Eating & Drinking

We will be at **State of Grace Rooftop** for after work chats! This is a popular venue with eclectic decor and views of the city 📍 Address: 27 King Street, Melbourne Vic 3000 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 Join us 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/)

**🍕 Eat, Drink, Dance… and Actually Eat This Time: Choose‑Your‑Own Eat & Walk Evening 🍕** **Update moved to Wed 25** Look, I’ve realised something slightly embarrassing: the Eat activity in the Eat Drink Dance Melbourne title has been treated like the quiet kid in the group project. Neglected. Overlooked. Underfed. Time to make amends — with carbs, twilight, and a little light cardio. We'll head down to Topolino Pizza in St.Kilda on Fitzroy St. They have a big menu if you'd prefer something different and prefer a drink as well. **Location:** [Topolino Pizza ](https://maps.app.goo.gl/qFsqY2HMcfYFYbBj9) Because it’s a bit too sweethearty to plonk down at dinner with total strangers straight away, we’re warming things up with a breezy 5km ice‑breaker walk. Think of it as foreplay for pizza. **⏰ Start time: 6.00pm Sharp** ☑️**Check-In** with the organiser as soon as you arrive **⏳ Arrival time**: 5:45pm — Be on time — I’m cute 💕, so don't miss the fun!, I’m not waiting around. **⏱ If you’re late**: Meet us at Topolinos around 7.15pm and pretend you were there the whole time. **💃Etiquette**: Order your meal or beverage at the register. No table service, no split bills. **🌙 Evening & Twilight Walk Route** We’ll glide (or shuffle, no judgement) from the Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre near the Shrine of Remembrance, wander past the Melbourne Aquatic Centre, the swans and fish at Albert Park lake, and finish triumphantly at Topolinos Pizza Restaurant — where the real bonding begins. **🍽 Choose Your Own Adventure (Carb Edition**) **Option 1 — Walk + Pizza** Join the evening parade all the way to Topolinos and reward yourself with pizza or whatever edible joy calls your name. Make your own way home after banter, food and drinks. **Option 2 — Pizza Only** Skip the walk, arrive fresh and fabulous at Topolinos, and meet the sweaty romantics who did the trek. Be there around 7.15 PM. Look for the ravenous bunch. **Option 3 — Walk + Pizza + Walk** For the overachievers, romantics, and people who “just love steps”: walk to Topolinos, feast, then stroll back through the lovely twilight around Albert Park lake to the Shrine and Visitor Centre. Carbs in, carbs out, smug glow achieved. **✨ Vibe Check** Fun. Flirty. Lightly chaotic. A little wholesome, a little unhinged, and very Melbourne. Come for the walk, stay for the pizza, leave with new friends, a warm glow, and possibly a new favourite ritual. **Note**: Last time I ran this, the No Shows vanished into the night like mischievous goblins… and they’re no longer in the group. If you can’t make it, just update your RSVP so your spot can go to someone who will appear in human form.” I am closing the RSVP one day before the event, if you are on the waitlist and would still like to attend, please contact the organiser directly. 👀**Group Rules and Event Etiquette** **Fitness Requirements**: **Walking:** 3 to 4km/hr Ensure you have adequate fitness, it's unfair for the group to wait extended periods for you. You may be asked to exit the event as a consequence. **Very Fast or Very Slow People** It's a group activity the organiser can't manage the group if people are everywhere, please consider going by yourself, joining faster groups or having adequate fitness. **Busy People** Best to give yourself some wiggle room, or not attend the event if you have time constraints. Things rarely go to time, especially when having fun. **⚠️+++VERY IMPORTANT+++** **People Who Do A No Show**. This is far too common for small group events, there may be people on a waitlist wanting to come and unable to because of your **No Show*, hence very inconsiderate. Remove yourself from the going list at least 24 hours before the event to give people on the waitlist an opportunity. **If you do a No Show you will likely be removed and blocked from the group**. If you remove yourself from the event an hour or two before the event **(flaking)** you may also be blocked and removed from the group, especially if there is a waitlist, very unfair to people on the waitlist. **People Not On The Going List** This is a major security concern, **DO NOT TURN UP RANDOMLY**.You will be asked to leave the event unless you have made arrangements with the organiser **PRIOR** to the event. **People Who Are Late** You will be left behind and or removed and blocked from the group as a **No Show**. It is your responsibility to communicate with the organiser if you will be late. It's up to you to catch up. This may not be possible for some events. **Second Chances** Please communicate with the organiser if you do not want to be blocked and removed from the group 🚩**Disclaimer: No Liability & Organiser Indemnity** By participating in this event, you acknowledge and accept full personal responsibility for your own safety, wellbeing, and belongings. The organiser assumes no liability for injury, loss, or damage incurred during the activity. Participation is entirely at your own risk. ---

Hi Radiant Ladies, Thursday night dinner at Mercure — looking forward to seeing you. Leanne & Lyn 💕 🅿️ Parking Info: If you’re coming from Doncaster Rd, take the third exit at the first roundabout to find the hotel car park. You’ll get 3 hours of free parking.

