I often get asked by a lot of people, “What are some of your favorite casual. Fun restaurants to take a date to in DC?” Well, here they are: my top five casual favorite first date spots where even if things don’t go so well, it will still be fun. And if things do go well, you are going to want to linger longer.
Service Bar: Say hello to hands down, one of the best spots for cocktails! The atmosphere is super fun, they always have great 90’s R&B/Rap background music (Hi Tupac!) and the bartenders will make you feel right at home. I like this place for a first date because if things don’t go so well, the bartenders will make you feel less awkward and well, you will def enjoy your cocktail! There’s also markers to doodle on the bar if you’re bored. If things do go well though, order some fried chicken and ask to see if the sexy back “snug room” is available! It’s legendary #justsaying (More about Service bar HERE!)
The Smith: This restaurant has two locations in DC. I prefer the brand new one on U Street. Why? Because their French 75 slushies are everything and it’s only available at this location. This is the perfect casual spot for a first date. Start at the bar with some drinks, and perhaps share a pizza.If things are not working out, it’s an easy way out! If things heat up, ask for a table and perhaps end your night at their photobooth (awesomely located next to the bathroom) to remember that awesome date! Thank me later lovers!
Proper 21: Coolest sport bar in DC! You win instant points if you are dating someone who is into sports. Kudos to their delicious bar menu and pretty awesome happy hour specials. I also like that it’s casual but not too casual where it shows you did not care where to first meet! It’s right in front of Metro Center so very metro accessible in case things are not working out and need to rush home without taking out your phone to Uber! Lol but if things are working out, stay to watch an entire game and end your night with a shot! YOLO!!
Copycat Co: This place is super cool! Not fancy but you get points for knowing about it! Their cocktail game is strong. I love that they feature spirits from different parts of the world! They once had an entirely Bolivian inspired cocktail menu! I took myself on a date there around that time because why not! Lol If the date turns out to be as cool as the bar, stay for some yummy (and cheap) skewers and pot stickers! This is on H Street so if things get really wild, you can always end your night at Little Miss Whiskey! You are on your own from there! #gowiththeflow
Colada Shop: If drinking is not your thing and you rather meet for coffee/ juice I def suggest this place! Any time I visit Colada Shop I feel like I’m in Miami or Havana, Cuba! If the weather is nice, enjoy your coffee out on their front patio/bar while people watching, and if the chemistry between you both is good, perhaps order some empanadas to share?! If the chemistry is not there, finish your coffee and call it a day or stay a little longer to make new friends. They do also offer cocktails but I thought I’d share a place where you don’t need to have a cocktail to have fun or get to know each other!
There you have it! My top 5 places for first dates — or to try out anyways! Do you have any fun first date stories? Share them with me! I want in on the deets!! I’m not much of a serial dater, but perhaps this needs to change! #2018GOALS.
