Can I just be the first to admit this? I hate first dates.

While I’m usually calm and composed, the impending doom of a first date turns me into this neurotic and insecure chick who basically frets about silly things like whether my stilettos will give him the false impression that I’m high maintainance, my hysterical laughter will be a major turn-off and my chipped nails will make me look like I can’t be bothered with basic grooming. I think it’s an occupational hazard. When part of your job involves finding out what men look for in a women and uncovering what men really think about women on a date, it’s hard to prevent those insights from seeping into your consciousness when you’re getting ready for a date. 

For a long time, my strategy of easing the stress of the situation was to keep the first date as casual as possible. My rationale was that if you removed the physical setting that screamed “first date”, it would make it that much easier to ignore the fact that I was actually out on a date and I would be able to be myself and give him a fair chance to get to know me. But I think good intentions led to complacency and after a while, I was suggesting Cuscaden Patio as a first date location. I mean, I love that place to bits, but seriously, it doesn’t take a genius to know that it’s hardly the place to ignite any lovin’ feelings. 

So anyway, I got pulled out of my first-date rut when one guy couldn’t hide his shock when I as usual, suggested Cuscaden. I think his exact response was, “It’s either you’re a really cheap date or this isn’t a date.” Point quite promptly taken. So we headed to Majestic Restaurant instead and I had a great time.  And then it occurred to me, the reason why first dates are so stressful is because we all dread the awkward silences and the general feeling of “I-can’t-believe-I-spent-an-hour-getting-dressed-for-this.”

So, while I’m still not able to shake off my pre-first date jitters, I have decided that in light of the unpredictability of the outcome of first dates, I think the least I can do is to make sure that I’m guaranteed a good dining experience. Here are my top three first-date restaurants.  

1. Garibaldi

Elegant setting, excellent Italian food and the Mango Mojito is absolutely delish. They’re currently having a white truffle season so just in case your date is a big spender, I hear the Wagyu Beef Carpaccio with White Truffle is to die for.

Garidbaldi is at 36 Purvis Street #01-02. Tel: 6837 1468.

2. Firestation Hillside Gastrobar

Originally the Bukit Timah Firestation, this place is central but feels far removed from the hustle and bustle thanks to all the natural landscape surrounding it. The food isn’t anything to rave about but it makes up for mediocre food with an unpretentious and raw décor and a charming setting.

Firestation Hillside Gastrobar is at 274 Upper Bukit Timah Road. Tel: 6465 0600.

3. Mimolette

Honestly, I prefer Mimolette in the day partially cos there are horses from the Saddle Club walking around and I can imagine I’m in some other country. And I’m a sucker for brunch. But an evening date at Mimolette won’t disappoint. The slow-roasted rack of lamb is a must-try. It isn’t the most glam thing to eat, especially if you start picking the meat off the bone, but hey, guys like a girl who enjoys her food, right?

Mimolette is at 55 Fairways Drive. Tel:6467 7748.