first date picks

We all have our different ideas as to what makes a great first date restaurant. Everyone has their own expectations, whether it be greasy burgers at the Brass or braised lamb at Le Chien, but we've compiled a list of our top picks to impress that first date, whether it be with beer or bernaise, you'll have to make that decision.

Le Chien Noir: Le Chien Noir is by far my favourite fine dining experience in the city. You might as well be in Paris or New York. The food is always decadent (try the duck poutine), the wine list is fabulous, and the atmosphere puts this place over the top. Located in an old limestone and brick heritage building on Brock Street (beside sister resto Atomica) Le Chien is loud, warn, and cozy. It's the kind of place you can (and should) dine for hours.

Woodenheads: The wait staff is sexy, the decor is trendy without even trying, and hel - the pizzas are the best in town. This is, in my humble opinion, a great first date place. No matter how central the locaiton, you still feel miles away from anything Kingston.

The Toucan & Kirkpatricks: Toucan has an old-world style pub experience. The drinks and food there are good, reasonably priced (deals for grad students), and the atmosphere is great if you’re looking for something you can’t quite put your finger on. It's casual enough to have a fun and rowdy first date, with room for conversation, and lots of diversions if things go bad.

Lukes: If it's conversation you are after, head to Lukes. This place is small and quiet, and the food is incredible. Nothing will make you feel bloated or fat or ill, and it's romantically dark. You may have to wait for your meal, as service is usually slow, but all the better to work your way through a bottle of their homemade wine while waiting.

Cambodiana: Cambodiana is located in an unassuming hole in the wall on Brock Street across from Hotel Dieu Hospital. The decor is lackluster. The service is basic. And there isn’t a heck of a lot of room to move around - it’s packed with people and chairs and food. However, that food is damn good, and if your date sucks, at least you just had the most blissful meal of your life. Ps, chicks dig guys who like Thai / Cambodian food.