Philly residents have found a new way to connect this year – over meals shared with strangers. The citywide trend of dining with others has brought people together from diverse backgrounds, with Supper clubs, app-organized meetups, and casual dinners in homes, bars, and restaurants being popular events.
The idea is simple: join a Facebook group or club focused on food and socializing, and attend a dinner gathering. This was the case for Alisha Kuriakose, a University City resident who joined Philly Gals and Pals Dinner, a women-only Facebook group with 57 members dedicated to dining with strangers.
“Sharing a meal with strangers is a great way to make friends,” Kuriakose said. “If I don’t have fun, it’s not a huge commitment either.”
Throughout the year, Philadelphians of all ages and backgrounds have followed suit, embracing this new form of community building. According to Shelby Sturge, administrator of Philly Gals and Pals, the trend isn’t surprising given the need for connection in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
As Philadelphia continues to grapple with issues like gun violence and gentrification, residents are finding solace in these food-filled gatherings. The city’s mayor, Cherelle L. Parker, has marked one year in office, but some Philadelphians feel that her message hasn’t always resonated with their concerns.
Source: https://www.inquirer.com/newsletters/philadelphia-trend-dining-with-strangers-fights-loneliness-epidemic-connecting-with-people-20241228.html