So you've both swiped right, and now it's time to pick a spot to meet for the first time. You're looking for something casual (in case things go off the rails), but still fun and sociable (in case they go better than expected). From an atmospheric cup of coffee to a low-pressure meal, here are five affordable spots in Austin that are perfect for those occasionally awkward initial meetings, no matter how they turn out.
After-Work Happy Hour: Small Victory
Downtown
One of Austin's best cocktail bars also offers one of its best happy hours: on weekdays, every glass of rosé, sparkling wine, fortified wine, beer, and cider is half-off, as is a rotating item of cheese and charcuterie (in case you need a snack). Cocktail die-hards can opt for a "bartender's daiquiri" for just $6. The dimly lit, intimate atmosphere is perfect for a date, and you won't have to rush out of work to catch the discounts: they run from 5-8pm.
A Cup of Coffee: Patika
South Austin/ South Lamar District
With a stellar selection of coffees from roasters around the country, even the most hardcore coffee-snob date will find something to like at Patika. The Nordic-influenced design creates a relaxing vibe for conversation, and if the date goes well, you can segue into a beer or glass of wine. Be sure to try the excellent house-baked pastries, which include margarita cookies and cinnamon roll scones.
Playing a Game Together: Buffalo Billiards
Sixth Street/Downtown
Pool, foosball, pinball, shuffleboard, skee ball, air hockey—this massive bar offers no end of opportunities to test your date's mettle. Face off in a couple of rounds, then cool down at the bar with a Lone Star tallboy or a fruity drink like the Schnozberries (raspberry vodka, peach schnapps, pineapple juice, and a splash of cranberry). If you root for the same team, it's also a great place to watch someone else play, with sports on more than 30 TVs.
A Fast-Casual Meal: Three Little Pigs & The Aristocrat Lounge
Allandale
One of the best things about dating in Austin is food trucks at bars, which make it easy to have a low-pressure meal (no waiters!) with an obvious next move if things are going well (want to get another drink?) Try it for yourself at this long-running food truck favorite, conveniently located at the Aristocrat Lounge. Kick things off with an order of the famed Asian fried chicken and pork belly sliders. If there's chemistry, head inside for another drink and some skee ball or shuffleboard.
Dessert For Two: Cream Whiskers
West Campus
Dessert is a nice alternative to coffee or a drink, especially on a mid-afternoon date. And the elaborate cream puffs at this little bakery and coffee shop make for great conversation-starters, especially when it comes to choosing what to order (brown butter pecan, strawberry, or cookies and cream cheesecake?) As an added bonus, it's owned by a husband and wife, so romance is baked into the building.
