Dating can be like assembling the silver monkey in Legends of the Hidden Temple, a challenge requiring wits, luck, and passing knowledge of primate anatomy. Skip the confusing steps of pickup artistry with today's icebreaking Groupon: for $20, you get admission to two speed-dating or singles events from Hob Nob (up to a $50 value).

Hob Nob's matchmakers introduce potential Cupid targets during events and let them roam free together while bowling and horseback riding. Speed-dating events at a variety of eateries and bars seat participants with a rotating roster of up to 12 prospective paramours, swapping out companions every five to eight minutes like single-use car batteries. Participants rate possible mates on date cards, which they turn in to staff at the end of the evening. The next day, emails containing the contact info of mutual crushes elicit delighted blushes from inboxes. Locations vary, but past speed-dating meetings have taken place within the natural-light-soaked confines of Brix Tavern.

Singles events unfold in venues that encourage natural social interaction, such as bowling alleys, comedy clubs, cocktail bars, and surprise parties for water coolers. Patrons can opt to exchange numbers in person or via date cards or simply engage in platonic conversation with new buddies in a welcoming environment.