In this blind date match, The NY Times introduced Lauren, 26, a charity programme manager, and Ben, 24, a pricing analyst, for an afternoon in a brewery courtyard—complete with rain, ribs, and revealing conversation. With vibrant fashion, strong first impressions, and a splash of sauce, the date was memorable, if not quite meant to be.
Lauren on Ben
Expectations:
Lauren was hoping for someone “kind, funny and warm”—an ideal companion for a relaxed and lively afternoon.
First Impressions:
“Very fashionable,” she noted, impressed by Ben’s colourful floral shirt, cool glasses, and striking metallic teal nail polish. His style certainly made a statement.
Topics of Conversation:
The two talked music, favourite comedians, hobbies, and sports. While the conversation flowed, their personalities and priorities didn’t always align.
Awkward Moments:
Lauren was taken aback by Ben’s relaxed attitude toward food. “He said he wasn’t too worried about where he eats, as long as the place doesn’t make him sick,” she said. For a self-proclaimed food enthusiast, this was a red flag.
Table Manners:
Navigating barbecue and ribs is no small feat on a first date. “Not the most demure food,” Lauren remarked, but overall, things went well.
Best Thing About Ben:
“Very chatty and outgoing,” she said, appreciating his energy and enthusiasm. His love for sports, particularly baseball and tennis, also stood out.
Would You Introduce Him to Friends?
“Maybe some, but not all.” A diplomatic answer reflecting their differences in lifestyle and temperament.
Describe Ben in Three Words:
“Outgoing, forthright and stylish.”
What Do You Think He Made of You?
She suspected he’d say it was a pleasant time but that they weren’t a match.
Did You Go On Somewhere?
No—Ben had evening plans and left soon after the meal.
And … Did You Kiss?
Just a quick hug. No sparks there.
If You Could Change One Thing?
“The rain! It was such a shame to be in a cool outdoor courtyard while it poured.”
Marks Out of 10?
6. A pleasant enough date, but not one for the storybooks.
Would You Meet Again?
Probably not. “Ben felt a bit young for me and we weren’t quite on the same wavelength.”
Ben on Lauren
Expectations:
Ben was looking for a “fun afternoon with a nice lady” and was excited to try a new restaurant.
First Impressions:
“Pretty” and carrying “a warm energy” that brightened up a gloomy, rainy day.
Topics of Conversation:
From childhood to hobbies and work, the conversation covered a lot of ground. Ben was clearly at ease.
Awkward Moments:
The date almost got off to a confusing start. “They seated us separately, so I had to ask the staff to make sure she was my date—I didn’t want to walk up to the wrong person.”
Table Manners:
Ben was charmed by Lauren’s concern about tackling her burger without a mess. “She was a little nervous about spilling it, which I found cute.”
Best Thing About Lauren:
“She was really easy to talk to.” For Ben, the date flowed effortlessly.
Would You Introduce Her to Friends?
Absolutely. “Not a shred of doubt about that.”
Describe Lauren in Three Words:
“Insightful, warm and fun.”
What Do You Think She Made of You?
“I reckon she might think I was fun, expressive and respectful.”
Did You Go On Somewhere?
No—Ben had other plans and had to head off right after.
And … Did You Kiss?
“No. I don’t do that on first dates.”
If You Could Change One Thing?
“The weather. It rained the whole date, and we were outside.”
Marks Out of 10?
9. “It was a great date—no awkward silences and good conversation.”
Would You Meet Again?
“Yes, I would definitely like to.”
Final Verdict
This date had all the makings of a good afternoon—easy conversation, good vibes, and shared laughter—but the underlying chemistry wasn’t quite there for Lauren. While Ben left hopeful and gave the day a high score, Lauren felt the lifestyle mismatch and age difference were too big to ignore.
One Date. Two Perspectives. One Plate of Ribs. Sometimes, even when the talk is great and the company kind, romance needs more than good nail polish and shared pudding to take hold.
