Dinner club connects strangers over shared meals

A new dinner club in Las Cruces gave residents a chance to meet new people when participants gathered March 19 at Sunset Grill on the Sonoma Ranch Golf Course for the latest event. 

Organized by Live Love Las Cruces, the monthly events match participants into groups of six people, creating a setting designed to encourage conversation and connection as participants get to know people they had not met before. The concept was introduced after community members expressed difficulty meeting others, especially those new to the area.  

“I’ve had a lot of subscribers tell me they’re new to town and don’t know how to meet people,” said Charlie Barks, founder of Live Love Las Cruces.  

Participants sign up online and complete a short quiz before being matched with others, with each group assigned to a restaurant that remains a surprise until the day of the event. Barks said the structure adds an element of anticipation while keeping the focus on interaction. 

“The idea is to meet five new people and hopefully make connections that last beyond the dinner,” Barks said.  

During the event, attendees receive a second location for an optional after-dinner gathering, where groups can meet others who participated that evening and expand their connections.  

While the dinners are currently geared towards individuals, Barks said adjustments are being explored to better accommodate couples in the future as the program continues to grow.  

Feedback from participants has highlighted the opportunity to meet new people and try local restaurants they may not have otherwise visited, with some continuing to stay in touch after the events.  

Local restaurants also benefit from hosting the groups, often bringing in customers unfamiliar with their offerings. The next dinner is scheduled for April 16, and registration is available through the Live Love Las Cruces website. 

“In a world that’s becoming more digital, this gives people a chance to connect face-to-face,” Barks said.