First dates are all about making a good impression, and your choice of food can play a surprisingly big role. Some foods can be messy, awkward, or just plain risky, and our list compiles the ones you should avoid the most.
Crab Legs
Enjoying crab legs involves cracking shells and extracting meat, a process that is often messy and time-consuming. This effort, combined with the potential for splatter, makes it an unwise choice for a first date. Opting for a tidier meal can help ensure a smoother and less stressful dining experience. Save this seafood delight for later.
Spicy Foods
When planning a date, it’s wise to consider how certain foods might affect you. Spicy dishes, for instance, can cause discomfort, sweating, or even an upset stomach, which can detract from a pleasant experience. Choosing milder options ensures you stay comfortable and composed, making for a more enjoyable outing.
Burgers
Eating neatly can be a challenge, especially with large, topping-loaded burgers. Juices and sauces tend to spill, making it hard to stay tidy. A more manageable meal, such as a wrap or sandwich, might be a safer bet for maintaining a clean appearance while enjoying your food.
Spaghetti and Meatballs
According to JTS Grill, spaghetti and meatballs became popular during the mid-20th century, but as we all know, the dish can be a nightmare to eat neatly. Long noodles and slippery sauce make it easy to create a mess. Opt for a dish that’s easier to handle to avoid potential embarrassment.
Ribs
Ribs are famously messy. Saucy fingers and sticky hands aren’t ideal for a first date. Opt for food you can eat with a fork and knife to maintain cleanliness and make a good impression. Keep it tidy and enjoy your meal!
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread, a flavorful favorite for many, can leave a potent aroma on your breath that lingers. This strong garlic breath isn’t ideal, especially when trying to impress someone new or in social situations. To avoid this issue, consider choosing a less pungent option or pairing it with fresh herbs for balance.
Beans
Beans are a healthy choice but can cause unwanted digestive issues. Feeling gassy or bloated is not ideal on a first date. Choose foods that are less likely to cause discomfort and keep you feeling your best.
Sushi
Although sushi is popular, it can be tricky to eat gracefully, especially for those unfamiliar with chopsticks. Additionally, raw fish might not be everyone’s preference. Pick a dish that’s easier to eat and more universally liked.
Corn on the Cob
Eating corn on the cob can be a bit tricky. Biting directly into it often leads to kernels getting stuck in your teeth and can be messy. To avoid these issues, consider opting for a side dish that’s easier to manage and won’t cause any dental dilemmas.
Ice Cream Cones
On a hot day, enjoying a sweet treat is great, but it often means sticky fingers and melty messes, especially with ice cream cones. Warm weather speeds up the melting, turning a fun snack into a hassle. Choosing a less messy dessert will keep you clean and refreshed.
Salads
Eating healthy can sometimes be a challenge, especially when it comes to certain dishes. Salads, for instance, can be cumbersome to eat neatly since leafy greens and dressing are difficult to manage, often leading to spills. Opt for a dish that’s easier to handle and less likely to end up on your clothes.
Onions
A common issue with certain foods is their impact on breath. Onions, particularly when raw, can leave a strong aftertaste and lingering odor. This isn’t ideal for close conversations. To maintain fresh and pleasant breath, consider opting for dishes with milder ingredients that don’t produce such strong odors.
Shellfish
Shellfish, like mussels or clams, often require special utensils and can be challenging to eat neatly. The potential for messiness and strong flavors can be off-putting. Save these for a more casual dining experience.
Nachos
Indulging in this snack can be a delightful experience, but it often comes with challenges. Sticky fingers and dropped toppings are common issues, making them a tricky choice for certain occasions. Additionally, the communal aspect might feel awkward on a first date. Opt for a dish that’s easier to handle and enjoy.
Tacos
Tacos, especially hard-shell varieties, can be difficult to eat without making a mess. Fillings often spill out, and sauces can drip. Opt for a less tricky meal to ensure a smoother dining experience.
Soup
When dining out, some dishes can be challenging to eat gracefully, especially if they are hot. Soup, for example, often leads to slurping sounds and potential spills, making it less than ideal for a first date. Opting for a more solid meal choice will likely ensure a more comfortable dining experience.
Wings
When planning a first date, consider choosing a dish that is easy to eat neatly. Opt for meals that can be enjoyed with utensils, ensuring a more polished dining experience. Not only does this help you avoid any awkward moments, but it also allows you to focus more on the conversation and connection.
Popcorn
Popcorn might seem harmless, but it can get stuck in your teeth, causing discomfort and embarrassment. Additionally, it’s a snack more suited for casual settings rather than a formal date. Opt for a more substantial dish.
Spinach
While healthy, spinach can easily get caught in your teeth, leading to awkward moments if you’re unaware of it. Choose a dish with less potential for dental dilemmas to ensure a confident smile throughout the date.