by Jennifer Bunn

Created on: June 22, 2008   Last Updated: August 31, 2008

First dates can be awkward affairs. Where you choose to have your first date can mean the difference between a great first date and unmitigated disaster. Doing some research before your date will ensure that, wherever you go, you will be sure to have a great time and your first date will be the start of something special.

Don't have the time to do the necessary research? The following is a guide to some of the best food and entertainment available in New Haven:

Food Keep in mind that first dates usually include a dining experience. When choosing a place to dine, you should consider whether you want to dine in a formal or more relaxed atmosphere.
Barcelona Wine Bar and Restaurant- Featuring Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine, this restaurant is perfect for a romantic first date.
Modern Apizza Place- For a less formal dining experience, you may want to try this restaurant, which features traditional brick-oven pizza.
Ciao Bella- Whether you choose a more or less formal dining experience for your first date, Ciao Bella should be your first choice for dessert. Specializing in homemade gelati and sorbets, it is the perfect conclusion to any meal.

Entertainment It is best to keep in mind that first dates set the tone for a continuing relationship. The activity you choose should allow for conversation and "getting to know" one another, in an atmosphere of enjoyment for both parties.
New Haven Jazz Festival- Running on consecutive Saturday nights in August, lovers of jazz music will love these free concerts featuring some of the best jazz musicians around.
The Yale Cabaret- This small basement theater offers fun and intimate musicals and plays sure to entertain.
Toad's Place- This is the place to go for music, dancing, and concerts. A drawback is that it is closed during the summer months.
Peabody Museum of Natural History- This museum offers some of the best exhibits in natural history. Exhibits are changed regularly.

Sports Attending a sporting event can be a lot of fun with no pressure on either party to provide continuous conversation. New Haven has some of the best teams in the country for spectators.
New Haven County Cutters Baseball- Games run from May to September.
University of New Haven Chargers- College football at its best.
Lady Owls Basketball- Championship-winning basketball games.

New Haven is an exciting and modern city full of interesting events and places to visit. Incorporating some of these events and places into your first date will surely lead to a successful first date.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Bunn.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.