Online dating can be an easy way to meet potential partners and with an estimated 91 million people worldwide using dating sites and apps, you certainly won’t be stuck for choice of potential suitors. But as with everything online, this type of dating doesn’t come without its risks and the problems of online dating continue to affect thousands of unsuspecting users.
There are 9.3 million people in London and you just want to meet one great person to share your life with – is that so hard to ask?! Of course, you can always download the latest app or attend one of the hundreds of speed dating events that take place across the city every week, but how much can you really get to know about someone in five minutes?
The truth is, once you’ve found someone whose lifestyle complements yours or who shares similar passions and ambitions to you, you want to take your time to really get to know them – and London is the ideal place to do that! As well as offering a huge range of memorable date ideas there are also so many great places to wine and dine if you want to go for a traditional dinner date.
In fact, did you know that it is estimated that there are over 39,300 places to eat in London? There’s pretty much nothing you can’t find in this great city if you really look for it (including a partner). So if you’ve got a big date coming up, we’re here to help you narrow it down. We’ve chosen six of our favourite first date venues in London, which we think is pretty impressive given there’s more than 39,300 to choose from!
1. Dishoom
There are currently five Dishoom restaurants across Central London, from Shoreditch to Kensington, so you’ll be able to find the location that best suits both of you. This delicious Indian food is a firm favourite of many Londoners and has been described by its founders as a ‘loving homage to the Irani cafés that were once part of the fabric of life in Bombay’. Perfect if you love authentic Indian food – and who doesn’t!
2. Pont De La Tour
If French cuisine is more your style, look no further than Le Pont de la Tour. Not only is the menu made up of traditional yet innovative French dishes, but you can enjoy a romantic evening overlooking the River Thames as you dine. A little pricey, but a great experience.
3. Madison
If you’re looking for a more lively venue, the Madison boasts incredible views of the London skyline, a real Manhattan style restaurant and a vibrant rooftop terrace and bar. Here you can expect an evening of great food, signature cocktails and music from in-house DJs or acoustic acts, all on eye level with the dome of St Paul’s.
4. OXO
Located on the eighth floor of London’s iconic OXO Tower perches the tower restaurant, bar and brasserie. This is the ideal first date venue in London if you’re looking for something refined and elegant but not too formal. The menu offers the best of British fine dining, while the bar offers a range of fabulous cocktails for after-dinner drinks.
5. Clos Maggiore
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Clos Maggiore is the first date venue for you. Described as ‘an oasis of calm in the heart of Covent Garden’ and possibly the world’s most romantic restaurant, Head Chef Marcellin Marc creates dishes inspired by his love of Provence and Tuscany, using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients.
6. Anywhere in the Shard!
OK, this is cheating a bit because there are six restaurants and bars to choose from in the Shard and we couldn’t pick just one! But whether you’re looking for fine dining or just drinks with a view, you can’t go wrong anywhere in this magnificent building.
If you’re considering joining a dating agency in London, Ignite could help! We know that city life is busy, so we can take some of the hard work out of dating by finding you great matches with hand selected individuals. If you want to know more about our services getting in touch today.
