Speed Working Events: New York Edition

In the big, bustling city that never sleeps, New York is a place where time is always ticking away. Sometimes it can feel like everything has a deadline, including an opportunity to pair up with a romantic interest. To capitalize on that fleeting feeling and offer a screen-free solution to the time-sucking swipe, New Yorkers are turning to speed dating events as a face-to-face way to connect with potential partners. 

Instead of searching online profiles for a match, a speed dating event allows you to meet dozens of individuals, all in one evening. It’s an old-school-meets modern trend, and it’s gaining in popularity. Here are a few speed dating events New York where you might hit it off with someone special. 

City Swoon

City Swoon claims speed dating is the most successful way to date and they could be right! In fact, their website guarantees a 95% chance of finding someone to whom you are attracted and a 90% mutual match rate. This company uses an algorithm to match individuals on-site, which is an interesting approach to combining modern technology with a classic dating approach. 

SpeedNY Working

Geared towards a swankier audience, SpeedNY focuses on upscale events in stylish lounges and rooftop bars. Often organizing age-specific meetups (like 25–39 or 40–55) and “single professionals” nights, SpeedNY is a top pick for career-driven daters who want an elegant backdrop while they look for love.

8 Minute Working

A company with time front-of-mind, 8 Minute Working keeps it to a simple formula: eight dates, eight minutes each. Sounds pretty straightforward, right? They claim that their smaller, more intimate gatherings held in cozy bars and restaurants are especially good if you’re inclined toward engaging in meaningful conversations over a crowded room.

NY Minute Working 

With a reputation as a longtime player on the scene, NY Minute Working also boasts variety. This event includes everything from traditional mixers to “lock and key” parties where participants literally unlock conversations with cards (a fun way to keep the exchanges lighthearted and playful). Their Midtown and Downtown Manhattan events are especially popular with young professionals looking for fun in fast-paced settings.

Tantra Institute

The Tantra Institute provides an open-minded and inclusive approach to the speed dating structure. With events specifically targeted to ENM and poly relationships (as well as traditional vanilla couples), this company has a full schedule of events across the five boroughs of New York. 

Tribester

More of a niche option, serving the Jewish singles community, Tribester runs speed dating and mixer events throughout New York. Tribester’s gatherings often attract people looking for cultural or faith-based connections, and they’re well-regarded for creating a welcoming environment to connect like-minded individuals.

Unlike meeting through dating apps, speed dating offers something more tangible: real-life chemistry. In just minutes, you can sense if you click with someone—without weeks of back-and-forth texting. Even if sparks don’t fly, it can still be a fun night out (especially in New York, one of the world’s most exciting cities).

If you meet someone and are unsure about sharing your private contact info, use a temporary Dialappify online number to follow up and make future plans while keeping yourself safe in the meantime.