Dinner Date Do's and Don’ts

A relaxing and romantic dinner is almost always a safe bet for a great date, but simple misunderstandings can make a perfect night turn sour. So here are some do’s and don’ts that will help you keep things running smoothly from your first date to your thousandth.

Don’t Be a Food Snob
While your date will certainly appreciate your choice to steer clear of foods notorious for getting stuck in your teeth or causing embarrassing bad breath, being an overly picky eater might give him the impression that you’re high maintenance. And while there’s nothing wrong with eating healthy, if he’s asked you out to his favorite Italian restaurant, ordering boiled chicken breast and veggies won’t earn you any brownie points in his book.

Do Relax and Enjoy Your Dinner
You don’t have to go on a 2000 calorie binge, but easing up on a strict diet while you’re on a date will allow you the chance to enjoy your meal and show him that you can be flexible when it’s appropriate.

Don’t Use Your Cell Phone
If your date has taken time out of his schedule to be with you, the least you can do is be respectful enough to avoid calls and texts for the time you are together. Using your phone on a date sends a message that the person on the other end of the phone is more important then the one sitting across from you.

Do Ask Open-Ended Questions
Asking questions that require more than simple “yes” or “no” answers are a great way to keep the conversation running smoothly and will give you more insight into your date as well. Rather than asking “Do you like Lady Gaga?” try asking, “What kind of music do you like?” and give him the opportunity for a more expansive answer.

Don’t Drink Too Much
Having a drink to loosen you up is one thing, but getting trashed on a date is never a good idea. Remember, you’re there to spend time together, not to get drunk. Also, drinking on an empty stomach is a surefire way for a little alcohol to go to your head very quickly. If you have a drink, order an appetizer or wait to have it with your meal.

Don’t Assume He’s Picking Up the Tab
While proper etiquette dictates that the person who initiated the date should pay, it is by no means a hard and fast rule. Never assume that your date intends to pay the check.

Do Make an Offer
Even if he initiated the date, it’s a good idea to show that you’re willing to go dutch. It’s perfectly fine to make the offer to help with the bill once it comes. If he intends to pay, he’ll let you know, but if not you’ll avoid the embarrassment of an incorrect assumption.

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