Atlanta's Best First-Date Spots

112 Krog St, Atlanta, GA 30307 (map)

As mentioned before, we like the idea of a casual tapas spot. We also like anything Kevin Rathbun does. Krog Bar, the restaurateur’s converted garage is a junior-sized wine bar that’s both cozy and boasts a cool outdoor patio (best of both worlds). Well-selected meat and cheese trays, a stellar wine list and cute, mini ice-cream cones match the bar, and the first date, perfectly.

1845 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 (map)

Despite being lodged in the plastic land of SoBu, Cafe Intermezzo somehow manages to feel like it’s been imported from Europe. This dimly lit, romantic destination boasts the city’s best drink menu (40+ pages? Whoa!), but the real reason to chow at this late-night spot is the dessert case. Mountain-sized cakes and pies come out in sharable quantities and after-dinner coffee will make you swear it’s the best you’ve had.

647 Myrtle St., Atlanta, GA 30308 (map)

One of the keys to the first date is choosing places that are instantly impressive but not overly publicized. Top Flr is one of the culinary jewels in our city, but with a tucked-away location and a lack of pretentiousness, it’s sneaky-good. The setting feels like a Wes Anderson film and the menu does delicate dishes (curried tofu) well while keeping the price point down. Should the relationship move forward, this will instantly become "your place."

309 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta, GA 30307 (map)

Is there a better sharable food than pizza? We think not. With interesting Napoleon-style combinations topped with items like pear or arugula, the pizzas at Fritti are some of the best in the city but also provide a sense of culinary adventure. Plus, this Inman Park eatery has a perfectly cute space: Warm brick walls, garage doors that lead to an outside patio and the beehive-shaped oven make it as endearing as it is tasty.

755 Hank Aaron Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30315 (map)

Despite the disinterest in sports that can sometimes accompany female companions, it’s no secret that gals love going to baseball games. We aren’t sure what makes baseball so well received, but we feel like guys should use this to their advantage. Jump start some chemistry by high-fiving homers, snagging brews in the Chophouse and enjoying the outdoor scenery. (And, P.S., don’t get box seats, dude.)

1280 Peachtree St, Atlanta, GA 30309 (map)

Dates don’t always have to be centered around bars, restaurants or what you think is the best way to get some ass. Sometimes sex appeal can be found in unexpected places. Enter: Friday night Jazz at the High Museum. Throw in a few cocktails and live jazz music and all of a sudden the High doesn’t seem all that stiff.

2000 Moreland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316 (map)

Movies have long been the generic no-brainer option for the early dating stages. While this tried-and-true option may produce results, it doesn’t necessarily show a lot of thought. Answer: the drive-in movie. It’s cheap ($7 for a double feature), you can get creative by bringing in your own food and booze AND you’ll feel like you’re in "American Graffiti."

816 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 (map)

A dungeon-like club known for heavy-metal karaoke might not seem like first-date material, but not so fast, my friends--Thursday nights at the 10 High is Yacht Rock. The smooth, danceable 70s beach band (featuring members of alias-rock legends Y O U) brings out droves of kids decked in captain’s hats and beach attire. It’s pretty much impossible not to have fun.

280 Hilderbrand Dr, Atlanta, GA 30328 (map)

There is no better connection-starter than laughing your ass off with someone else. And, while stand-up comedy can be brutally uncomfortable if the comic bombs, showing off those pearly whites (and the fact you have a sense of humor) immediately doubles your chance for action.