How To Make Friends in Sydney: The Rise Of Supper, Book and Run Clubs

Photos courtesy of Club Sup

We want to get out there, it’s true. And there are people leading the charge with creative events centred on food – and you’re encouraged to go solo. We chatted with some of the teams, and put together a list of our favourites.

Joined a book, run or supper club recently? You’re not alone. There’s no doubt – through the rise of organised, friendly gatherings – there’s been somewhat of a social rebirth in city communities. They represent a collective urge to “get out there”, with new-wave clubs and meet-ups emerging.

We’re bonding over books (thanks, Booktok), post-run pastries and Pilates; and the timeless tradition of sharing food, wine and stories around a table remains a surefire way to forge connections.

Club Sup’s Sophie McIntyre is a champion in the making-friends arena, turning the loneliness of her early twenties into an events-driven business that creates a safe space for people to hang out alone. Evidence of success? Her online community’s grown to over 20,000 members.

“Everyone understands what it feels like to be lonely,” McIntyre tells Broadsheet. “It can be so specific to each person, and I want to create experiences where people can truly feel like themselves.” Melbourne-based McIntyre hosts monthly dinners at Darlinghurst’s Theeca and occasional book swaps at the Ace Hotel, plus meet-ups for over-forties and cookbook clubs too. She’s working on plans to grow her Sydney offerings, launching a subscription service next year with free events, discounted tickets and perks.

Inner-west book club To Be Read tells a similar tale. Dreamt up by friends Eva Telemachou and Pia Kandarajah, it’s a place for book lovers of all sorts. “We conduct a poll with our followers for a monthly read, then meet at an inner-west restaurant or pub,” says Kandarajah. “Our community has grown organically on Instagram and through friends. We started with six people and now have almost 50 at each event, with tickets selling out in minutes.”

“Many choose to come solo, which we encourage,” Telemachou adds. “It only takes five seconds of courage to talk to someone new and make a friend.”

And with that boost of confidence, here’s where to make friends in Sydney.

For those who like some liquid courage

Some of our favourite spots like Manly’s Winona Wine and Alexandria’s Drnks regularly host free social-slash-educational events and wine tastings. Go solo and commit to chatting with someone new over a shared love of the pour. Provider Store’s Maido hosts similar events, like this month’s Japanese wine tasting.

Supra Nights, the Wednesday-night series at Newtown’s Marani Deli, is a great pick too. “We sit at a long table with about fifteen people while a winemaker discusses their drops, paired with our deli’s cheese and cured meats,” owner Alex Grenouiller says. “People bring their friends or come alone, but it’s always chatty – like a big family dinner where everyone is welcome.”

For the cooks

Bond over a love of cooking and newfound skills. Head to the charming Surry Hills restaurant Osteria Emilia for a pasta-making session at its cooking school. Over a few hours, you’ll have the chance to pick up new skills and enjoy a shared lunch with your new pals.

For the runners

The Croissant Run Club meets at 8am in Centennial Park every Saturday. Sprint (or walk) the five-kilometre route – straight to The Cook & Baker for a coffee and your pick of post-sweat baked goods.

Honestly, I made it to an event and then found myself too scared to chat. McIntyre assures me that’s normal – and has three tips if you find yourself in this same sitch. “First, you’ve made it here, so just be brave. Second, when you go up to someone, instead of asking ‘How was your day?’, ask ‘What did you do today?’ Lastly, remember [you’re] in a room where everyone is feeling the same way, so forget the nerves and just go for it.”

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