In this Guardian blind date edition, Abhijit, 34, a software engineer, and Alanna, 29, a doctor, enjoyed a thoughtful and engaging dinner, even if Cupid didn’t show up with a reservation.
Abhijit on Alanna: “Curious, passionate and kind”
Abhijit hoped for fun conversation and the novelty of a blind date – and got exactly that. He was immediately struck by Alanna’s warmth and curiosity, especially her passion for cuisine and culture. They talked travel, politics, careers, and even standup comedy.
While he noted they were at “different places in life” and lacked overlapping interests, he still gave the night a 9/10 and would gladly meet again as friends. Also, no kissing on first dates for Abhijit – gentleman rules.
Alanna on Abhijit: “Interesting, engaged and animated”
Alanna came in hoping for the love of her life, or at least a story. She got both – just not the romantic kind. After being redirected to the right table by waitstaff (awkward but endearing), she found Abhijit friendly, open, and full of interesting stories.
Highlights included a discussion about Wetherspoon’s hot chocolate as medicine and Abhijit’s bold (Italian-heretical) pizza topping choice: chicken and pineapple. Alanna rated the evening a 7/10 – fabulous, but “no romantic spark.” Her only regret? Not eating the last onion bhaji.
Verdict: Bhajis over butterflies
Though their interests didn’t quite align for romance, both had a great evening of laughs and lively conversation. Abhijit’s love for culinary culture and Alanna’s dry wit made for a memorable match – just not a lasting one.
Prediction: No second date, but if they cross paths at a curry night, they’ll toast with mango lassis and reminisce about the great onion bhaji that got away.
