Why One-on-One Dating Isn’t for Everyone

(And What to Try Instead)

Let’s be honest - not everyone thrives in the world of one-on-one dating. Whether it’s the awkward small talk, the pressure to impress, or the stress of “yet another first date”, traditional 1-1 dating doesn’t work for everyone.  

At A Table For Six, hundreds of singles - men and women - tell us the same thing: one-on-one dating can feel like a job interview in disguise.  If this resonates, it's time to date differently. 

What Makes One-on-One Dating So Hard?

Some people love the intensity of a one-on-one dinner date - but for many, it’s more stressful than exciting. Here’s why it might not be your thing:

• Too much pressure: You’re trying to be relaxed and authentic, but also funny, charming, and interesting.  Working to fill the silences, without rambling. So stressful. 

• It can get awkward, fast: If there's no spark or the conversation stalls, you're stuck. No one else to talk to, date over. 

• It’s intense: One to one conversations can feel intense, it can be hard to bring light banter and humour when there are just 2 of you.  

For Men: The Silent Stress of One-on-One Dating

We hear from lots of men who feel pressure to 'lead' the date - to choose the venue, steer the conversation, pay the bill, and make a great impression.  It's gendered, but it's often the case. That’s a heavy load, especially when you're also trying to work out if you're genuinely interested.  

Group dinners take that pressure off. The dynamic is more relaxed, conversation flows naturally, and it’s easier to be yourself — without the spotlight on you.  Plus - you don't have to figure out the right restaurant, book it and pay the reservation fee ahead of time.  We do all the work for you! 

For Women: Safety and Comfort First

Many women tell us they feel safer and more at ease in a group setting - especially when meeting someone new.  For 1-1 dates some women set up systems with friends to monitor their safety remotely.  Super stressful.  Group dinner dating, at reputable restaurants, are a safe and trusted way to meet others. 

Group dinners also allow time to observe and connect with people in a more organic way, without the intensity of being one-on-one from the start.  You can gain a lot of information from seeing a guy in a group setting, which helps give you a well-rounded view of him.   

The Group Dinner Advantage

So what’s the alternative? Group dining experiences like A Table For Six offer a smarter, more enjoyable way to meet people.

Here’s what makes it work:

• ✅ Low pressure – It’s a social dinner, not a formal date.

• ✅ Multiple people – Meet 3 men and 3 women in one night.

• ✅ Natural conversation – No forced small talk. Just good food and good company.

• ✅ Real connection – You get a sense of who people really are over the duration of dinner. 

Real People, Real Vibes

We’ve had so many members tell us how much they prefer this format - not only because it’s more fun, but because they’ve actually met people they click with. Real friendships, real connections.

Try It for Yourself

If you’re tired of the one-on-one pressure cooker, group dinners might be the breath of fresh air you need. We run dinners in cities around Australia - relaxed, friendly and designed to help real people connect.

Join a dinner. Bring your appetite. Leave the awkwardness behind.