There’s something magical about gathering people around food—not just to eat, but to share stories, laughter, and a little chaos in the kitchen. In the first week of August, Adda brought six strangers to one table for a family-style feast of Bengali street snacks and homely recipes. Between phuchka, papdi chaat, and spiced curries, stories flowed — of cities left behind, kitchens remembered, and flavours that felt like home.
The day started well before guests arrived. In fact, it was a full day of prep—shopping for fresh ingredients, testing seasoning balances, chopping, marinating, and arranging every little detail so the menu flowed just right. Then came half a day of pure cooking mode—the hum of the stovetop, the comforting clatter of pans, and the smell of spices filling the air.
I wasn’t alone, though. A dear friend joined me—not just to taste along the way (which they happily did), but also as our behind-the-scenes photographer. They captured everything: the first sizzle in the pan, the moment a sauce came together, the little spills, the laughter, the plating rituals. Those candid shots tell the story of the day just as much as the food itself.
I wasn’t alone, though. A dear friend joined me—not just to taste along the way (which they happily did), but also as our behind-the-scenes photographer. They captured everything: the first sizzle in the pan, the moment a sauce came together, the little spills, the laughter, the plating rituals. Those candid shots tell the story of the day just as much as the food itself.
When guests finally arrived, the room came alive. The conversations rolled as easily as the dishes left the kitchen, each plate carrying a piece of the love and care that went into it. By the end, I was tired, yes—but in that deeply satisfying way you only feel when you’ve cooked from the heart and shared it with people who truly appreciate it.
The first Adda Session wasn’t just a dinner—it was a reminder of why I love doing this: good food, good company, and a space for connection. This was just the beginning, and I can’t wait to host the next one.
- with love
Tinni