Ah yes, everyone's favorite pastime- dating and dealing with the awkwardness, anxiety, and nervousness of a first date. We must note that there can be all types of first date situations. For example, a first date can take the form of a blind date, a Tinder/Bumble/Grindr/Hinge first time meet-up, a met-at-work, met through friends, met at a bar, were friends before situation, and so on. Since first dates vary and so do the motives behind them, we've created a handy guide to the best spots in the City to go on a first date depending on your end goal and how "serious" you want to get. No shame in the game, pal.
Coffee
What does a coffee date scream? Casual. It's basically proven that if you suggest to get coffee for a first date, then you are implying that the date will be very casual and there may or may not be any romantic feelings involved. Here are a few cute and quaint coffee shops in the city that will leave you feeling satisfied with a delicious Cup of Joe, even if the date turns out to be a total dud.
(270 7th St // SOMA, 301 Divasdero St // NOPA, 3014 20th St // Mission)
Also known as "hipster heaven", this beautifully designed coffee shop is the perfect spot to chat with a date in a super casual and ambient atmosphere. Not to mention that the coffee here is so good that there are lines out the door, so grab your date and hurry on over!
(1026 Valencia St // Mission, 1300 Haight St // Haight, 432b Octavia St // Hayes Valley)
Another place with the most aesthetically pleasing vibes and decor is this fan favorite coffee joint, located all over the city. The coffee served here is bound to blow your date away, and so are the variety of vegan pastry options that will cater to any person!
(2340 Polk St // Russian Hill)
This cute little spot located in Russian Hill will spark the romance like no other! Known for their tasty Orange Creme, Almond Macadamia Nut Lattes and super friendly baristas, setting up a date at this place will be the best decision you've ever made.
(609 Vallejo St // North Beach)
Perfect for a first meeting, the lively atmosphere of this historic coffeehouse will make relaxing and chatting a breeze and help ease any first date jitters. Make a date for the weekend and you'll be rewarded with live music, likely to put you both in a great mood.
(2128 Folsom St // Mission)
This lunchtime spot has a tasty menu with a gorgeous outdoor patio that makes you feel like you're in a greenhouse. Grab a coffee or matcha to keep it casual, and chat amongst the greenery for a calm, soothing vibe.
Cocktails
Look, if someone suggests to get cocktails on a first date then you have to know that they are quite curious. They also might be trying to feel out the situation with the help of some booze to ease the initial tension. So enjoy the night and let your inhibitions go at these top notch bars that will score you the flirtiest first date!
(580 Sutter St // Union Square)
This popular cocktail spot in Union Square is said to be home of some of the most creative, delicious, and quality drinks in all of the Bay Area! Get prepared for the most entertaining date ever.
(3174 16th St // Mission)
This sweet spot in the Mission will put you and your date in the best mood! With some fantastic options for cocktails, booze-free options, and a menu filled with delectable cuisine, we can most certainly guarantee a good time.
(309 Cortland Ave // Bernal Heights)
A local favorite, this cocktail bar is your go-to if you are planning to hang out in Bernal Heights with your date and have a relaxing time getting to know each other. People are raving about this place mainly because of the special cocktails and super cozy atmosphere that you can only find here.
(895 Post St // Nob Hill)
This garden-centric bar is a crowd favorite! This plant-filled space has botanical beverages, including booze-free options. They also host events so you can plan ahead and have some extra fun on your big night out.
(650 Gough St // Hayes Valley)
It's basically impossible to have a bad time at this award-winning tiki bar. With an interior straight out of a movie set, you'll feel like you're on a first date tropical vacation. Plus, everything is better when there's an umbrella in a your drink.
Dinner
Okay folks, we all know what a dinner date implies. Or maybe we don't. But let's just say that if you get asked out to dinner for the first date, there might be some intimate one-on-one time happening after.
(2534 Mission St // Mission)
Bound to put you in a romantic mood, everything about Foreign Cinema oozes sex appeal. This is dinner and a movie taken to the next level. Netflix and chill, no more.
(1550 Hyde St // Nob Hill)
This fabulous Italian restaurant located in the heart of Nob Hill is bound to sweep your date off of their feet. Make the best first impression by showing your date that you have excellent taste in fine wining and dining.
(200 Jackson St // Financial District)
We wouldn't mind if someone took us on a date here (hint-hint). The exquisite Greek dishes with names that are almost impossible to pronounce will surely impress your date and have them feeling lucky to share such a delicious meal with you!
(993 Mission St // SOMA)
Live a little at this one-of-a-kind restaurant that looks like a hole in the wall, with a clever twist. Interact with the pawn shop master at the entrance to get in to the immersive dining experience. Once inside, enjoy tapas and other delights in their vibey atmosphere.
(1199 Valencia St // Mission, 661 Divisadero St // NOPA)
If you and your date are trying to recreate the romantic spaghetti scene from Lady and the Tramp, then this is the place to do it. Known for some of the most delectable and perfectly executed pasta of all time, as well as some of the best pizza in the city, your date will surely fall in love (or lust) by the end of the night.
Written by Alisa Rotfeld
Looking for more ways to woo your bae? Check out our Valentine's Day Events!
