Recap: [Virtual] India, October 15, ☕ Chai Pe Charcha – My First Connect Meetup Invitation! 🌍

We successfully conducted the Virtual /hybrid Meetup @ Demlik Turkish Teapot Restaurant, located in the heart of Palakkad, Kerala, on 15/05/2025 wef. 1730 to 1900 hrs. It was an evening filled with learning, fun, food, and cultural connection — and everyone truly enjoyed the experience.

:round_pushpin: Arrival and Initial Interactions

I arrived at the beautiful Demlik Turkish Teapot Restaurant around 5:20 PM and began the initial discussions with our fellow Local Guides who joined at the venue.
Three co–Local Guides namely @Manojmuthukumaran, @Ameeshmenon, @VKP_vlog were present at the location, and together we had a short coordination meeting before the event began.

We also had the opportunity to interact with Mr. Shajahan, the owner of Demlik, who warmly welcomed us. During our discussion, we shared insights about Google Maps contributions, accessibility features, and the empowerment of local businesses through the Local Guides community.


:laptop: Virtual Meetup Begins

At 6:00 PM sharp, the virtual meetup started. Our co-host @TusharSuradkar graciously welcomed all participants and set a wonderful tone for the session.

I then introduced my co–Local Guides who joined in person, connecting both the on-ground participants and virtual attendees seamlessly.
In total, 30 participants attended the meetup from various locations — all excited to explore the charm of this unique Turkish-themed restaurant.


:flatbread: About Demlik Turkish Teapot Restaurant

After introductions, I gave a short virtual presentation about Demlik Turkish Teapot Restaurant, highlighting:

Its authentic Turkish ambience, inspired by traditional Turkish tents.

The eco-friendly design — built without cement, using sustainable materials.

The beautiful seating arrangements, cozy lighting, and elegant Turkish décor.

The gentle background Turkish music that added a soothing and cultural touch to the evening.

We also discussed the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability — using only copper and glass utensils, avoiding plastic and paper menu cards, and maintaining a minimal-waste approach.



:fork_and_knife_with_plate: Culinary Experience

Throughout the meetup, we experienced a variety of authentic Turkish dishes and beverages, including:

:hot_beverage: Turkish Tea and Apple Tea

:stuffed_flatbread: Falafel

:bread: Tavuklu Fatayer

:custard: Tavuk Göğsü (Turkish Milk Pudding)

:flatbread: Freshly baked Turkish bread

The flavours, presentation, and cultural authenticity made the tasting session a memorable highlight for everyone.

:speech_balloon: Q&A and Quiz Session

At around 6:40 PM, @TusharSuradkar and @TravellerG led an engaging Q&A session, where participants shared their thoughts, feedback, and curiosity about Turkish cuisine, sustainability, and travel culture.

Following that, @TusharSuradkar hosted a short informative quiz, which everyone thoroughly enjoyed — adding an element of fun and interaction to the event.

:sunset: Closing & Reflections

By 7:00 PM, the meetup concluded on a high note, filled with satisfaction, smiles, and meaningful connections.
Participants appreciated the blend of learning, culture, and taste, and expressed enthusiasm for attending more such hybrid/virtual meetups in the future.

:folded_hands: Special Thanks

Heartfelt thanks to all 30 participants for joining virtually and to the co–Local Guides who supported on-ground coordination.
Special Thanks @TusharSuradkar (mentor)
@TravellerG and @Rahul001 (guidance and support)
A special appreciation to Mr. Shajahan and the Demlik team for their warm hospitality and for showcasing the beauty of Turkish culture through cuisine and sustainability.

:dizzy: Conclusion

This meetup beautifully reflected how Google Local Guides can come together to promote local businesses, explore global cultures, and encourage sustainable dining experiences — all while strengthening our community bonds.

With hearts full of joy and appreciation, we wrapped up the Demlik Turkish Teapot Restaurant Meetup around 7:00 PM, cherishing the spirit of learning, sharing, and togetherness.
Regards
@Roopesh
Location.Google Maps

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Wonderful recap @Roopesh :hot_beverage: Loved how the meetup blended culture, and taste together. Big appreciation to @TusharSuradkar ji and team for organizing such a vibrant session ….

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It was first time ever I witnessed Turkish cafe and beautiful decor with the display of the special dishes.

Thanks for giving us a tour of the same, @Roopesh. awaiting for many such exclusive tours of the places with you.

Cheers!

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@AjitThite ji. Thank you so much!
It was a pleasure having you join the tour and experience the Turkish café together. Glad you enjoyed the ambiance and the delicious dishes! Looking forward to exploring many more exciting places with you soon.

Cheers! :hot_beverage::sparkles:

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Than you very much dear @mahatokoushik623 for your valuable comment and feedback.

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Hello dear friend @Roopesh

Wow… your first Meet-up and RECAP… Both are excellent… highly appreciate your efforts and enthusiasm… great :+1:.

Unfortunately,
:wheelchair_symbol::cross_mark:… which I feel that they can easily do it…

Overall, I enjoyed reading your RECAP…
The photos and screenshots are impressive…

Our special regards & greetings to @Manojmuthukumaran, @Ameeshmenon, @VKP_vlog - congratulations for participating.

Hope to see more from you…
Regards with full of appreciations…
Most sincerely
:handshake::bouquet::folded_hands:

This was a fabulous meetup, dear @Roopesh
And a memorable one for a long time.
It was great meeting your friends online, hope they are local guides now :smiley:
The Turkish cafe was an amazing place, and the virtual tour was immensely entertaining.
Looking forward to meeting you in Palakkad in the near future :handshake:

Thank you @TusharSuradkar ji, for your support and guidance.