If the idea of awkward intros and forced chit-chat makes you cringe, you’re not alone – and you’re exactly who The First Round is designed for. This clever new Melbourne dining experience flips the traditional meet-and-greet format on its head, replacing name tags with secret passwords, small talk with real conversations, and stiff social vibes with an algorithm that knows how to build instant rapport.
Here’s how it works: you buy a ticket and 24 hours before the event you’re sent the mystery location along with a secret password. Fill out a quick pre-event questionnaire, and you’ll be matched with five strangers who actually get you. Think dinner party meets social experiment- with a delicious menu and no-pressure games to break the ice.
Whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, The First Round promises to pair you with open-minded people looking for the same thing: connection without cringe. And no, it’s not speed dating. It’s just a vibe.
From the second you arrive, the curated experience takes the pressure off. There’s no scrambling for conversation starters – the games and guided prompts do the heavy lifting so you can relax and just be yourself. Food and drinks are available to purchase on the night, but the real highlight is the company.
The First Round isn’t just dinner—it’s a night of shared stories, unexpected laughs, and new mates you never saw coming. Come solo, leave with six new group chat messages.
The First Round will run on 4, 11 and 18 September. Tickets are available here.
