First date in a box

So the other night, when out with the guys, one of my buddies asked for a good restaurant to take a first date. Immediately, and without pause, we all threw out recommendations, which led to a conversations about first dates. From the conversation I learned something interesting – all guys have a pre-canned first date. Oh, I’m not just talking about a place to take someone, but an entire evening, complete with talking points and subject matters they want to cover to illustrate them in a certain light.

Without mentioning names, a date with one of my buddies starts at an Ethiopian restaurant and always includes mention of post-modern feminist thought. Another buddy hits the Hungarian pastry shop and brings up classical literature and 19th century poetry. Yet another is a frequenter of a martini lounge near his office and is always sure to bring up the colors of the Tuscan sunset. It’s made me realize that, much like a play, first dates almost always seem spontaneous, but in reality, are actually well rehearsed productions.

And each of these dates illustrate the guy in a particular way. Ethiopian restaurant man prides himself on being a feminist. Hungarian pastry shop dude studied the classics and is well read. Martini lounge guy? Well, uh, we think he’s straight but aren’t completely sure.

So what’s a first date with Kevin like? Well, I don’t want to ruin the surprise for any potentially interested ladies out there, but let’s just say if midget Jell-o wrestling and conversations on finger-painting techniques of the 18th century aren't your thing, you may not want to apply.