It usually goes like this -
Top dating connection conduits from most to least effective
1: Mutual friend, acquaintance intros - mostly mediated by females. For this to work you have to be somewhat social and know a fair number of people, and the referring/introducing women in these social circles have to have a generally favorable opinion of you.
2: Online Dating (depending on circumstances and location this can often be more effective than mutual friend hookups above)
3: Bars, entertainment venues (concerts etc) , common interest hobby groups, clubs, outdoor sporting etc. activities
4: Wandering in grocery stores, bookstores (not very effective)