Where To Take Them
Being single and navigating the world of dating can be tough. There is no right way to do it, and everyone has a different experience. We’re all looking for qualities in a person that are appealing to our differing wants and needs, but for all of us in the dating game, we are certainly looking for one common thing: companionship. I have some good news for you. If you’re looking for companionship, sharing that over a cup of coffee is a simple way to do it.
You might say you have a coffee date with a friend or colleague, but what if it’s an actual date? Whether you’re an avid coffee date planner, have never been on one with an individual you’re interested in, or are new to the dating game altogether, there may be something here for you!
You may have already taken a peek at From Pick Up Lines to Feeling Fine: How to Ask Someone Out to Coffee (hyperlink that blog on the title), and now it’s time to take the next step.
What To Do Now
You’ve gotten through the initial interaction with that person you’re interested in. You’ve hopefully been able to exchange a conversation or two in person and you know a little bit about them. Phone number or other method of contact has been acquired. You’re elated that it’s all working out so far, but you might also be a little nervous.
So now comes the question: Where do you take them?
There is nothing wrong with going to a mainstream, big name coffee shop, but chances are your date has been there and may have a strong preference for one brand over another. Instead, think outside the box and look for something that might not be as well-known. Smaller, local coffee joints have settings with character and each manifest their own unique vibes. Even if your date doesn’t love the coffee there after having some with you, they will be much more likely to appreciate the effort you took in seeking out a place with a personality that was more specific to the mood you wanted to set for the date.
Additionally, each person is different, just like each coffee shop! With this being said, make sure to consider what you know about them and attempt to find a place they will enjoy and feel comfortable in.
This is where you get to be creative. There will be so many coffee shops and cafes in any given city or town, so wherever you are, you are likely to have options. Think about what kind of setting you want to have the date in. Some coffee shops are more date friendly than others, but if you don’t have any that come to mind off the bat, it can be tough. You might have to do a little research to get the perfect setting that’s just right for you, but the good news is that I have a few suggestions for you to try in the Twin Cities.
The Places to Be in the Twin Cities
French Meadow Bakery & Café – St. Paul
French Meadow Bakery & Café is tucked away amongst a variety of dining options on the buzzing Grand Avenue in St. Paul. They have an abundance of coffee options, from cold press and cappuccinos to mochas and matcha lattes, and not to mention their signature FMB (French Meadow Bakery) mocha. But wait, there’s more! Not only does this place serve good coffee, it has some tasty food to go along with it. This is a perfect place to go if you want to have a brunch date with avocado toast or a breakfast burrito while sipping on your choice of beverage. There are seating options both inside and outside, and the area is beautiful for taking a little stroll afterwards!
There is nothing quite like the atmosphere at Penny’s downtown. It’s a quiet and calm space amidst a busy and bustling city. Everything from the lighting to the decor makes for a beautiful place to sit down and share someone’s company. With a variety of options on the menu, they are bound to have the drink you’re looking for and they’re sure not to disappoint. If you, or the person you take on a date here, like lattes, the vanilla and golden lattes are a great place to start. They offer crepes, salads and sandwiches as well, which are great options for breakfast or lunch!
The Lynhall is a nice shop that isn’t too formal. This is a great place to break the ice and have casual conversation with your date. You can get all of the coffee basics here in addition to brunch or a meal. One of the best aspects of this place is the coffee specials, which include a honey and cream iced espresso, root beer espresso float, a moraccan blueberry cold brew, and mango pineapple matcha. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new with your date this is most definitely the place to go!
Uncommon Grounds – Minneapolis
Looking for something low key and a bit on the romantic side? Uncommon Grounds is the spot for you. This shop is located in Uptown Minneapolis in an old Victorian home. In addition to simple table and chair seating, Uncommon Grounds has booths, which create a more intimate vibe – and I can’t forget to mention the candlelit ambiance. This is a great spot to grab coffee no matter the weather because it not only has great indoor seating, but outdoor seating as well on the front patio and wrap-around porch. Go on a date here and you’re sure to feel warm and cozy with that special someone.
Wrap Up
While the world of dating – especially a first date – may be intimidating, coffee can assuage your fears, at least hopefully in some way! What better way to get to know someone and not jump the gun on a date than to simply sit down and have conversation while sipping on a tasty beverage. Coffee dates require low planning and low pressure, which is perfect for being able to focus on learning more about that other person.
Written by my friend Lauren.
Thank you for reading and I hope you all have a great weekend!
-Dil
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