🍻Come to the language exchange in Melbourne! 🌍Practice your preferred language while making new friends and getting to know more about new cultures. THURSDAYS 👉🏻Where? DIESEL BAR, 202 Little Lonsdale St. ⏰What time? From 18:00 to 22:45 👨🏻‍🎓🍻The first 50 international students who register at the QR CODE entrance will get a free drink. 🤩5$ ENTRY + 1 free drink for non-students.

**Explore perfect pairing of Adelaide Hills wines with sustainable Australian produce with passionate host and expert Sandra at Whitebark Bar in West Melbourne!** **TICKETED EVENT** TICKET: $70 TICKET LINK: [https://www.globalfoodsocial.com/event-details/adelaidehillswineandfoodpairingmasterclass](https://www.globalfoodsocial.com/event-details/adelaidehillswineandfoodpairingmasterclass) NOTE: RSVP doesn't guarantee a place, please book your ticket at the link. **WHAT YOU'LL EXPERIENCE** Guided by **sommelier and owner Sandra Petrovski**, explore a handpicked selection of **five boutique Adelaide Hills regional wines** with perfectly paired bites featuring **Australian produce** focusing on sustainable proteins and balanced with the vibrant flavours of **local herbs, native greens, and wild botanicals.** Throughout the evening, we will explore a curated selection of the region’s finest: starting with a crisp **O'Leary Walker Traditional Method Sparkling**, followed by two distinct whites including a **mineral-driven style** and a **Chalk Hill Chardonnay**, and concluding with **two expressive reds** ranging from light to medium-bodied. **Sip, savour, and connect** with fellow wine lovers as you enjoy perfectly paired bites in a relaxed, social setting. **Whether you're a wine novice or a connoisseur, come solo or bring your friends along for an engaging and enjoyable evening.** **WHAT YOU'LL GET** * **Varietal Exploration:** Dive into the world of five Adelaide Hills regional wines each with its own tale to tell * **Pairing Bites:** Enhance your tasting experience with a delectable selection of Australian produce * **Wine Wisdom:** Learn from our knowledgeable host about the intricacies of each varietal * **Socialise and Sip:** Connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, share your passion, and make lasting connections Limited tickets are available, so secure yours now for an unforgettable experience! **TICKETED EVENT** TICKET: $70 TICKET LINK: [https://www.globalfoodsocial.com/event-details/adelaidehillswineandfoodpairingmasterclass](https://www.globalfoodsocial.com/event-details/adelaidehillswineandfoodpairingmasterclass) NOTE: RSVP doesn't guarantee a place, please book your ticket at the link.Tas

Hi everyone, Hope you are off to a good start in '26! Our first event for the year will be drinks at the Brighton Beach Hotel (beer garden) on Saturday 21st Feb. Please rsvp if you will attend (and update if you can no longer attend) as will need to advise the venue of attendee numbers. I look forward to seeing you there. Kind regards, Peter.

This year's Lunar New Year starts on 17 February. So in honour of the Year of the Horse and having listened to your suggestions for the letter B, we're going to Box Hill. **ITINERARY (TBC)** 11am - Meet at the entrance of Box Hill Train Station. This is the plan: * Visit Fo Guang Shan Box Hill Temple * Yumcha for lunch (or equivalent Asian food) * See a lion dance together (if there's one when we're there) * Visit an Asian supermarket. In short, we're going to wander around and soak up the Lunar New Year ambience, Box Hill style. P.S. There's an organizer fee of $10 for this event. You can PayID me at 0403 413 056 (Serena Low). **Note:** I am capping the group at 9 persons to fit a round table in a Chinese restaurant and because yumcha servings typically come in threes. If you are no longer able to attend, please update your status to Not Going.

