The following list of locations for dates is simply based on my own experiences. My hopes are that this list will help you make suggestions when planning future dates.
1. Brewvies Cinema Pub, 677 South 200 West*
Great food, pool tables, pinball machines…And if the conversation winds down you can always catch a flick. If things are going really well, you can venture over to Dr. John’s Adult Novelty Store for supplies!! Wink, wink…
2. Coffee Garden, 898 East 900 South
Perfect for a first meeting. Grab your coffee/tea/hot chocolate and sit outside and watch all the interesting people that frequent 9th & 9th. If the weather is nice enough take a walk. Be warned that it can get quite loud inside the Coffee Garden but step outside the door and you won’t have to shout as you get to know each other.
3. Mazza, 912 East 900 South
Mazza specializes in Middle Eastern food. If you are looking for someone who is cultural, this is a great suggestion to make. His/her willingness will tell you a lot. Has he/she had Middle Eastern food before? If he/she hasn’t is he/she willing to give it a try? The atmosphere is great, the waiters are friendly, and the food is amazing, and strange as it may sound, they have the best French fries!
4. Sawadee, 754 East South Temple
Sawadee is a Thai restaurant that would be perfect for a lunch date. Great décor and atmosphere. The waiters are fast and efficient and the prices are reasonable. The food is phenomenal. The volume inside the restaurant is low and when weather permits there is also outdoor seating.
5. The Beerhive, 128 South Main*
Patio seating, hundreds of beers to choose from, German and pub food, pool tables and foosball make this a great downtown meeting place. With Utah Trax running right in front of The Beerhive, you may even factor in a Trax ride (to or from) for some extra “get-to-know-you” time.
6. Desert Edge Brewery, 273 Trolley Square
Located in Trolley Square, Desert Edge Brewery (aka The Pub) is a great place for a date. The laid back atmosphere, efficiency of the staff, and flattering lighting will put you at ease, take the pressure off, and give you an opportunity to eat some amazing food. If you find yourself having a good time, you can extend your date by doing some window shopping in Trolley Square.
7. Fiddler’s Elbow, 1063 East 2100 South*
Fiddler’s is located in the heart of Sugarhouse. If you are a sports fan, this may be a good option for a date (not a first date, mind you). If you get distracted easily, the vibe you give off may not be what you want your date to see early on. The food is great and the beer is cold. Beware: if a big sporting event is going on, it may get a bit loud. But if you are looking for a way to break the ice, sports may be a great start.
8. Coffee Connection, 1588 South State Street
At Coffee Connection, just west of Salt Lake Community College’s South City Campus, you can sit and drink coffee for hours and not be bothered. If you hate being the one to walk in to a place where your date is already waiting, get there early, bring your laptop, use the wifi, and turn the tables (let your date walk in to you).
9. Oasis Café, 151 South 500 East
At Oasis they believe in balance, not only in the food they serve, but also in the environment. Sit inside or in the courtyard, you will be able to hear each other talk just fine. Oasis also offers many vegetarian and vegan options. Support a local business and enjoy good food and (hopefully) good company. Peruse the Golden Braid Bookstore while you’re there. Don’t forget to share a piece of Decadent Vegan Chocolate Cake!
10. Tony Caputo’s Market & Deli, 314 West 300 South
Tony Caputo’s is perfect for a no-pressure meet and greet. If you live in Salt Lake City, you probably already know how amazing the food is at this place. You can get a meal, and then buy some olive oil and chocolate. Outdoor seating is perfect for conversation, especially since it is across from Pioneer Park.
*Must be 21 to enter.
Please contribute! If you have other suggestions, I would love to hear them!
