If you're going on a first date you're probably not going to a restaurant for a full meal, at least, I don't recommend that! You don't want to be stuck with this person for that long if it turns out you hate them. That's why I've limited my first date suggestions to coffee houses and cocktail bars, so you can have a beverage then either choose to linger or get the hell outta there if need be.
Deville - A popular coffee shop for a casual date, cuz you're cooler than suggesting Starbucks. The coffee is excellent so worst case scenario at least there's that. Element - Located on 17th ave so you look trendy and cool.
Plus they are open late so you can do a later date if you want here. Monogram - Usually not loud or overly busy so you can have a good convo. Fantastic coffee and significantly nicer inside than a Tim Hortons multiple locations. Sensei Bar - A restaurant known for its fancy cocktails, and it's quieter so you don't have to yell at each other across the bar.
Options for beer or cocktails and lots of seating. Nice but not fancy. Find more options here for Speakeasys and here for Cocktail bars. Not your first rodeo?
If you've been dating a while and need some refreshed ideas, here's just the inspo you need to mix it up. Get a coffee to go from the East Village Sidewalk Citizen and maybe a pastry or one of their famous cinnamon buns too , then follow the river pathway for a nice afternoon walk. Grab some ice cream from Village Ice Cream's Britannia location and then walk a block west to Riverdale Park and enjoy the views of the river and city skyline.
