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Resource Thu Jan 03 2013
Social Networking for the Hungry at Heart
On the cusp of a new year, and in the midst of a wanderlusty conversation with one of my close friends, he reminded me that "It's not a bad thing to hit the 'reset' button every once in a while." And while my travel budget might be a bit tight, it's the endless possibilities for meeting new people--and getting acquainted with different local haunts that make Chicago so unique--that has me the most excited to begin this new year. If you're looking to break out of your social comfort zone this year, here are some foodie ways to satisfy your cravings.
GrubWithUs.com
You've heard of it--the institution that made social dining an institution. This versatile website gives users a chance to coordinate meals with others based on interests in food, careers, hobbies, lifestyles, and every obscure topic in-between. Yes, comic artists, gluten-free foodies, and Reddit users; they've got you covered too. Group numbers are usually kept small and intimate and meals vary in cost, but include several course choices from delectable local restaurants. Unsatisfied with the current options? Make your own group and take social dining into your own grub-loving hands.
Dabble.co
This website is a revelation. If you're looking to jumpstart a new hobby without breaking the bank, Dabble makes trades, tinkering, and generally trying new things both affordable and accessible. (Apologies for the alliteration overload; it just kind of happened.) I've previously taken an introductory apartment composting course, and left with all of the supplies and knowledge I needed to confidently delve into a wormy new hobby--not to mention that I spent a wonderful afternoon spent getting my hands dirty with the other attendees of the small class. Classes aren't centered uniquely on food, but most of the standout ones are: wine tasting, recipe development, beer brewing (currently sold out, but offered frequently), and food canning are all on the agenda for 2013.
MeetUp.com
A veteran of the online-to-real-life social scene, MeetUp.com is, by far, one of the best outlets on the 'net designed to facilitate the friend-finding process. New in town, or just jonesing for a new crowd? This is your solution. There is something for everyone: board game titans, philosophy aficionados, even Chicago volleyball players. But for the foodies in all of us, MeetUp.com is a goldmine. Culinary adventure, raw food cuisine, vegetarianism/veganism and many more are served up through regular "meet-ups" at public places where foodies can mingle with their newly-found culinary chums.
I'll see you across a table sometime this New Year!