When it comes to your first dinner date, there are a lot of things to consider. What should you wear? What should you talk about? How can you make sure the date goes well? To help you out, we’ve put together a list of seven things to keep in mind before your next dinner date. Read on for tips on everything from preparing for the date to making a good impression once you’re there.
1. Choosing The Right Spot
When it comes to choosing a restaurant, one of the most important things to consider is location. It’s best to choose somewhere that is not too far away and convenient for both parties.
If you’re still unsure, do some research online or ask your friends for suggestions. You can even get working coupons for most chain restaurants which are great if you’re looking to save some money. Olive Garden, Texas Roadhouse, and many other have these deals and great food.
Additionally, consider the atmosphere of the restaurant. Is it casual? Upscale? Do they have outdoor seating? These are all things to take into consideration when selecting a spot for your dinner date.
2. Making Reservations
Making reservations isn’t always necessary, but it can be helpful if you’re trying to avoid long wait times or crowded restaurants. Plus, it shows that you’ve taken the time to plan and think about your date’s comfort and convenience.
When making a reservation, make sure that you also provide any dietary restrictions or allergies – this will make ordering much easier. When calling the restaurant, make sure to speak clearly and give your name and reservation time. Most restaurants will also have a cancellation policy, so make sure to look into that in case you need to cancel or change your plans.
3. Dressing for the Occasion
When it comes to clothing, you want to make sure that you feel confident and comfortable. Consider the atmosphere of the restaurant when selecting your outfit – if it’s more upscale, opt for something dressier – if it’s a casual spot, jeans and a nice top will do.
Don’t forget to accessorize with jewelry or a scarf if you’d like. Avoid wearing anything too revealing or uncomfortable – after all, you don’t want to be distracted from your date by an ill-fitting shirt or skirt. Depending on the weather, you may also want to bring a sweater or jacket in case it gets chilly.
4. Being Polite
It’s important to remember that your date is a person too and deserves respect. Be polite throughout the entire meal – avoid being rude to waitstaff or getting into heated arguments with your date.
Listen intently when they are speaking and use good body language like making eye contact and smiling. Eating out can be intimidating, especially if you’re on a first date. To make sure you don’t embarrass yourself, brush up on some basic table manners beforehand such as using utensils correctly, not talking with your mouth full, and avoiding picking food out from between your teeth. If you don’t know the rules of a particular dish, it’s always better to ask than make assumptions.
5. Picking Up the Tab
Deciding who should pay for dinner can be tricky – especially on a first date. However, it’s important to remember that offering to pay or split the bill is always a kind gesture. If you’re comfortable with doing so, offer to pick up the tab or at least cover part of it as a sign of appreciation for your date joining you.
Also, make sure to tip the waitstaff appropriately – generally around 20%. If you’re on a tight budget, you can still be considerate and offer to pay for one course or the drinks instead. Also, look into one of the restaurants considered by the team at DealDrop so that you can get the best deal and be the one to pay for the bill.
6. Keeping The Conversation Going
Having a great conversation is essential for any dinner date. If you’re feeling nervous or stuck, ask your date open-ended questions and get them talking about themselves. Avoid talking about controversial topics such as politics or religion and keep things lighthearted and fun.
You can also share stories from your own life or talk about recent events in the news, but try to focus on getting to know each other better. At the end of the night, you want to leave a lasting impression on your date. Offer a polite goodbye and thank them for joining you for dinner – this will show that you appreciate the time and energy spent getting to know each other better.
Overall, a successful dinner date requires preparation and thoughtfulness. By following these tips, you can ensure that your evening will be enjoyable and memorable. From selecting the right restaurant to having a great conversation, it’s important to take all of these elements into account to create a pleasant experience for both of you. With a bit of planning and consideration, your dinner date is sure to be a success!
