Eating & Drinking

**Every Wednesday and Friday!** (Friday starts on 4th Oct!) **📣IMPORTANT📣:** registrations are essential! Attendees that have not registered will be charged $5 to enter. For FREE entry, get your membership below: [https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeRegistration](https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeRegistration) **== Find someone to practice with before the event ==** (Optional:) post the language you're learning (and teaching language) in the comments so the right people can connect with you. E.g. a comment like: "#learnFrench #teachEnglish seeyou all soon :-)". **Overview:** Every week, over 150 people from 23+ countries meet at out language exchange to practice a new language and make new friends over a beer.🍻 The first thing you will notice when you go to New To Melbourne is the great community atmosphere; people in our group are friendly and helpful and always welcoming of new group members. I hope you can bring a friend and join us for some language practice :-) Our language exchange is free and runs every We3ednesday night, there's cheap food & drinks if you arrive at 6pm and want some dinner ;-)🍻🍟 **If you want to attend:** Event cost: **FREE**! (you must register for free entry: [https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeRegistration](https://bit.ly/LanguageExchangeRegistration)) **First Time? / What is a language exchange?** If you've never been to a language exchange (many people haven't) we wrote an article for first timers (based on our 8+ years of running language exchanges). It's a comprehensive article and well worth reading: [https://bit.ly/firstTimeAtTheLanguageExchange](https://bit.ly/firstTimeAtTheLanguageExchange) **===== EVENT FORMAT =====** When you arrive, you receive a badge with your native language and the languages you would like to learn. Place them on your chest with your native language on the right and other languages you are learning on the left. Then go meet people and exchange languages! What to bring: Pen and Paper and good vibes! Age Group: 18+ **===== FREE BEER AND PIZZA FOR FRIENDLY VOLUNTEERS! =====** We're looking for friendly volunteers who want to help out and welcome newcomers to the group. We provide free beer/drinks and food (pizza wedges etc) and a friendly team of other volunteers to hang out with. If it's your first time at the event, you're welcome to applt - our volunteers are often newcomers too :-) To find out more about volunteering at our language exchange, please see the link below: [https://bit.ly/NTM-Lang-Exchange-volunteering](https://bit.ly/NTM-Lang-Exchange-volunteering) **===== Group Rules =====** We pride ourselves on running events where people feel safe and open to making new friends. To protect our group members, we have several rules in place: 1\. This is \*not\* a dating group\, please do not ask for people's numbers / socials\. Contact them via the meetup\.com private chat if you want to get in touch\. 2\. Please do not advertise other groups / events / tours on this page or to this groups attendees during / after events\. 3\. Please do not advertise products and services \(e\.g\. MLM / mentorship\)\. Please do not ask our attendees to complete surveys\. 4\. Please do not add people to wechat / whatsapp groups\. By join our group or attending our events, you agree to these rules. If you attend an event and someone is breaking these rules, you can speak to the host if you wish. **===== MENU🍔 =====** The management gave us a special menu with some cheap eats :-)🍟 This section will be updated soon. **===== NEW TO MELBOURNE! =====** This event is run by New to Melbourne! We run fun and affordable event for people mostly between 18-35 including: international students, backpackers and even some locals :-) To get notifications about upcoming events, click the subscribe button on our events page here: **www.facebook.com/NewToMelb/events** You can follow us here: Facebook: **https://www.facebook.com/NewToMelb** Instagram: **https://www.instagram.com/Newtomelbourne** Seeyou soon! :-)

Adults have basically been robbed of the right to play. Creativity started needing a purpose, a product, or at least a gallery invite. Meanwhile, it’s human to dance, it’s human to sing, and it’s human to draw, especially poorly! Sketchy Behaviour is here to break that spell. ([Link to tickets here](https://www.trybooking.com/DIGHO)) Doors open at 6pm, settle in and get your drinks at the bar (mocktails available). At 7pm, the night begins: • Guided drawing activities with your host, prompts and visual inspiration provided • Three activities/games per night a mix of collaborative chaos and solo scribbling • Breaks between rounds to regroup, hit the bathroom, top up a drink, grab some nibbles, and mingle with fellow doodlers It’s all about connecting through process rather than polishing a product. Expect laughter, strange drawings, and surprising conversations. In a world drowning in increasingly polished AI art, making something imperfect is a revolutionary act. Supplies provided. Masks welcome. Sharing your weird creations, highly recommended. Come draw like a kid, laugh like a fool, and leave with memories instead of masterpieces. Note: Pride of our Footscray is located on the first floor of a building with no elevator and is therefore not wheelchair accessible. We apologise for our reduced accessibility.

