Niamh on Harry
What were you hoping for?
A witty, well-dressed pub quiz partner, preferably Irish. My family is originally from Ireland, and my mum dreams of me settling down there someday.
First impressions?
As I walked up to the restaurant, I spotted him and thought, “I knew it was going to be you!” Well-dressed, not Irish, but with nice tattoos.
What did you talk about?
We quickly realized we’re both from the same part of London and even had the same driving instructor as teenagers (shoutout to Ollie!). We also chatted about recent plays we’ve seen, the meanings behind our tattoos, trainspotting (the actual hobby), and the fact that I’ve been reading this column religiously since I was seven.
Most awkward moment?
The restaurant staff got really excited when we told them we were heading somewhere else afterward. Then I tried to make a quick exit through some curtains that were sewn together.
Good table manners?
He handled the sharing plates really well.
Best thing about Harry?
His openness and his knack for asking good questions.
Would you introduce Harry to your friends?
My friends were already pestering me for updates before the date even ended. I’m not sure he’s ready for that kind of chaos.
Describe Harry in three words.
Active backseat participant (you had to be there).
What do you think Harry made of you?
He kindly listened to all my chatter and made it feel like a real conversation, so I hope I didn’t come across as too overwhelming.
Did you go on somewhere?
Yes, to a Scottish pub.
And… did you kiss?
I’ll let Harry answer that one.
If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?
I’d have caught the last train home instead of having to Uber back to west London.
Marks out of 10?
8.5
Would you meet again?
Well, he has my number…
—
Harry on Niamh
What were you hoping for?
Good conversation over a nice meal.
First impressions?
Great leopard-print top, lovely smile, and nice hair.
What did you talk about?
Her time in Paris, the challenges of staging Irish plays in China, and our shared appreciation for Baltic countries.
Most awkward moment?
We arrived at the same time and had a bit of an “are you, aren’t you?” moment while waiting to be seated.
Good table manners?
Flawless.He was very generous.
What’s the best thing about Niamh?
She has a strong creative side, which I really admire.
Would you introduce Niamh to your friends?
Definitely.
Describe Niamh in three words.
Compassionate, talented, adventurous.
What do you think Niamh thought of you?
Probably that I felt familiar. We come from similar backgrounds and both grew up in the same part of London.
Did you go somewhere afterward?
To a pub near the station that I’m quite fond of.
And… did you kiss?
Yes! Why not?
If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?
A slightly bigger table to fit all the food we ordered.
Marks out of 10?
8. Niamh was great company.
Would you meet again?
We exchanged numbers, but I think it would be as friends.
Niamh and Harry ate at Bubala, London N1. Interested in a blind date? Email blind.date@theguardian.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about the scenario where restaurant staff are delighted by a couple heading out on a blind date
General Questions
Q Why would restaurant staff be delighted to hear were on a blind date
A It adds a fun positive story to their shift They get to be part of a special hopeful moment and often enjoy watching the interaction and rooting for a successful date
Q Is this a common reaction from restaurant staff
A Its not guaranteed but its very common Staff in service industries often appreciate and engage with customers positive personal moments
Q Should I tell the staff were on a blind date
A Its completely up to you If you feel comfortable sharing it can often lead to a more personalized and cheerful experience If youd prefer to keep it private thats perfectly fine too
Questions About the Experience
Q What kind of extra attention might we get from the delighted staff
A You might receive a complimentary dessert or drink get a better table or experience exceptionally attentive and friendly service from staff who are invested in your date going well
Q Could this backfire and make the date more awkward
A Its possible if the staff are overly enthusiastic or draw a lot of attention to you However most professional staff are discreet and use the information to enhance your experience subtly
Q Does the type of restaurant affect their reaction
A Yes generally Staff at cozy intimate or independentlyowned restaurants are more likely to have this personal reaction than staff at a large loud or fastcasual chain
Practical Tips Advice
Q Whats the best way to mention it to the staff
A Casually when being seated or when your server asks if youre celebrating something You could say something like Were actually meeting for the first timeits a blind date
Q Should I use this as an icebreaker on the date itself
A Absolutely Noting the staffs positive reaction can be a great lowpressure way to start a conversation and laugh together about the situation
Q Is it appropriate to thank the staff for their enthusiasm at the end of the meal
