The Anniversary Soirée

Join us for a landmark evening as we celebrate the 5th Anniversary of the bestselling cookbook, Cooking with Mai: Easy to Prepare West African Food. Since 2020, this book has been a bridge to the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of West Africa, and we are thrilled to honor this journey with the community that made it possible.

Enjoy an exclusive tasting flight featuring signature recipes from the book, curated by Chef Mai. From bold spices to soulful regional staples, experience the heart of West African cuisine in the elegant atmosphere of Solaire 8200.

We are honored to be joined by special guest Shantelle Vanterpool, a self-taught mixed-media artist and author of the stunning memoir and coffee table book, Real Eyes, Realize: An Artist's Journey through the eyes of her Muse, Queen Nanny of the Maroons.

Shantelle will share insights from her artistic pilgrimage—a journey tracing her ancestry through Nova Scotia and Virginia while uncovering forgotten truths of the African diaspora. Guests will have the unique opportunity to learn about her artwork, which blends vibrant needlework and evocative photography with a groundbreaking Augmented Reality (AR) experience that brings her stories to life in the digital realm.

• Anniversary Tasting: A curated menu of "fan-favorite" dishes from Cooking with Mai.
• Author Talk & Book Signing: Meet both Mai and Shantelle and have your copies personalized.
• Interactive Art: Experience Shantelle’s work through an immersive AR journey (bring your smartphones!).
• Community & Culture: Connect with fellow food lovers, art enthusiasts, and professionals.

Admission includes a full tasting flight, beverages, champagne toast, and entry into our anniversary giveaway. Space is limited for this milestone celebration!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Solaire 8200 Dixon, 8200 Dixon Avenue, Silver Spring, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

Get App