Public Events

Upcoming Events:

Holiday Tips & Tricks Zoom - Wednesday, November 12, 4 - 5:30pm:

We’ve lined up a fantastic group who will share quick, creative tips to help you elevate, and show off, your celebrations this year. Featured presenters:

  • Susan Barocas: Explore the rich tradition and delicious significance of oil in Hanukkah celebrations.

  • Bonnie Eberly: Discover the best wines to bring to your holiday gatherings and how to pair them perfectly.

  • Alina Gorban: Learn simple tricks for capturing beautiful photos of your holiday tablescapes and dishes.

  • Takeema Johnson: Enjoy a recipe demonstration filled with tips for cooking for guests with food allergies or aversions.

  • Cary Kelly: Take your holiday bread baking to the next level with creative ideas and expert techniques.

  • Kisha Washington: Create stunning holiday tablescapes with thoughtful details, seasonal textures, and a touch of magic.

  • Shani Whisonant: Celebrate the season with a favorite holiday baking recipe to warm the heart and home.

This casual session is perfect for gathering new ideas and connecting with fellow Dames. Whether you’re hosting, contributing a dish, or looking for creative inspiration, there’s something here for everyone. We hope to see you there!

Registration is required. Zoom link will be emailed to registrants the day before the event. The program is free to all but a $5 donation is welcome, and will go toward our fund for grants and scholarships for women in culinary fields. For more information, register here.

Past Events:

Green Kitchen Swap, February 2025

By all accounts, this February 22 event–hosted by our chapter’s Green Tables Committee and Teaism, in partnership with DC Ecowomen and Slow Food DC–was a resounding success. At the sold-out gathering, attendees brought unwanted kitchen supplies to give away and swap with others–to reduce waste and overconsumption, build community, and support neighbors in need. “Guests shared so much positive feedback, and the enthusiasm was also evident from the smiles and excitement throughout the day,” noted Green Tables Committee Chair and Recording Secretary Lani Furbank.

A Conversation on African Food and Culture   February 24, 2025

Entrepreneur and culinary ambassador Nina Oduro and food writer and culinary anthropologist Ozoz Sokoh shared their personal journeys and explored the rich diversity of African cuisines. From how recipes travel across borders to the adaptation of African ingredients in the US, this discussion highlighted the deep cultural connections and evolving narratives of African food. Moderated by Dame Susan Barocas, chair of the Global Culinary Initiatives committee. 

Click here to watch this webinar.

Social Media Best Practices, January 2025

Discover the secrets to creating a standout food and beverage brand on social media with expert insights from DC Dames Meryl Feinstein (@pastasocialclub) and Anina Belle Giannini (@lechefswife), joined by special guest Britney Brown-Chamberlain  (@britneybreaksbread).

Our panelists share tips, strategies, and inspiration to help you build a compelling online presence, connect with your audience, and grow your brand authentically. Whether you're a food professional or an enthusiast, you won't want to miss this opportunity to learn from the best!

Click here to watch this webinar.

Get Stuffed, October 2024

Nearly every culture has small, easy-to-eat pastries stuffed with savory and sweet fillings—from börekas, empanadas and samosas to Cornish pasties and Chinese xian bing. Participants explored the diversity of hand pies with an introduction by Dame Susan Barocas before breaking into groups and heading to the kitchens for preparation of two hand pies led by Nura Sakati Mendez, a Levantine cooking expert, and Master Chef and food writer Dame Evelyn S. Bunoan. This program was hosted by Dame Maria Kopsidas, owner of Cookology Culinary School and the Metropolitan Culinary Arts Institute. Wine for the event was donated by Prestige Ledroit.