a quick cheat sheet

while I do love the occasional brisk rendezvous, the best way to unravel my layers is over an indulgent meal, somewhere we can linger and share flavors and stories that allow the evening to naturally break the ice. i don’t believe in being rushed; i prefer when my dates revel in each moment and give us time to unfold slowly, appreciating every detail. why run to the finish line? everyone knows the real pleasure lives in the release that comes after hours of slow-building tension.

let’s begin our night at one of these locales:

la cuchara - basque
clavel - mexican, mezcal
the duchess - pacific islander/asian fusion
food market - american
grano - italian
ammoora - syrian
charleston - southern/french fusion
toki underground - ramen
foraged - hyper seasonal new american
marta - new american
magdalena - modern american
sotto sopra - italian
la barrita - argentinian

and if you just can’t bear to wait that long:

dutch courage
ash bar
fadensonnen
idle hour
bloom’s
grand cru
w.c. harlan
mama koko’s
club charles

for the ones that speak gift-giving:

I never, ever expect gifts or treats, but I always genuinely appreciate them.

the easiest and most practical gift is an extra cash tip, but something even as small as a fun beverage or snack would make my day. here are a few other things that would get you extra special treatment:

  • gourmet chocolates

  • loose-leaf teas

  • fresh floral arrangements (my favorites are peonies, poppies, and ranunculus, but i would be so happy with anything)