Over 20 years ago, while Whitney Abbot, the founder of Open Table Talk, was in college, she started making pancakes in her room for friends once a week. Many of her friends, who came from various backgrounds, felt isolated during their college experience. She invited everyone to bring a friend and served the only food she could afford: pancakes.

That simple act of hospitality quickly grew. Each week, more than 100 to 200 people came together in a diverse community united by pancakes and syrup. Friendships formed, love stories began, and the laughter echoed through the halls. One week, someone even invited Whitney to her own party!

The tradition continued for over 15 years and eventually earned the International Community Award. It showed the power of food to connect us—and it planted the seed for something even bigger.

★★★★★

“Open Table Talk is a beautiful blend of flavors and friendships. It’s a community like no other.”

Samantha K.