Since 1969, restaurant, hotel, travel & other witty reviews by a handpicked, worldwide team of discerning professionals—and your views, too.

Top 10 First Date Bars in the U.S.

Terroir Tribeca in New York, one of the Top 10 First Date Bars in the U.S.

The first rule of first dates is to be yourself, but where should that happen? You want to pick a spot where you can get to know someone, but also make a good first impression. Meeting at a bar for drinks gives both parties an easy escape route if needed, without having to sit through what could be a painful dining experience. But you want to keep your options open in case both parties want the date to turn into a meal. We've found the top 10 bars across the country for a first date, where a drink or two could turn to dinner or something more. And if the atmosphere sets the proper mood and the sparks fly, some of these bars are even in hotels!

RESTAURANT AWARDS

We just published the 2012 edition of our annual restaurant issue, featuring the Top 40 Restaurants in the U.S. and much more. Check it out!