Jewellers can hire a desk in our workshop to make or finish off their own pieces. This workshop is self run, you need to attend a health and safety induction before working daily unattended. Basic jewellery making tools are provided and some consumables such as flux, borax, tumbling polish, lathe polish and some drill bits. Aprons and safety glasses are provided, tie up loose hair, wear enclosed shoes. Please email claw.creative.studios@gmail.com for any questions or inquiries. Clara Carija, Director CLAW CREATIVE.

**Brewmanity** is a popular rooftop bar with stunning views of the CBD. Arrive from 6pm so you can watch the changing light as the setting sun shines over the city. After sunset we will then have the nighttime view of the CDB to enjoy. A perk of being early: Happy hours 4pm-6pm: $8 Schooners $8 Basic Spirits $7 Wines $15 Aperols, Espresso martinis and Margaritas 📍Location: Brewmanity rooftop, level 1, 50 Tope Street, South Melbourne VIC 3205 Most people come along by themselves so don't worry if you don't know any of the other members. Come along for relaxed socialising and making new friends in a change of scenery. New people are always welcome. We have all been the new person at some point in time. **How often do we have events? Weekly!** Join us at a different bar/pub each week to meet new people and see the familiar faces of the regular members. This is a regular weekly group for socialising and unwinding for the weekend. Events are also on: Meet New People, Make Real Friends [https://www.meetup.com/casual-catchups-and-cool-connections/](https://www.meetup.com/casual-catchups-and-cool-connections/) Bartopia [https://www.meetup.com/bartopia/](https://www.meetup.com/bartopia/) Bartopia [https://www.facebook.com/groups/bartopia/](https://www.facebook.com/groups/bartopia/) Follow us on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/bartopia.melbourne/](https://www.instagram.com/bartopia.melbourne/)

**Master Taiwanese-Japanese fusion and assemble your own gourmet bento with Cristina — a journey of flavour, history, and wine.** TICKET: $175/pp Ticket link: [https://www.globalfoodsocial.com/event-details/atasteoftaiwancookingclass](https://www.globalfoodsocial.com/event-details/atasteoftaiwancookingclass) ###### **WHAT YOU'LL EXPERIENCE** Celebrate the fusion of Taiwanese heritage and Japanese influence in this hands-on workshop that offers an immersive look at a 90s immigrant success story and the culinary evolution of Taiwanese food culture. Your experience begins with a traditional tea ceremony and a refreshing welcome drink before you dive into the craft of preparing a range of authentic Taiwanese and Japanese dishes. Under the expert guidance of Cristina, you will assemble your own gourmet bento box to enjoy at our communal dining table, with plenty of your hard work left to take home. This session promises a nostalgic and educational vibe, blending personal history with the joy of communal cooking. No experience required! **WHAT YOU'LL GET** * Learn about the fundamentals of Taiwanese cuisine, ingredients, and flavours * Master a range of cooking techniques * Learn how to make a range of delicious Taiwanese dishes * Sit back, relax, and enjoy the meal with good company **SAMPLE MENU** Onigiri and Temaki, Zaru Soba, Taiwanese Fried Pork Cutlet, Gomae, Cabbage and bacon stir-fry, miso soup. (Vegetarian/Dairy Free Options Available - please let us know at checkout) Limited tickets are available, so secure yours now for an unforgettable experience! TICKET: $175/pp Ticket link: [https://www.globalfoodsocial.com/event-details/atasteoftaiwancookingclass](https://www.globalfoodsocial.com/event-details/atasteoftaiwancookingclass)

Ramadan Sisters Iftar 🌙✨ Join us for a cozy Ramadan Iftar gathering for Muslim sisters in Melbourne. Let’s break our fast together, share good food, and connect in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re new to the city or simply looking to meet new friends, you’re more than welcome 💛 Note: the payment is to ensure you are coming to iftar as we have to make the reservation and payment to the restaurant prior to our iftar day Note: the payment of $60 is the amount per adult and to confirm your reservation.

