress.org/), DC Media Makers Group, etc. Sponsored by [Brian Frankel Law Firm PLLC](https://brianfrankel.com/), [Creative Colony Spaces](https://www.creativecolonyspaces.com/membership), and Adobe Software. Enjoy delicious craft beers, tasty snacks, and great company in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just looking to unwind after a long day, this event is perfect for you. Don't miss out on the opportunity to kick back and relax with us at Silver Branch Brewing Co. Use the QR codes at the table to order food and drinks, and be prepared to mingle. Check out the Silver Branch Brewing Company's menu at [https://www.silverbranchbrewing.com/lagerhaus-biergarten/](https://www.silverbranchbrewing.com/lagerhaus-biergarten/)

Thene for this coffee talk is: Two Truths & a Lie – A classic icebreaker that sparks stories Join us at Lily’s Chocolate & Coffee in charming Old Town Alexandria for a relaxed, midweek hangout! Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a coffee enthusiast, or just looking for a cozy spot to meet new people, this café is the perfect place to unwind. Enjoy rich, hand-crafted chocolates, warm lattes, and sweet treats while chatting, laughing, and connecting with fellow Meetup-goers. Bring your curiosity, your favorite conversation topics, and your love for good coffee — this is all about relaxed socializing, new friendships, and enjoying the cozy vibes of one of Alexandria’s most inviting cafés.

Let's go back and play some Pour House Trivia at Crystal City Sports Pub! CCSP is a classic sports bar with a nice menu of pub fare. The game is held on the \*third floor\* of the venue, where all the trivia players will be! There should be parking in the surrounding neighborhood, and the venue is also accessible by bus and Metrorail. Note that this game starts at \*7:30 pm\*, so please arrive by 7:15 to find us and get situated. There are a lot of good (and a few not so good) teams who play there, so get ready for a fun competition!

You’ve never had Uzbek food? Perfect — this is your sign to change that. People walk in curious and walk out raving. It’s rich, flavorful, and seriously underrated. The cuisine has Turkish influences — so if you love that style of cuisine, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re feeling cautious, no worries… you can always go with something familiar like shish kebabs. Please keep your RSVP up to date. Repeated no-shows or last-minute cancellations may affect future RSVPs. The reservation is under my name. \*\* The restaurant can do maximum 5 checks for the table. Please bring cash for easier payment. \*\* They don't have alcoholic beverages on their menu. But you can bring your own bottle. \*\* Ample Free Parking in front of the restaurant. Here's the menu: https://www.silkroadchoyhona.net/

Please join us at Whino in Ballston on Thursday March 26th from 6PM to 8PM for a casual happy hour at the bar. Venue info and menus can be found [here.](https://www.whinova.com/menus) *\*\* Please note that each person will be responsible for their own tab. \*\**

Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana in Bethesda brings famous New Haven-style, coal-fired pizza to Montgomery Mall (7101 Democracy Blvd). Known for its signature charred, thin-crust pizza, the menu features the iconic White Clam Pie, Original Tomato Pie, and Amanti Della Carne, cooked in a 600-degree oven. Pizza and ice breaker game night! I will have a reservation. FREE easy Parking Members only please. This is located at Montgomery Mall. Great place for pizza.

We gather, grab a drink, grind and grin! After first formal session, we will rotate attendees. So that everyone meets everyone. You would get to meet your future friends/acquaintances/buddies/pals /partner-in-crimes or may be more:) To hang out/go out or do things together. Also, this is an ideal event if you are new in town or not! We will have specials, including our usual suspect MERtini:) Dress code : Weekend Casual Event is free and 21+ * Come one, come all; YOU COULD FLY SOLO TOO:) This is the most friendliest event you have ever attended! * Feel free to invite your friends. They don't necessarily have to be a member * Ideal for either you are new in town or not, to make friends and acquaintances * RSVP on Meetup is required. That is how we check you in. However, no need to sign up on Eventbrite or any other social media platform or ticket link. * We will have a registration station and check you in. PARKING INFO : Parking might be a challenge and the event involves drinking, we highly recommend you to get a shared ride or taxi service. DRINK RESPONSIBLY!

Mama Lucia's in Rockville has half priced bottles of wine on Weds. They also have the best pizza and my favorite type (NYC-style). They have great pasta dishes too. If it's nice, we can sit outside. Have a look at their menu: [Mamma Lucia Menu | Order Pizza, Pasta Online Delivery & Pickup](https://mammaluciarestaurants.com/menu/) All aboard mates!

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

Enjoy a bit of Columbus culinary history at Carfagna's market, wine bar and ristorante. We will gather for a glass of wine or two in the wine bar at 6:30 with dinner at 7pm. Arrive early if you like, shop and place your items in a cooler in your car. This is a pay-on-your-own event. I will have a reservation for eight, and you are encouraged to get your own reservation at 7pm. Message me if you want to be on my table. Keep your reservation up to date as the Attendance and Release of Liability provisions are enforced, including the 48 hour No-Show Rule. See the first page of Group Page for details. Read about the history of Carfagna's here and also see their weekly specials. https://carfagnas.com/about-carfagnas/

Someone told me about Due Amici and I hear it has some of the finest Italian food in town mangia bene, vivi felice! (eat well, live happy). Let’s enjoy the great food, the conversations, and most importantly the amazing company we keep, guys.

Let’s meet up at Pat and Gracie's Downtown for a relaxed night of burgers, drinks, and conversation. Never been, but have been wanting to go. Come grab a seat, order something good, and let’s make it a great night.

I hope you'll join me at [Carfagna's](https://carfagnas.com/) AMAZING complex on Gemini/Polaris. *Live, local acoustic music during dinner.* **Come by early for happy hour til 6pm.** Or, join us for dinner; show time is 6-9PM, Thursday. Reservation at 6pm for 12 under Michele Z (overflow can linger near the bar). Each Thursday they host live music in their beautiful upscale bar at **Carfagna's Ristorante**; but you need to check out everything this place has to offer Italian under one roof!!

Love getting lost in a good book? [The Book Loft](https://www.bookloft.com/) of German Village is an iconic independent bookstore packed with hard-to-find literary treasures! This isn’t your run-of-the-mill bookstore; it’s a 32-room literary wonderland that would make even the most seasoned bibliophile’s head spin (one of the largest in the country)! **MEET**: We'll gather outside the storefront and then start browsing... **DESSERT**: We'll grab some famous macaroons to start our foodie tour. [Pistacia Vera](https://www.pistaciavera.com/) is a delicious bakery and cafe in the German Village. This charming shop is especially known for its classic macarons. **HAPPY HOUR**: Italian drinks and bites at [Cento's happy hour](https://centogermanvillage.com/menus/). **PARKING**: Street parking all around here. Check the parking time limit. The bookstore and the foodie stops are all on 3rd Street within 4 blocks on the same side of the street.

Get ready for a backyard brunch that feels like summer, smells like heaven, and sounds like a whole vibe. We’re turning the backyard into the ultimate brunch playground with music flowing, drinks pouring, and plenty of food. This is the laugh loud, grab seconds, refill your cup kind of brunch. On the menu, we’re going all in. Fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, juicy sausage, golden pancakes and waffles hot off the griddle. Fresh bakes like warm cinnamon rolls and sweet coffee cakes that hit just right. And that’s just the start. We’ll have cocktails mixed and ready, juices chilled, sodas on ice, and plenty more to keep the energy up. Think mimosas, good conversation, music in the background, and that perfect mix of sunshine and shade. It’s about warm vibes, real connections, and food that makes you close your eyes on the first bite. Pull up hungry, bring your best stories, and get ready for a brunch that turns into a whole experience.