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How It Works

From Application to Dinner Date

Our exclusive process ensures every member is exceptional and every dinner is memorable. Here's exactly how TakeMeOutToDinner works.

Your Journey in 6 Simple Steps

1

Apply or Get Invited

Start your journey by applying directly or using an invite code from an existing member. Our application asks thoughtful questions about your interests, favorite restaurants, and what makes you unique.

Identity Verification

Link your LinkedIn or social profiles

Quality Photos

Upload 1-5 high-quality photos

Quick Process

Takes only 10 minutes

2

Personal Vetting Process

Every application is personally reviewed by our team. We look for interesting, accomplished individuals who will contribute positively to our community. This isn't about perfection—it's about finding people who bring something special to the table.

What we look for:

  • • Genuine enthusiasm for meeting new people
  • • Interesting background or perspectives
  • • Respect for others and community values
  • • Love for NYC's dining scene
3

Welcome to the Club

Once approved, you'll receive an exclusive welcome email and gain access to your member dashboard. Set up your profile, add your dining preferences, and get ready to start making connections.

Member Benefits

  • • Access to all dinner invitations
  • • Create your own dinner invites
  • • Exclusive member events (coming soon)

Invite Friends

  • • Get 2 invite codes initially
  • • Earn more by being active
  • • Help grow the community
4

Create or Join Dinners

The magic happens here. Either host a dinner at your favorite restaurant or browse invitations from other members. Every invitation includes the restaurant, date, time, and a personal message.

Host a Dinner

  1. 1. Choose your favorite restaurant
  2. 2. Pick a date and time
  3. 3. Add a welcoming message
  4. 4. Wait for requests to join
  5. 5. Choose who you'd like to meet

Join a Dinner

  1. 1. Browse available dinners
  2. 2. Filter by date, cuisine, area
  3. 3. Request to join with a note
  4. 4. Wait for host approval
  5. 5. Get ready for your dinner!
5

Connect Before Dinner

Once matched, you'll have access to a private chat to coordinate details and say hello. We keep it minimal—just enough to break the ice and confirm logistics. The real conversation happens over dinner.

Chat Guidelines

  • • Chat unlocks only after matching
  • • Keep conversation light and friendly
  • • Confirm reservation details
  • • Exchange contact info if desired
  • • Chat auto-archives 24 hours post-dinner
6

Enjoy Your Dinner

This is where the magic happens. Meet at the restaurant, enjoy great food, and have genuine conversation. No pressure, no expectations—just two interesting people sharing a meal in one of NYC's great restaurants.

Arrive on Time

Respect is key in our community

Be Present

Put the phone away and connect

Have Fun

Enjoy the experience!

Payment Flexibility

Host Treats

The host covers the entire bill—a generous gesture that sets the tone for a special evening

Split the Bill

Share the cost equally—the modern approach that keeps things comfortable for everyone

Decide Later

Figure it out when you meet—sometimes spontaneity is the best approach

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the vetting process take?

We review applications within 3-5 business days. Referred applications often receive priority review.

What if I need to cancel a dinner?

Life happens! Cancel as early as possible through the app. Last-minute cancellations without good cause may affect your membership.

Can I bring a friend to dinner?

TakeMeOutToDinner is designed for one-on-one connections. Group dinners may be introduced in the future.

Is there a membership fee?

Currently, membership is free while we build our founding community. Premium features may be introduced later.

How many dinners can I plan?

You can have up to 3 upcoming dinners at a time. Complete more dinners to unlock additional slots.

Ready to Get Started?

Join our exclusive community and start making real connections over unforgettable dinners.