🎶✨ **Live Music Night at Boho Lounge** ✨🎶 Enjoy an evening of **live music** with the talented trio **Peter Sullivan, Andrea Lees, and Harry Mullany**, performing a great mix of classic hits from the **1960s through to the 1980s**. 🕕 **Time:** 6 PM – 9 PM 📍 **Location:** **Boho Lounge** Come along, enjoy the music, and **grab a bite to eat or a drink** in our relaxed, welcoming space. Feeling fancy? 🍸 **Cocktails are just $16**, making it the perfect night to unwind with friends. Whether you’re here for the nostalgia, the live tunes, or the cocktails, it’s set to be a fun, feel-good evening at Boho.

It's been 11 years since one of our favorite authors\* passed away. Join us for a drink and a toast to celebrate his life and the impact his books have had on our lives with your fellow Discworld fans. When: 2:00 pm, Saturday, the 14th of March Where: Melbourne Central Lion hotel on Level 3 https://www.melbournecentral.com.au/centre-info/centre-map We will be inside in the back section. The booking is under Angelene (The Klatch). RSVP: by hitting "going" so we know how many to expect \*GNU Terry Pratchett

Join us as we get together for a CMG-favorite event, the OSCAR PARTY AND RED CARPET BASH at the Drexel Theatre! The highlight of the movie year live on the big screen always makes for a fun and memorable evening! Here are details for this event: WHAT TO EXPECT: This year’s ceremony will be hosted once again by Conan O’Brien. In addition to the Oscars on the big screen, your ticket includes a Meal Deal from the Drexel’s new food partner Newfangled Kitchen (I’m checking on vegetarian/vegan options) along with unlimited popcorn and sodas, a free box of candy, and your first beer, wine or specialty drink on the house! Also included: Oscar-themed trivia with prizes from local businesses, on-site paparazzi, and the Drexel's Oscar ballot contest with a chance to win a year of free Drexel movies! Plus, the BEST and most FUN way to watch the Oscars with fellow film fans and your CMG friends! ADVANCE TICKETS: General public tickets are $45 but Movie Group Members and their guests get in for just $35! Here’s how to purchase your tickets: \* Option 1 – In Person: You can purchase at the ticket counter anytime during operating hours. Just mention you are with the Columbus Movie Group for the discounted rate. \* Option 2 – Online: If you prefer to purchase online, you can do so by going to the link below and following these instructions: 1. Click the link below. 2. Click the little TICKETS box then click BUY TICKETS. 3. If you are a Drexel Member, you can log in here to receive the Member/Group rate, which is the same. If you are not a Drexel member, click “No” and the $40 Rate will pop up. But, don’t fret. It’s a little hard to find but there’s a “Promotion Code” section on the screen. Click the “Know a Promotion Code?” box, enter “CMG2026” (case sensitive) and submit. Select the appropriate number of tickets in the Discount Rate section and click “Add.” Next “Proceed to Checkout” then “Checkout” and enter your credit card info. There’s a $1.50 online service fee but it’ll save you a trip to the Drexel. (If you don’t already have one, you will need to sign in or create an account first.) Sellout possible so please purchase yours as soon as possible in advance! LINK FOR TICKETS (See Above Instructions): https://prod1.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=373546\~e2e0a350-c626-4e33-bc63-27e983f4aecf&epguid=ab0b2f82-403c-4972-9998-5475e7dcfa0e&mdy=3/15/2026& DRESS: Dressing up for the occasion art of part of the fun! Dress up as much as you like – there will be everything from casual to formal at the event! Or you can go in character as one of this year’s nominated films! ARRIVAL: Doors open for CMG at 5:30pm so that’s when we’ll plan to meet! That’ll give us plenty of time to fill out our Oscar Ballots, pick up some free popcorn, candy, and something to drink, mix, mingle, take some photos, pick up your Newfangled Kitchen Meal Deal, grab a seat in our CMG Reserved Section, then settle in to enjoy the Academy Awards on the Big Screen! PICTURES: We’ll take pics throughout the evening and the Drexel Paparazzi will be on hand as well. We’ll also take a big group photo around 6:40 near the entrance before the show begins. If you happen to take some good shots yourself, be sure to upload them on the Oscar Party Meetup event! RESERVED SEATING: As you enter the theater, the roped off section to the right marked “Reserved” is reserved for you, your guest(s) and the Columbus Movie Group! VEGAN MEALS: As previously mentioned, the food vendor does NOT have a vegan option at this year’s Oscar Party. However, we DO have a solution! I have reached out to several individuals who are affected. If you are a vegan, plan to attend the Oscar Party and did not receive an e-mail from me, please reach out via private message post a note below. I’ll provide details off-line. And while there won’t be a vegan meal option this year, I think we do have a workable solution. And, all other plans are usiness-as-usual: popcorn, sodas, candy, on-site paparazzi, decorations, bar drinks (including your first drink on the house), the Drexel’s Annual Oscar ballot contest, along with the Big Show on the Big Screen and a fun group of Movie Group friends to watch ‘em with! BONUS LINKS: \* COMPLETE LIST OF NOMINEES: https://deadline.com/lists/2026-oscar-nominations-list/ \* INTERESTING ARTICLE ON RECORDS BROKEN, SUPRISING FACTS AND OSCAR FIRSTS: https://abc7.com/post/oscar-nominations-2026-surprising-facts-nominees-98th-oscars/18448908/ \* SHORT VIDEO MONTAGE OF THIS YEAR’S BEST PICTURE NOMINEES: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3abMnrsaUA \* FUN VIDEO OF OSCAR NOMINEES HEARING THEIR NOMINATIONS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6eY1yGQ2aU PARKING: Parking is available along Main Street in front of the theater, on Drexel Avenue, and other nearby side streets. Additional parking is available at the Bexley Municipal Parking Lot (two driveways west of the theatre). LINK: Should be a fun & festive evening and a terrific way to celebrate a great year of movies together! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

