Serious Eats
What to Eat on a First Date
First dates are awkward, but even if sparks don't fly and emotions don't run high right away, you should take certain food precautions. The Guardian has a guide to first dinner dates, with tips like forgoing Brussels sprouts, curry, and fresh pasta since the "effects" don't always kick in for another five hours. They even say to avoid coffee. It's worse than garlic breath, and might interfere with the invite up "for a cup of tea" later.
What strategic eating tricks do you have up your sleeve for first dates? Do you stress over the dinner part? Let them pick the spot? Show off your restaurant knowledge? Order pasta anyway?