What is a Munch Anyhow?
A munch is an informal gathering of people interested in D/s lifestyle issues and similar topics. They’re called munches because generally food is served. At munches, people with similar interests socialize in a friendly and low-key atmosphere. Some are held in public places and discourage kinky dress or behavior, while others are held in private rooms and allow fetish wear, play, and demos. There are currently five active munches in and near to Pittsburgh.

The idea of attending an event where people with kinks and fetishes go can be very scary at first. Actually, there is nothing to be afraid of... it's a simple meeting of regular ordinary people you see around everyday.
Munches are held for a variety of reasons and no two are exactly alike. But all munches do have one thing in common, that is to welcome a newcomer to the fringe of the D/s community in a safe and sane manner. Some munches may just be an informal gathering of friends to discuss what's been going on where some may have a discussion topic and demonstrations. It's best to let someone, preferably the host or hostess, know that your coming. This way they know there will be a newcomer attending and may be able to find you someone to act as your "guide" for the evening.
The Pittsburgh area munches are generally a fair mix of Dominants and submissives. There are many couples that attend and some singles. The typical age range is from 25-50 with an even mix of males and females. You'll find a wide range of conversations and side-subjects being discussed. If you wish to join in one, be polite and ask if you may join. The D/s community values courtesy and politeness very highly.
Lets set one thing straight from the beginning... A munch typically is not a dating service... It's not a singles group... It's not a swinger's club. If the only reason you come to a munch is for that reason, you are likely to be disappointed.
What to wear, what to wear, what to wear. A munch is a casual event usually held in a public place. The thought of wearing that new sexy piece of fetish clothing may have crossed your mind, and that may be fine, if the establishment the munch is being held is appropriate for it. Most people just wear casual street clothes or perhaps what you may wear to your job.
As far as bumping into someone that you may know, don't worry, they are not going to go tell everyone that you know that you were at a kinky fetish event. Anonymity within the community is a very important issue. Handle bumping into someone that you know as if you ran into them at the supermarket. Remember, they may be a newcomer too and are just as unsure how to handle the situation as you are.
We firmly believe in munches as a gateway to this lifestyle. They provide a relaxed, casual setting to talk about your interests – and to decide if this is direction you want to go. Once you go to your first munch, chances are you'll have a good time and decide you want to attend more. We hope to see you at several of the Pittsburgh area munches.