Join us for happy hour and then **BINGO**! *Bingo starts at 6:30pm*. Feeling lucky? Many from our group win cash and prizes at this bingo! Great happy hour prices and maybe some 💰! Three games, 5 rounds each. Each game, buy 2 cards/$5, 4 cards/$10, etc. **BRING CASH!** [Pastimes](https://www.pastimespubandgrill.com/crosswoods/) is a neighborhood sports bar with a creative and fresh food menu, delicious cocktails, infused liquors, and very cold beer!

I hope you'll join me at [Carfagna's](https://carfagnas.com/) AMAZING complex on Gemini/Polaris. *Live, local acoustic music during dinner.* **Come by early for happy hour til 6pm.** Or, join us for dinner; show time is 6-9PM, Thursday. Reservation at 6pm for 12 under Michele Z (overflow can linger near the bar). Each Thursday they host live music in their beautiful upscale bar at **Carfagna's Ristorante**; but you need to check out everything this place has to offer Italian under one roof!!

Let’s knock down some pins and knock back a few drinks while we’re at it. Bowling is one of the best stress relievers out there, so bring your A game and let’s see what you’ve got. It’s $20 per person, which includes free shoe rental and two hours of open bowling. We’ll start with six people per lane. Once we have six, we’ll grab our lane and get rolling. If more people show up after that, we’ll snag the lane right next to us and keep the party going. Come ready to have some fun.

I’m not sure yet how many weekday events we’ll end up doing, but I’ve been told happy hours are always a good time. So let’s give it a try. Come meet up at PastTimes for some happy hour drinks, good food, and even better conversation. It should be a fun way to unwind and finish out the rest of the week. 🍻