Wine, Vibes, and No Bad Chairs: My Secret Formula for a 1st Date Bar Win in Tri-Cities

Seriously, is romance dead?

Okay, let's be real. Finding a first-date bar that isn't a total vibe-killer is harder than it should be. I mean, to begin with, I don't think having a first date at a bar would be ideal. But if you were to have your first date with someone at a bar or maybe a bar/restaurant, which one would you choose?

Learn what I think you should look for an unforgettable 1st date, plus see the top 3 places I think you'll have the perfect first date in the Tri-Cities.

A Few Certain Elements Need to be Present for a Great First Date

I've done my research, and I've got opinions. (Surprise!) Let's talk about what actually makes a first-date bar work, from the right music to the perfect wine list, and why a charming server can be a total game-changer.

Element #1: Seating

I often wonder if these places even think about comfortable seating. If I'm honest, I'll admit that I haven't dated enough to know for sure what other people want in a bar for a first date. But I think it's hard not to be distracted with discomfort if you are seated in uncomfortable chairs. So, comfortable seating is first on my list!

Trust me, nothing kills a potential spark faster than trying to focus on witty banter while your butt bones are screaming from sitting on a metal chair! Or how about the loud, annoying noise those metal chairs make every time someone pulls one out to sit in or pushes it in when leaving?

And don't even get me started on unflattering fluorescent lighting and loud, open-seating, cafeteria-style crowd noise. This is just painful.

Element #2: Atmosphere

Is the chatter so loud you can't hear yourself think? Is there noise coming from the kitchen? Poor lighting and tacky decor? Does it smell weird like they never replaced the carpet from when smoking was allowed in bars? That would not be ideal for an intimate conversation or a romantic vibe, at least in my opinion.

Since I'm writing the story, I guess I get to share my opinion, (LOL) But, seriously, I want yours too.

Element #3: The Background Music

I've played music at lots of area venues through the years. I'm constantly amazed at how many venues are just simply NOT pleasant to be in. Next, what do they have going on there? If it's live entertainment, I think a solo guitar player or a duo is more than enough to add a touch of romantic energy.

Music is always a good mood enhancer (unless it's too loud or obnoxious music). But nothing says romance like a song playing softly in the background while you gaze into each other's eyes or a quietly played song with a good groove.

If it happens to be a live band, there needs to be comfortable seating far enough from the stage area so you can have those great first date conversations. Then, if all is going well, maybe a dance is in order close to the stage.

Element #4: Now that those things clear, we have to talk about the food!

So how am I doing so far? Do you agree with any of this?

My Secret Formula for a First-Date Bar Win Is Perfect for Dating in WA

This is Element #5: The Venue. While there are many qualities needed for a first date night, I think there is one clear choice when it comes to the perfect venue. Here's the list of what we are looking for in a venue for a first date.

1. Comfortable Seating- Cozy booths, soft seating
2.  Romantic Atmosphere- lighting, appealing decor
3. Appropriate Entertainment- Good acoustics, soft music
4. Good Food: I like a place that has variety of appetizers and yummy entrees.
5. Affordability: Every place should be affordable
6. Good Wine List: Your first date place should have a good wine list to pair the food with.
7.  Friendly Staff: A great server can add so much to the conversation and overall feel of the evening and can even help a first date seem less awkward. 

So, here are my choices for the top 3 perfect places to have a great first date in the Tri-Cities. Drum Roll Please....

1. @Michelle's in Richland- 2323 Henderson Loop, Richland. It has all these attributes, followed by the next two.

2. The Bradley, 404 Bradley Blvd #106, Richland

3.  The Social, 709 George Washington Way, Richland

Those are my top 3. Let me know yours. Send me an app chat!

Ultimately, the best place for a first date depends on your and your date's individual preferences. But I hope this helps to get you thinking about what kind of venue you want to go to if you do have a first date. Or any date for that matter!