No matter your level of experience in the dating world, a promising first date will still make you nervous. On top of wondering what sort of impression you’ll make, what to wear, and how to avoid those awkward silences, you’ll also need to figure out where to meet. Choosing a spot for a first date can feel daunting, but here are a few tips to help you and your companion narrow it down.
Consider the Ambiance
First of all, think about what sort of atmosphere you’ll both feel comfortable in. If you’d like to get drinks, decide on whether that means a coffee at a coffee shop or a drink at a cocktail bar in NYC. A bustling bar already creates an atmosphere of casual conversation, says AskMen, but a coffee shop might feel more quiet and intimate and give you more opportunity to focus on one another. Getting a meal together allows for a more flexible choice of ambiance, as you can go for somewhere lively or somewhere quiet and romantic.
Consider Your Date
Take your date’s interests into consideration. While it does help to try to take the initiative in picking a place, it won’t mean a thing if you’re completely off the mark. If you’ve chatted a bit or exchanged some messages over a dating app, keep their interests in mind. You don’t want to suggest a date idea that they have no interest in.
Keep it Fun!
Above all, you’ll want to make sure that you choose something fun. Even if you pick a place on the quieter side, try not to get too serious. For example, don’t choose an upscale restaurant where an open conversation might feel awkward. You want to make sure that the both of you are going somewhere you’ll feel relaxed and comfortable. Of course, an NYC cocktail bar is always a good place to start to keep things casual (and make things easier with some liquid courage), but it pays to branch out into other possibilities.