As we all know, picking a first date location can be hard! It sets the mood for the whole relationship...so, no pressure! To make sure your date idea is just as hot as your crush, check out these top 10 places to go:
1. Barcadia
Looking for pure excitement? Check out Barcadia! Bar + Arcade = Perfect Date Spot for hours of laughter and good times! Grab a Princess Peach cocktail and play some Pac-Man while your date cheers you on! Or grab a booth and play 1 vs 1 on some old N64 games and make a bet that whoever wins owes the other person a kiss ;)
2. Tango Nuevo
Can you say HOT DAMN?! Well, your date will when they see that you're taking them to Tango for a date! This tapas restaurant is the ultimate romantic date spot. Share an enriching conversation while enjoying mouth watering food and a classy glass of red wine. Your date will be thinking about this dinner for weeks to come!
3. Musikki
Looking for guaranteed romance? Musikki slays the game every night. In a hip, cool spot tucked away on Brock St, it’s simply coffee by day and whiskey by night. Do you love music and listening to incredibly talented performers? Musikki offers live music EVERY SINGLE night! Featuring a variety of genres from jazz, open mic performances, and indie, you won't be able to resist cozying up in this romantic café.
4. Waterfront
The best part about Kingston is living right on the water! This means we have the most GORGEOUS date spot… walks along the water! Stroll by the art sculptures all the way to the Kingston sign downtown. If your date gets cold, you can offer them your jacket (easy date points) or hold their hand! You can also take a seat at one of the picnic benches and feed the duck couple!
Here is a Kingston favourite for all craft brew lovers! Want a chill, yet hip, atmosphere for you and your date? Enjoy this local gem that’s perfect for dates who want some high quality beer, amazing food, and great times. Taking your date here will not only show them you are as cool as a cucumber, but that you enjoy the finer things in life... like a craft IPA or a charcuterie board.
I know, I know, taking your date to a “movie” is like so been-there-done-that, right? WRONG! The Screening Room is Kingston’s next-level theater that only plays local and contemporary films. Want your date to think you are an artsy, intellectual, unique snowflake (like your mom always says you are)? Bring them to one of the many movies The Screening Room offers and you are guaranteed to make it to a second date.
7. Crave
Are you CRAVE-ing a cute little coffee shop? Well, Crave is the place to go! It’s the perfect place to grab a sweet, homemade, freshly baked good and a pumpkin non-fat soy gluten almond drizzle latte no foam (coffee) with your crush! Whether you talk about that new book you got, the classes you're in, or how the barista never gets your order right, your love will be as hot as that piping cup of coffee!
8. Juniper Café
This is by far one of the most gorgeous and romantic cafes in Kingston! Located right on the edge of Lake Ontario, you can stare out into the waters breathtaking beauty. Need a pick-up line? “The blue water is so beautiful, just like your eyes.” (Caution: This works best if their eyes are also blue. Try at your own risk.) SECOND DATE ALERT! If the love is still burning, you guys can even take a stroll by the water after you're done and hopefully start some hand holding *cue awwwwwwwes*
9. Queen’s Pub
QP is a Queen's student icon, but many do not realize its first date potential. Whether you're there for trivia, bachelor Mondays, or pitchers of sangria, there is something here for everyone! QP gives you a comforting tri-colour space to bring your date and feel right at home.
Teamwork makes the dream work as “they” say (if you know who 'they' is, please message us) and wow, does this ever take teamwork! These escapes offer you and your crush the chance to work together in a crazy fantasy setting, which will allow you to show off your silly side. But, this also gives you the chance to impress when you solve clue after clue and get your S.O. to freedom. Be the hero in their heart and you will be guaranteed a second date!
Still hungry? New & Abroad recently featured 5 Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Kingston that are definitely a must-try.
Is your date super into music? Our friends at Musical GlobeTrotter have some great recommendations, whether you're in Kingston, Toronto or Ottawa! Check out their musical suggestions in Ontario here!
Want more dating or relationship advice? Check out our friends at The Recipe for more great reads.
Were you looking more for a friend-date location? Check out this article by Queen's Top 5 on Top 5 Restaurants to Chill with Your Squad for five awesome (& underrated) spots!
- Love, Human Crossing