Take me to the local mom'n'pops hole in the wall that never grew out of the 50's and who's every "secret ingredient" is a wad of lard on a skillet. Take me to a ramen hut where the chef lives in the apartment above. Take me to that tiny coffee shop and nerdy tabletop joint that the married couple owns to save on rent and has wildly clashing aesthetic choices. Take me to the BBQ pit where beer guts and 70's afros are the dress code and there are 6 seats and a booth.

First dates are meant to be easy, casual, and an honestly blatant first-sight judgement calls of the tastes of the other person. Local, less-known joints are the perfect way to show depth of character and that you can show potential partners novel and interesting experiences. It doesn't have to be food either. Arcades, natural spaces, and quiet, secluded spots that let you both be at ease as you explore future prospects with one another.