Advice you can taste. Adventure you can feel.

Freaking out about the First Date?

Here’s what to do…

The most important thing to consider is finding a comfortable atmosphere to avoid potential awkwardness.  A first date can be exciting, but it can also be a disaster with the wrong person.  Ryoko’s Restaurant & Bar in Nob Hill is the perfect underground treasure for a wary two-some that isn’t quite sure if they have legs to stand on.

As you approach the red Japanese characters decorating an awning on Taylor St, you and your date will feel like you’re on the edge of a small Kyoto secret.  As you descend, you will be pleasantly surprised to find a DJ spinning down-tempo beats atop a grand piano and a young vibrant staff ready to top off your sake till 2am.  If “name that song” or people watching doesn’t do the trick, there’s enough sushi combos to keep the conversation flowing even if you two aren’t.

After Dinner…?

If the date is going well, stay at Ryoko’s.  The club-like energy is ideal for first timers who aren’t quite ready for candlelight and a bottle of champagne, but wouldn’t mind sitting in close proximity to a potential soulmate.  Or, consider walking up the hill towards Grace Cathedral and admire the colorful mosaic outside the Nob Hill Masonic Auditorium.  If the doors are still open, pick up a list of upcoming shows.

If the date is not going well, kindly escort your date into a cab on Sutter St. and try your luck in the Redwood Room down the street at the Clift Hotel.

Ryoko’s Restaurant & Bar

619 Taylor Street

San Francisco, CA 94102

Nob Hill Masonic Center

1111 California Street

San Francisco, CA 94108

Redwood Room

495 Geary Street

San Francisco, CA 94102

Clift Hotel

495 Geary Street

San Francisco, CA 94102