The Future of Social

From online to offline

A startup called Time Left went from zero to $5 million in revenue in just six months building in SOCIAL—a notorious hard category. They are proving a fundamental shift: people are willing to pay for apps which offer curated access to the right people. The demand for exclusive, in-person experiences is surging, but algorithmic curation is just the start.

In New York and San Francisco, social clubs are making a huge comeback. Whether you’re looking to meet new friends, potential business partners, or even someone to date, these clubs provide an environment where those relationships happen organically, without the awkwardness of forced networking events.

Social Clubs That Are Changing the Game

If you’re thinking about joining a social club but aren’t sure which one fits your vibe, here’s a quick rundown of some of the best options in SF and NYC.

San Francisco’s Finest Hangouts

• The Battery – A laid-back, creative hub for entrepreneurs, artists, and intellectuals who prefer deep conversations over forced networking. Great wine list, easygoing atmosphere.

• The Modernist – Small, sleek, and design-forward. A spot for those who appreciate aesthetics, architecture, and intimate, curated gatherings.

New York City’s Elite Club Scene

• Zero Bond – Exclusive but relaxed, with a mix of creatives, finance pros, and celebs. Great events, good drinks, and a well-designed space where interesting people cross paths.

• Casa Cipriani – Classic luxury with a modern edge. Perfect if you want waterfront views, top-tier service, and a polished, upscale environment.

The Problem with Scaling Elite Clubs

The biggest challenge for any elite social club is balancing exclusivity with growth. When these clubs attempt to scale by adding more members, they often dilute the experience. Soho House is a prime example—once an ultra-exclusive haven for creatives, its rapid expansion has led to overcrowding, reduced quality, and, ultimately, declining stock value.

The New Flex: Health Over Wealth

Being part of a social club is no longer a flex for those in the eight or nine-figure wealth circles. In those rooms, people aren’t wearing Gucci or Prada anymore—the era of loud luxury is fading. The real status symbol among billionaires today? What they’re doing for their health.

Every year, Y Combinator hosts a reunion, and whoever speaks at it is often an indicator of the trend for the year ahead. In 2023, it was Sam Altman. In 2024, it was Bryan Johnson—the entrepreneur who sold his company to PayPal and is now on a quest to live forever. This shift speaks volumes: the wealthiest and most successful individuals are prioritizing longevity, optimization, and well-being over material status symbols.

Continuum Review: NYC’s Elite Wellness Playground

A new club I recently stumbled across is Continuum in New York City. Continuum is kind of like if Equinox and Soho House had a wellness obsessed socialite baby. Membership comes at a premium price but its the only club that includes more than just access to the space. Continuum members get access to complimentary gourmet meals, unlimited massages, red light therapy sessions, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. One thing that really sets it apart from other elite clubs though is a strict publicly stated membership cap of just 200 people. Haven’t seen any other club do this but I think this is going to be a new trend as people get increasingly fed up with the Soho House model of paying a bunch of money to go to a venue where you have to spend even more money to enjoy food or drinks.

Inner Youth: The Fountain of Fun

One of the biggest shifts in the social club space? It’s not just about status—it’s about staying youthful, active, and full of energy. The future of social clubs is all about “inner youth”—helping members feel as vibrant as they did when they first discovered brunch. Instead of stuffy networking events, expect biohacking workshops, guided cold plunges, and rooftop yoga sessions–typical silicon valley stuff is going mainstream!

"Wealth in Pursuit of Health" vs. "Health in Pursuit of Wealth"

There’s been a big mindset shift among today’s elite: Instead of hustling 24/7 and fixing health later, people are prioritizing fitness and mental well-being first, knowing success follows a sharp mind and strong body.

The Future of Social Clubs: More Than Just a Fancy Lounge

The best clubs of the future won’t just be about sipping craft cocktails (although that’s always a bonus). They’ll be about integrating fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being into the social experience. Continuum is definitely pioneering a bigger overall trend here.

So, what’s next? Expect social clubs to keep getting smarter, healthier, and more fun.