First dates are a lot like job interviews: good impressions count, awkwardness is inevitable and outcomes are mostly unpredictable. In saying this, there are a few things you can do to help you along.
Firstly, get the location right, and you’re half way there. For us, the best places to have a first date are ones that allow you to have a conversation and not have to shout to be heard. At the same time you need enough atmosphere so that you don’t feel like you have to talk all the time.
Everyone’s idea of a classic first date is some variation of dinner-and-a-movie. While there’s nothing wrong with this strategy, there are so many other fun and interesting places in Canberra that would make great places for a first date. Here are our six picks:
Akiba
Akiba is a great place for a first date during the day time, or at night. They have delicious Yum Cha during the day on weekends which is fun and definitely adds a bit of surprise to the date. For dinner, it’s the ultimate test for sharing as that’s how the menu is designed. If we were to recommend one thing, it would be the pork belly buns, they’re delicious!
Bicicletta
Hard to say (bit-chick-lettah) but easy to settle into and enjoy casual, quality Italian food in one of our trendiest suburbs, NewActon. Pizza and pasta for dinner is a great option for a first date, it can be shared (score!) and Bicicletta also does an Italian inspired late breakie on weekends until 3:00pm.
Chifley’s Bar and Grill at Hotel Kurrajong
Chifley’s has just been renovated and boasts a cool art deco design. Chifley’s Bar & Grill – named in honour of its long-time resident, Prime Minister Ben Chifley, will make for some great conversation. Click here to read our most recent dining review for menu suggestions.
Floresco in the Gardens
Floresco in the Gardens is located at the Australian National Botanic Gardens and is picturesque. A great place to go for brunch, and if you want to keep hanging out with each other (because, your never know?) a stroll afterwards in the gardens is really nice.
Haha Bar
Described as a cool, chill hangout for the bohemian, creative types who like to go for a late breakfast (brunch) and lounge around on comfy lounge chairs for extended periods of time. Try the sweet French Toast. They also have super a super cool night vibe and frequently host art and live music shows. Take your date here if you want to have a really fun time with lots going on.
Les Bistronomes
Les Bistronomes is the perfect place if you really want to impress your date. It’s a fine dining French restaurant with stunningly presented and yummy food. We dare you to try the Escargot Et Fillet De Porc en Persillade – Garlic Snails & Pork Loin with Parsley Cream… That could make for an interesting experience together!
And there you have it! Six great places for a first date in Canberra. Now, all you have to do is pick up the phone, make a booking (in true gentleman style!) and decide what to wear. Good luck!
