First Date Jitters
Where to meet
If you find yourself facing a first date you’ll probably want to meet somewhere central which has a great atmosphere and isn’t too noisy so that you can get to know each other. Here are a few bar and café suggestions for a recommended first date….
Ponsonby Social Club
For a mid week night or Saturday afternoon date, head to Ponsonby Social Club. You can sit outside in their front courtyard and enjoy a drink or two without the stress of having to shout at each other. And if the date goes well you’re in the perfect area to head for a meal down Ponsonby Road afterwards or grab something from their small bistro menu.
Whiskey Bar
Whiskey Bar is a smooth bar - dark, moody and sophisticated. It’s a small bar but has comfy lounge seating, and stools at the bar where you can sit and have a chin-wag. The music tends to gets louder later in the evening when more people arrive, so get there early.
One 2 One café
Ponsonby’s One 2 One Café is a lovely spot which is perfect for a laid back weekend date thanks to its lovely comforting vibe. It’s warm and cosy inside, and private and cool outside in their courtyard.
The Ponsonby Belgian Beer Bar
Sat on the corner of St Mary’s Road, The Ponsonby Belgian Beer bar is a great spot for a casual date. They also offer delicious European inspired meals so if your date is going well, you can chose to move out the back to their restaurant.
Attic Bar & Restaurant
Mission Bay's Attic bar is a newish little spot which offers a laid back friendly vibe. Chat outside on the deck overlooking the view, or stay inside and grab a stool near the bar. They offer a bistro style menu too if you wish to grab a bite to eat.
The Office Bar
The Westin Hotel in the Viaduct owns a great wee bar called The Office which is a great place for a first date. Get comfy in one of their booths, or pick a spot by the window where you’ll get great views for some inspiring conversation!
La Zeppa
Sat just behind Victoria Park Market, La Zeppa is a fantastic bar and restaurant for chatting over a glass of wine and tapas. The lighting is soft and the music isn’t too intrusive. It’s a popular spot so probably best to meet early in the evening, before the party people arrive.
Eden Cloak Room
The Eden Cloak Room is a lovely little gem of a bar. It's small inside, but adds to the quaint and relaxed atmosphere. You can also sit outside in their courtyard which is choice on a sunny afternoon. A popular spot so get in early.
Winehot
So, the French are meant to be romantic right? WineHot is a very cosy and romantic French wine bar and small restaurant in New North Road Kingsland. It offers a fantastic wine list, charming music and is perfect for quiet conversation.
Bambina
Good things come in small packages, and Bambina is a small but ever-so-friendly café perfect for a casual weekend coffee date. Their food is pretty special too!
Editorial by Katherine Robinson