Frequently Asked Questions
A few things we're often asked. If your question isn't here, email us at shabbatclubaus@gmail.com.
Who is Shabbat Club Melbourne for?
Shabbat Club Melbourne curates events based on life stage, age, background, and the energy of the room. Right now the demand has been strongest in the 21–30 bracket, and that's where the majority of our events sit. Interest from the 35+ group is currently lower — so as that interest builds, we'll happily expand into events for a wider age demographic. For now, our focus follows where the demand is.
I've applied and haven't heard back — how does this work?
A couple of things may be happening: First, every new applicant goes through a light background check. We make sure your name matches who you are online, confirm your age, and cross-check a few other details. None of this guarantees an invitation — it's how we keep the room considered and safe for everyone at the table. Second, the next event may not be planned yet. We typically only announce a new event after the previous one wraps up, and we don't market events too far in advance unless they're already sold out. So if you haven't heard back, sit tight — you're in our system, and you'll hear from us when the next one opens.
Do you have to be Jewish to attend?
Absolutely not. This is an inclusive table and we genuinely welcome guests from every culture and background. We honour Shabbat as a tradition the same way you might walk into a Greek restaurant and enjoy the music, the food, and the plate-smashing — or step into a Mexican restaurant or Chinatown and take part in the culture there. You don't need to belong to a culture to honour it. That's the spirit of what we do.
What age is this for?
Predominantly 21–35. We don't currently have the resourcing or the demand to run events for other age groups — but that may change as the community grows.
Is this a singles event?
No, and we never will be. Melbourne already has plenty of dedicated singles and matchmaking events. Our focus is connection, friendship, culture, and a comfortable space for solo travellers, singles, and couples alike. If you happen to click with someone at the table — wonderful. But that's not the point of the night.
Is this kid-friendly?
No.
Why can only 22 people come to each dinner?
The intimate, curated dinner is the core of what we do. Twenty-two seats is what makes it feel the way it does — close enough for real conversation, considered enough to feel special, exclusive enough to be worth applying for. The format may evolve in time, but for now the limited seats are deliberate — the sell-outs, the FOMO, the carefully curated guest list, and the fancier vibe are all part of why people want to be there.
Why are the dinners "so" expensive?
Honestly — do the maths. In Melbourne right now, a cocktail is $22–$25, a main is around $40. That's $65 a head before you've even touched a challah, an entrée, dessert, room hire, styling, or any of the production that goes into making the night feel the way it does. Roughly 90% of your ticket goes directly to the restaurant. We've designed our pricing to be honest about what a beautifully hosted dinner at a venue we'd actually want to be at really costs.