🥟🔥 **Momos, Mirth & Magnificent Flavours!** 🔥🥟 **Dinner at Aagaman Indian–Nepalese Restaurant, Rosanna** Calling all adventurous eaters (and confirmed **momo freaks** — yes, it’s absolutely a THING 😆) from the **Melbourne Women’s Over 50 Friendship Group – Northern Branch**! We’re off to **Aagaman Indian Nepalese Restaurant** for a dinner that’s a little bit different and *very* delicious. Expect gorgeous Nepalese flavours alongside Indian favourites — think dumplings you dream about, spices that flirt (not shout), and plates you’ll want to talk about all night. 📅 **Friday 21st February** 🕕 **6:00 PM** 📍 **137 Lower Plenty Rd, Rosanna VIC 3084** Why you’ll love it: 🥟 Nepalese momos (steamed, juicy, legendary) 🌶️ Fabulous, less-ordinary flavours 😂 Laughter, friendship, and zero cooking or washing up Come hungry, come curious, and come ready to declare your undying love for dumplings. This is dinner with personality — and excellent company to match. ✨ RSVP wisely — momo regret is real if you miss out 😉 MENU: https://aagamanrestaurant.com.au/aagaman-rosanna-lower-plenty-rd/ Parking over the road and around the corner. At 6pm won't be an issue.

**🌊 Ocean Promenade Walk – Brighton Beach to Fed Square via Beacon Cove** Saturday 21 February @ 10 a.m, please meet at 9.45 am \| 16 km of flirty fun\, fresh air\, and cheeky chats. Moderate to Difficult walk mainly because it's looooong! **_⚠️Read about optional train share from Flinders St to Brighton later_** Let’s take the scenic route to connection — join us for a playful oceanfront walk from Brighton Beach to Fed Square (Transport Bar) via Beacon Cove, with plenty of stops for snacks, chats, and cheeky banter along the way. This is Eat, Drink and Dance Melbourne in motion: flirty, social, and full of potential. Celebrate the end of the journey with drinks or food at Transport Bar @ Fed Square **+++Ensure you read the rules at the end before joining. Registering = agreeing to them+++** **👟 The Route** We’ll stroll the stunning 16 km ocean promenade, hugging the coastline from Brighton Beach to Fed Square (Transport Bar) via Beacon Cove and South Bank. Expect sea breezes, café pit stops, and plenty of chances to mingle. Whether you’re here for the views or the vibe, this walk is all about connection — with the ocean and each other. Feel free to exit at any point if the effort or heat becomes a tad too much. Public transport short cuts at St.Kilda and Port Melbourne. **🍽️ Food Stops & Flirty Pauses** We’ll pause at scenic cafés and food stops along the way — perfect for grabbing a coffee, sharing a snack, or sparking a conversation. At the end, we’ll celebrate with fish and chips at Beacon Cove, or hop a tram back to Transport Bar for a cheeky drink or meal around 3 p.m. **🚉 Two Ways to Join** **Option 1**: Meet us at Brighton Beach Train Station at 9.45 am, Departing at 10a.m (last train from Flinders St.) Meet us on the car park side of the platforms for city going trains where the ticket office and toilets are. * **Option 2: Train share** Meet near Transport Bar (Federation Square), on the south western corner alongside the princes bridge and walkway at 9 am to catch the 9:17 a.m. Well leave the corner about 9.10 am. Sandringham train together (35-minute ride). This isn’t just a walk — it’s a moving mixer. Come solo or bring a friend, but be ready to meet someone new, share a laugh, and maybe even spark a little post Valentine's Day chemistry. Please take water and snacks along with sunscreen. Having comfortable walking shoes and clothes is definitely a bonus. **⚠️ Group Rules & Event Etiquette ⚠️** These are basic, commonsense standards that keep events safe, smooth, and enjoyable for everyone. **👟 Fitness Requirements** Walking: 3–4 km/hr We walk at a relaxed pace. Please ensure you meet the fitness level for the event. If the group is forced to wait excessively, you may be asked to leave the event. **⛹️ Pace: Too Fast or Too Slow** Small social events rely on staying together. If you prefer a very different pace, consider going solo, joining a faster/slower group, or choosing events that match your fitness. **👩‍💼 Time Constraints** If you’re on a tight schedule, this may not be the right event. Social activities rarely run exactly on time. **⚠️ CRITICAL EXPECTATIONS ⚠️** **👻 No‑Shows** No‑shows block waitlisted people from attending and disrupt small-group events. - Remove yourself at least 24 hours before the event. - No‑shows will likely be removed and blocked from the group. - Last‑minute cancellations **(“flaking”)** may also result in group removal, especially when there is a waitlist. **👀 Attending Without Being on the Going List** This is a security issue. **Do NOT turn up unannounced**. If you’re not on the Going list and haven’t arranged it with the organiser beforehand, you will be asked to leave. Event check‑ins are performed. **⏰ Late Arrivals** If you’re late, the group will not wait. - You may be marked as a No‑Show and removed from the group. - It’s your responsibility to communicate and catch up—this may not be possible for some events. **🎲 Second Chances** If something goes wrong, communicate with the organiser. Silence + poor behaviour = removal. Communication + accountability = second chances. As the organiser is busy organising this may be impossible during the event. **🚩Disclaimer: No Liability & Organiser Indemnity By participating in this event, you acknowledge and accept full personal responsibility for your own safety, wellbeing, and belongings. The organiser assumes no liability for injury, loss, or damage incurred during the activity. Participation is entirely at your own risk.**

