Frequently Asked Questions - Single Gourmet DFW

Q. What is Single Gourmet?

A. It is a members-only social organization for single professionals offering dinner parties at the finest restaurants, cooking classes, trips and other exquisite culinary events.

Q. Is this a matchmaking or dating service?

A. No. We provide a safe and congenial setting for singles to meet and not have to dine or attend other events alone.

Q. Why do people join?

A. As a way to try new restaurants they likely wouldn't have tried alone. Our events are ideal social settings for making new friends or networking while sharing laughter, joy and conversation.

Q. What does it cost to join?

A. The annual membership fee is $195 and runs for 13 months.

Q. Do you have any incentives for members?

A. We extend memberships four months for every male referral that joins and two months for every female. (The disparity is to help balance the male/female ratio.)

Q. Does the annual membership fee include events?

A. No. Events are extra. Dinners and cooking classes start at $69 and wine dinners are $89 up. Dinners prices always include coffee, iced tea, tax and gratuity.

Q. How often and what days of the week do you hold events?

A. We offer several events monthly throughout the Metroplex, in Dallas, Collin and Tarrant counties. Our dinner parties are held on Sunday through Thursday nights. Our cooking classes are typically held on Saturday mornings and occasionally we hold special events on weekends.

Q. What time do events start?

Dinners held during the week start at 6:45 p.m. for a 45-minute reception and the seated dinner starts at 7:30 p.m. On Sundays, we start earlier -- 6:00 p.m. for the reception and 6:45 p.m. for dinner. Our Saturday classes typically start at 10 a.m. or later.

Q. Do you allow guests?

A. We accept guests of members on a space-available basis. They may attend -- one event only -- for a $10 surcharge plus the event cost. Occasionally, the the surcharge is waived as noted in each newsletter. We are a member-exclusive organization and members get first priority.

Q. Will I feel at ease attending alone?

A. Yes. Most members come alone. We are here to greet you and introduce you to others.

Q. What is the age range?

A. Members are in their 30s through 60s.

Q. How many people typically attend events?

A. The average is 20 to 40 people. However, based on the size of the facility and the type of event, we may be able to accommodate fewer or more people.

Q. How many events may I attend each month?

A. Members may attend as many events as they wish on a space-available basis.

Q. What is your cancellation policy?

A. Cancellations must be made in writing (e-mail or fax) seven or more days before all events to receive full credit on the members' Single Gourmet account (not refunded). No credit issued to no shows.

Q. How do I pay for an event?

A. All events must be paid when the reservation is made. We accept credit and debit cards for membership and event registration: MasterCard, VISA, Discover and American Express. We do not accept checks or money orders.

Q. How will I know that my reservation has been accepted?

A. About a week before each event, you'll be notified by e-mail confirming your reservation with all the particulars. If an event is sold out, we will advise you by phone and place you on the waiting list.

Q. How does the waiting list work?

A. Once we have reached the maximum number of reservations, we will create a waiting list and will contact the member if there are cancellations.

Q. Is my name or e-mail address sold or given to other organizations?

A. Never. All information in the membership application is strictly confidential and will never be sold nor given to third parties under any condition.

Q. Are alcoholic beverages served?

A. Members may purchase alcoholic beverages of their choice. This way, people who do not drink won’t feel as though they’re paying for others’ alcoholic beverages. Periodically, wine will be served and included in the event price.

Q. What is the dress code for events?

A. Most events are dressy casual: slacks and shirts for men; women can wear pant suits or slacks and blouses. For casual events, slacks (khakis or nice denim) and sport shirts or blouses.For dressier events, it's business: suit or sport coat for men; pant suits, dresses or suits for women. Occasionally we hold events that are very casual: jeans, shorts, sandals and tennis shoes are okay.

Q. Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

A. When making the reservation, please advise us of your food allergies. We want you to have an enjoyable experience.

Q. Can I receive my newsletter via US Mail?

A. No. The newsletter is available only via e-mail. Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader and high-speed Internet access is recommended.

Q. Do you allow smoking?

A. No. We do not allow smoking during pre-dinner socials, at dinner or other events.

Q. Is there a code of conduct?

A. Yes. We reserve the right to not renew a membership at its expiration date or terminate it at any time. If a membership is terminated, a prorated amount will be refunded.

Q. Is Single Gourmet a new concept?

A. No. It was founded in 1978.

Q. Is this the only chapter?

A. No. There are chapters in major metropolitan cities throughout the U.S. and Canada and are listed on the "Chapters" link.

Q. May I attend events at other Single Gourmet locations?

A. Yes. Members pay as a guest and attend on a space-available basis.

Q. How do I join?

A. Just click on Membership Application and you’re on your way!