First question a newbie might have – what on earth is a munch? The mere sound of it probably makes you cringe. But actually, a munch could be your best first step into the BDSM/Fetish scene, especially if you’re a little nervous, discreet, live in a conservative community or aren’t into loud clubs.

A munch is a social get-together for people interested in the scene, usually held at a public venue like a quiet bar or restaurant. They aren’t decked out in full fetish regalia – rather, tend to wear their regular street clothes maybe with a hint of their lifestyle –and talk about everything from paddles to politics, from ropes to recipes.