Eat Offbeat: Me, Mommy, Mantu – Kids Cooking & Storytelling Experience

Afghan food is deeply connected to family, hospitality, and the tradition of gathering together. Me, Mommy, Mantu bring these traditions to life through an afternoon created especially for children and their parents, combining storytelling, hands-on cooking, and a shared Afghan meal. 

Recommended for children ages 7-12. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 

Join Afghan-American children's author Toba Adina-Jao and the Eat Offbeat team for a cultural experience inspired by Me, Mommy, Mantu. Children will hear the story, learn about Afghan culture and food, make their own mantu dumplings, and then gather together to enjoy the food they helped create. 

The Experience:

Book Reading & Storytelling:

The afternoon begins in the Graffiti Room, where the children will sit on cushions and Afghan carpets for a reading of Me, Mommy, Mantu with author Toba Adina-Jao, followed by a short conversation about Afghan food, family, and culture. 

Hands-On Mantu Making:

Children and parents will then join Toba and the Eat Offbeat team for a hands-on mantu-making experience. The kids will learn how to fill, fold, and shape one of Afghanistan's most beloved dumplings. 

Afghan Table:

Once the mantu is ready, everyone will gather together to enjoy the freshly prepared dumplings, Afghan small bites, and kid-friendly soft drinks. Full menu includes:

• Mini Potato Bolani
• Vegetable Sambosas
• Fresh Fruit Cups
• Nakhodchi Cookies and Rot (Afghan Sweet Bread)
• Mini Firni Cups (Afghan-style Cardamom Pudding)
• Dried Fruits and Nuts (Plated Separately)
• Fresh Pomegranate Juice
• Soft Drinks

Book Signing & Chef's Gift:

The afternoon ends with Toba signing the children's books and a special goodbye gift from the chef for each child to take home.