Forget coffee and croissants, this Saturday Bao To Me in Koramangala, is teaming up with Book A Table for a literary lunch that pairs Yellowface by RF Kuang with a specially curated five-course pan-Asian meal.

Book A Table is an initiative run by two sisters, Shachi and Kriti Srivastava, who host themed dinners based on books for food and book lovers alike at their home. Stemming purely from their love for both topics, this collaboration furthers their search for like-minded company.

Food for thought

Part book club, part dining experience, the event is designed in a way so conversations will flow alongside a five-course meal. While guests are encouraged to read Yellowface beforehand, everyone is welcome to join in. 

“The event is structured as a moderated discussion that unfolds alongside the meal,” says Shachi Srivastava, co-founder of Book-A-Table.  “As each course is served, the conversation progresses through different themes, characters, and ideas from the book.”

The choice of Yellowface came naturally, she says. Exploring questions of identity, representation and cultural appropriation, the novel felt particularly suited to Bao To Me and its cross-cultural influences. 

Taster’s delight

Rather than recreating scenes from the book, Bao To Me’s five-course meal takes inspiration from the broader themes of identity and cultural exchange. Drawing from Chinese, Japanese and Himalayan influences, the meal will reflect the restaurant’s approach to storytelling through food. 

“While the menu includes a few of our classics, the focus extends beyond any individual dish. We’re excited to see how the food becomes part of the conversation,” says chef and co-founder, Wan Ming Li. 

So while the menu largely remains under wraps, diners can expect a selection of favourites from Bao To Me along with a few surprises created specially for the event. 

Rich fare

For Book A Table, the idea is simple; books become richer when discussed with others. “There is a definite joy in converting the solitary act of reading into a social experience that allows one to bond with strangers almost immediately,” says Shachi. “And what is more social than food?”

The collaboration began when Bao To Me discovered Book A Table on instagram. For Wan Ming Li, whose restaurant regularly hosts community-focused experiences, the partnership felt like a natural fit. “Their concept felt fresh, thoughtful, and perfectly aligned with the kind of community-driven experiences we enjoy hosting,” he says.

Restaurants are increasingly becoming a place where not only plates, but also stories are shared; bringing interesting, thought-provoking books into the mix makes for exciting new conversations. 

The upcoming event offers avid readers and foodies a chance to experience Yellowface one course at a time. 

At Bao To Me, Koramangala on June 27, from 12:30-2.30 pm. Reservations on Townscript.