Let’s talk about your love life, shall we?
Single, in a relationship, or married- dating is important. Going out on dates, spending time together- is important to the health of (or potential for) any relationship.
Let’s look at our standards for a great date place:
1- Atmosphere conducive to conversation- I’m not saying that every date must contain deep philosophical conversations- but really, the whole point is getting to know each other better, or rediscover each other. You can’t do that if you have to scream “What?” over the din of blaring televisions or the pumping bass of music. Don’t get me wrong- music venues and loud sports bars are fun- but not when it comes to dating.
2- Type of date is compatible with activity levels- This doesn’t mean that every date has to be in a restaurant, across a table, with dim lighting. If you both are active people- take a walk together, volunteer together, go bowling. These are all activities that are GREAT for dates because the activity doesn’t get in the way of getting to know each other. You learn something about your date when you go bowling that you can’t learn from sitting in a movie theater.
3- A place that makes you feel a certain way-relaxed, hip, sexy, etc. (COZY) When dating, especially in the early stages- the places you go on a date indicate how you like to feel. You want someplace where you can relax and be yourself- but also someplace that makes a statement about the kind of person you are- that leaves an impression. On one hand, an Italian restaurant makes a WAY different statement than a Chinese buffet in a strip mall. On the other hand, if avant-garde restaurants with flavored foams aren’t your scene- then it is doubtful you will feel comfortable on a date at a place that serves food like that. A great date place is one that finds the balance between showing who you are, and making a good impression. (This does NOT mean the place needs to be expensive.)
4-Shared interests- Say you are a Vegan and really into eco-conscious food. Say your date is really into prime steak. You find a restaurant that has a farm to table focus- and offers both vegan and meat options. Great date places are all about compromises and shared interests.
5- Shows YOU are listening to someone else’s interests- Say your upcoming date mentioned in passing how she really was craving sushi. Or your date talks about how excited he is about the upcoming Bears game. Make sure that your next date is at a sushi place- or has the Bears game (with sound on.)
Having said that- here’s a list of favorite date places in town.
DiSotto Enoteca- This cozy little Gold Coast gem is romantic with good food.
Devon Seafood- If you can’t get a table, even eating at the bar is a lovely experience.
Trattoria # 10- Another great Italian place- this is close enough to the Theatre district that you can enjoy a show afterwards!
DOC Wine Bar- It’s so comfy, you could spend hours on the couch in front of the fire.
Bijan’s Bistro- This is a favorite of mine- because they stay open late- and the people watching is highly entertaining. You never know who you will see there. Plus, the food is excellent.
Indie Cafe- This Edgewater location is small with a unique half Thai/ half Japanese menu.
