From talking too much about ex-boyfriends to not resembling your online dating profile picture at all, there are a lot of ways a first date can go wrong, but the location should not be one of them.
Here are eight cool places to start you off on the right foot when you’re meeting your (hopefully) summer love for the very first time.
Caffe Rosso
Rosso’s third and newest location is never overly busy and boasts a cute little patio. Sit down or grab a drink and then take a stroll through the East Village while you get to know each other. (425 11 Ave. S.E., 587-352-5080, cafferosso.ca, @cafferosso)
Cibo’s lounge is casual and inviting, with great pizza, salad and beer selections.
Cibo
With a gorgeous patio, a casual front lounge and an airy second level, this Italian eatery on 17th Avenue offers varied first-encounter environments all in one space. (1012 17 Ave. S.W., 403-984-4755, cibocalgary.com, @cibocalgary)
District Tavern
Aside from a quality craft beer menu, including microbrews made in-house, this upscale pub on 11th Avenue is always buzzing, but never too packed, so it’s the perfect place to have a conversation without having to yell or whisper. (607 11 Ave. S.W., 403-233-2433, calgarytavern.com, @calgarytavern)
Oak Tree Tavern
Tucked away above The Source snowboard shop in Kensington, Oak Tree is warm and inviting – a casual place to get to know someone over a pint of beer. The subdued lighting here is also pretty flattering. Hey, every little bit helps. (124 10 St. N.W., 403-270-3347, oaktreetavern.com, @oaktreeyyc)
Taste
This small space always offers a cozy atmosphere and an eclectic array of small plates. It’s ideal for sharing and great for curious palates. I mean, foodies should date like-minded foodies, right? (1210 1 St. S.W., 403-233-7730, taste-restaurant.ca, @tastecalgary)
Vin Room West
Always guaranteed to impress wine lovers, Vin Room’s elegant and comfy southwest location is the perfect date spot if you don’t want to venture into the core. (8561 8A Ave. S.W., 587-353-8812, vinroom.com, @vinroom)
Winebar: Kensington
Hip without being pretentious, Winebar is a fantastic, no-pressure environment. Whether you feel like just a glass of wine or a full-fledged first date dinner, it’s got you covered. (1131 Kensington Rd. N.W., 403-457-1144, winebarkensington.com, @winebarkensi)
Without Papers
Pizza always make for a great, casual date night. Best of all, service is efficient and food comes out quickly, so if the date is not going so well, you won’t be stuck at an awkward table for hours on end. (1216 9 Ave. S.E., 403-457-1154, wopizza.ca, @wopizza)