14 Foods You Should Never Order on a First Date (If You Want a Second One)

First dates are exciting opportunities to make a memorable impression, but even the best conversation can be derailed by an awkward food choice. Certain dishes are notorious for causing messes, bad breath, or uncomfortable moments that can take the focus off connecting and onto damage control. Knowing which foods to avoid can help ensure the evening is smooth and enjoyable, setting the stage for future outings.

1. Spaghetti and Long Noodles

Long, saucy noodles like spaghetti are infamous for causing splatters and awkward slurping noises. They can be difficult to eat gracefully, even for the most coordinated. The risk of red sauce stains on your clothes—or your date’s—makes this dish a gamble. Opt for short pasta or rice dishes instead for a neater option.

2. Ribs and Barbecue

Ribs and barbecue are delicious but notoriously messy. Sticky fingers, sauce-covered cheeks, and napkin overload can make for a less-than-romantic dining experience. Even with the best intentions, it’s hard to eat ribs without making a mess. Save this finger-licking favorite for a more casual get-together or a later date.

3. Garlic-Heavy Dishes

Garlic is beloved for its flavor but notorious for lingering breath. Garlic-heavy dishes like garlic bread or pasta can leave a powerful aftertaste that no mint can mask. On a first date, it’s best to keep breath fresh and inviting.

4. Onions and Onion Rings

Onions, whether raw in salads or fried in rings, can leave a pungent scent on your breath and hands. They’re also difficult to mask with gum or mints. If you want to keep conversation close and comfortable, steer clear of onion-laden dishes.

5. Extra-Spicy Foods

Ordering ultra-spicy dishes can lead to watery eyes, runny noses, and an uncomfortable dining experience. Not everyone handles heat the same, so it’s safer to choose milder options until you know your date’s preferences.

6. Shellfish (Crab, Lobster, etc.)

Crab, lobster, and other shellfish usually require cracking shells and digging for meat, which can be messy and time-consuming. The risk of splatters, flying bits, and lingering seafood smell can overshadow the meal. Unless you’re both seafood lovers with a knack for shelling, it’s wise to choose a less labor-intensive dish.

7. Large Burgers

Oversized burgers can be difficult to eat gracefully. Juices and toppings often spill out, making for a messy and unflattering experience. If you’re craving a burger, opt for a smaller, manageable option or a knife-and-fork approach.

8. Sushi with Lots of Sauces

While sushi can be a great date food, rolls drenched in sauces or oversized pieces can be tricky to handle. Excess soy sauce or wasabi drips add to the potential mess. Choose simple, bite-sized pieces for a neater, more enjoyable experience.

9. Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob almost guarantees kernels stuck in teeth and butter on fingers. It’s a delicious side, but one best enjoyed in private or among friends. For a first date, opt for kernel-off-the-cob preparations.

10. Spinach and Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like spinach have a knack for sticking in teeth without you noticing. This can lead to embarrassing moments mid-conversation. If you choose a salad, check your smile before returning to the table.

11. Sloppy Joes and Overstuffed Sandwiches

Sandwiches packed to the brim tend to fall apart and spill fillings everywhere. Sloppy Joes are the ultimate culprit, requiring multiple napkins and a careful balancing act. Choose tidier sandwiches or wraps for a more composed meal.

12. Buffalo Wings

Buffalo wings are tasty but require hands-on eating, resulting in sticky fingers and orange-stained lips. The mess factor and the potential for spicy sauce mishaps make wings a risky first-date pick.

13. Beans and Legumes

Beans are healthy, but they can cause bloating and unwanted digestive noises. They’re also known for their potential to cause embarrassing gas. For a comfortable evening, it’s wise to skip bean-based dishes on your first outing.

14. Super-Sized Salads

Large, elaborate salads can be tough to eat neatly—think unwieldy lettuce leaves, rolling cherry tomatoes, and splattering dressings. They may also require lots of cutting and rearranging, making the meal feel high-maintenance. Choose smaller, more manageable salads instead. S

Conclusion

Food can set the tone for a first date—choose wisely to keep the focus on conversation and chemistry rather than awkward moments or messy mishaps. By steering clear of these 14 foods, you can help ensure your evening is memorable for all the right reasons. When in doubt, opt for simple, easy-to-eat meals that leave you both comfortable and confident. Here’s to a great first impression and an even better second date.

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