Whether you’re single, married, or just a casual kind-of-guy, you’ll always want a spark in your dates. There’s no worse feeling than taking a girl out and having to hear nothing but silence. Who doesn’t enjoy a perfect date? The capital is loaded with spots for people with different interests. Here are five places that will ensure you have a good date depending on what you’re looking for.
First date at the Old Queen’s Head – 44 Essex Road Islington, N1 8LN
The restaurants, bars, and music in Angel really makes it one of the most entertaining places to live in London. The Old Queen’s Head is a pub that makes you feel like you’re in NYC. It’s old school in the sense that it’s really laid back and chilled out. The grotty but cool pub has a big fireplace and plays good music all night through. The beer garden is quirky as is the rest of the furniture. Every detail put into the Old Queen’s Head makes it worth the visit. Oh and their burgers are just delicious!
It makes for a perfect first date. It’s not a wine and dine but it certainly is an entertaining hangout. It’s gritty, cool, and interesting—the exact feelings you experience when you’re getting to know the person you’ve been crushing on!
Celebrate à la mode at Morgan M. – 489 Liverpool Road Islington, London, N7 8NS
“The secret to humour is surprise”. And we all know that the ladies love good humour! Being at the rougher end of Liverpool Rd, Morgan M.’s French restaurant is no short of a great surprise. It’s perfect for a foodie couple who are willing to try out new indulgencies. Take your significant other to the formal but relaxed restaurant to experience a taste of authentic French cuisine.
Be sure to call in and book beforehand as it can get packed pretty quickly. The menu is seasonal and is continuously changing, but one item is constant: Morgan’s irresistible soufflé pour le dessert!
Get romantic at the Oxo Tower Terrace – 8th Floor, Oxo Tower Wharf, Barge House Street, SE1 9PH
Enjoy a moment of Zen as the sun eases any stress upon you; gentle music in the background as the view calms your worries. The romantic Oxo Tower Terrace is only just short of heaven. Claim your time off with your date while the rush of the capital continues to flow below you. All you do is sit back and sip on a luxurious cocktail, relishing the moment you’re in.
The extravagance that is the Oxo Tower is no secret; the very least you would expect from Harvey Nichols group. It’s ideal for a special occasion and a romantic getaway—and not easy on your wallet, either! But with high prices comes good quality food and service. Oh and the wine—I forgot to mention the wine! Indulge in food heaven if you’re on a budget with a set course for two plus a bottle of wine for only £25. When you’re there, this will seem cheap, trust me. It’s a once in a life time experience and certainly won’t disappoint. It’s like luxury at its best, and on a budget.
Explore culture with the London Duck Tours – 55 York Road, London, SE1 7NJ
Yes, you heard that right. The London Duck Tours are often overlooked by locals, being labelled solely as a tourist activity. It may not be a romantic first date, but it’s certainly an entertaining one. Who can’t help but scream with excitement the second your Duck drives into the Thames? It’s pretty adrenaline rushing, if you ask me. Once you’re done with the fun, you’ll have a lot to talk about with your date. You can head over down Southbank and grab a coffee. If your date is really into English culture, head over to the Globe to view history at its best.
A quick bite at French Bubbles Champagne + Fromage
Okay, I may be a bit of a French-enthusiast, but it always proves to be a good outing. Right around the corner of Covent Garden is a small French bistro that makes for a perfect pre-theatre snack or a post-show drink. You might want to explore some shops at the Covent Garden square and take a breath of fresh air before you get to Champagne + Fromage. Cheese is one of my favourite foods, so getting a taste of authentic French fromage is beyond perfect for me. You’ll be greeted with a selection of cheeses from a board followed by champagne, of course!
The boards really help bring out conversation and make your date more social-oriented. It’s a good change from the (usually awkward) silence of chewing on your food. It can be perfect for a first date, too. You can have as much as you want—it’s really relaxed and chilled out. The service is friendly as well, but good luck trying to understand the French!
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UK Guest Contributing Writer – Sohaib is an adventure travel enthusiast and writes for HotelClub, a website with the best London hotel deals this year. When he isn’t reviewing hotels and destinations, you’ll find him exploring the streets of the English capital finding the best places to eat—he is a foodie, after all!
