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 this Groupon.

Choose from Three Options

• $21 for admission to any speed-dating event for one (up to a $44 value)
• $39 for admission to any speed-dating event for two (up to an $88 value)
$69 for admission to any speed-dating event for four (up to a $176 value)

Events take place at local hot spots, where singles mingle during crash courses in British-style speed dating. Icebreaker cards ensure a steady flow of conversation as pairs jot down potential matches for later email follow-ups. Singles' ages range from 21 to 42 for both men and women, and events often center on a theme.

SpeedPhoenix Dating

The British- and Bravo-approved SpeedPhoenix Dating assists aspiring singles in finding romance with two-hour bouts of sophisticated speed dating also featured on outlets such as TLC's Cake Boss, VH1, and the Discovery Channel. Affable hosts guide guests through the entryway of a moodily lit locale to begin striking chords with 18 singles of the opposite sex in the hope that a playful rendition of “Dueling Banjos” develops between heartstrings. After the staff seats each lady at her own secluded table, gentlemen jaunt from gal to gal, spending seven–eight minutes with each potential partner. As the minutes full of cheeky conversation and gourmet appetizers pass, participants make their decisions about date mates on provided cards and check their email 24 hours later to see if matches have been made.

Like the BBC News and the definition of chips, SpeedPhoenix Dating offers a British spin on familiar American tropes. Each speed-dating session eschews noisy whistles and impersonal nametags for civilized conversation enders and an email about fellow attendees prior to the event. Chic consultants also provide free optional makeovers for ladies 30 minutes before each event.