**💘 Eat, Drink & Dance Melbourne: The Pre‑Valentine’s “Last‑Minute Love Grab” Party** 💘 Friday 20 February 7:00pm – 10:00pm Lustre Bar, Flinders Lane **##### !! Update - Moved to Fri 20 Feb** Melbourne, assemble your charm, your courage, and your most persuasive eyebrow raise — because Valentine’s Day has come and gone, and this is your final chance to secure a date before the city descends into roses, prix‑fixe menus, and smug couples holding hands like they invented affection. Join us at Lustre Bar, where the cocktails sparkle, the lighting forgives, and the mood is set firmly to romantic chaos. This is a night for the bold, the hopeful, the delightfully unhinged, and anyone who refuses to spend Saturday eating supermarket chocolate and tubs of ice cream like a lonely Chewbacca on the couch (again). **⚠️Expect**: * Flirty icebreakers that make “So what do you do?” feel like a relic of a more boring civilisation * Silly mini‑games designed to nudge strangers into becoming “entangled parties of interest” * A soundtrack calibrated for maximum swoon‑potential * A room full of people who are also pretending they’re “just here for fun” By 10pm, those who have successfully paired, tangled, or otherwise conspired with another human will be invited to continue the adventure as we spill into a dance venue of our choosing. Think of it as the Valentine’s Migration: a flock of seagulls abd romantically‑charged humans moving gracefully (or not) toward a dance floor where destiny, chemistry, and questionable rhythm await. Whether you leave with a Valentine, a new crush, or simply a great story, you’ll be in excellent company. **Dress code**: Cute, confident, or chaotically optimistic. **Vibe**: Romantic comedy meets mild social experiment. **Goal**: Snatch a Valentine before the clock strikes midnight on Cupid’s deadline. Come for the cocktails. Stay for the chemistry. Dance for the glory.

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! 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 PS FOR VEGETARIANS / VEGANS: I'm checking with the Drexel now to confirm that veg / vegan options will be available. Their regular menu DOES list both options so I think we should be okay. I'll update this note once confirmed.

**It's National Margarita Day!** Let's throw off our winter blahs and bask in the delight of margaritas and mexican food! We'll find a good spot...or, two to gather for drink specials, food and fiesta. [El Vaquero](https://www.vaquerorestaurant.com/menus) on Rte 161 Dublin has a huge bar area where we'll meet. Those wanting to sit down and eat dinner can grab a seat at our reserved table. Those just there for margs and chips n salsa can hang out in the bar. Their wonderful ***Happy Hour lasts til 8pm every night - Jumbo Margarita $9.99 Flavor $10.99!***

**This is the biggest party in town!** ***Come help us enjoy the luckiest day of the year!*** The Irish Pub and outside overflow tent have Irish Beer, Whiskey and Food. Inside the giant tent the best local Irish bands perform while Irish dancers parade by and the Columbus fife and drum invade each late afternoon. **COVER CHARGE: $20.00** **4pm** - [Drowsy Lads](http://www.thedrowsylads.com/) Named as “The Best Irish-American Band” the 20 year performing veterans have galvanized their place amongst Irish and folk music’s must see acts. You’ll have a blast… and the band will be arm in arm beside you! **7pm** \- Ladies of Langford Since 1995, [Byrne’s Pub](https://byrnespub.com/) has served as a Grandview hub for all things Irish. In fact, co-owner Pat Byrne even operates a line of craft Irish whiskey, known as Bua. The Grandview Spot is also a huge patron of both Celtic music and bluegrass, as live musical guests from both genres perform at Byrne’s on the regular.