This week's Blind Date brought together Myrna, 52, a management consultant with a love of oil painting, and Manos, 55, a marketing manager and published author who dabbles in skydiving. Over shared plates, spirited conversation, and a few shots of tequila, the two explored everything from climate change and art to Greek travel tips and British identity—but was it a romantic match or just a stimulating evening?
First Impressions: Comfortable, Polite, and Easygoing
Myrna approached the date with modest hopes: mainly, to avoid that dreadful feeling of instant regret when meeting someone new over a full meal. But her fears were quickly put to rest. She found Manos “comfortable in his skin, attractive and polite,” and was pleasantly surprised by how naturally the conversation flowed.
Manos, meanwhile, arrived with higher expectations: “To meet the love of my life!” he admitted. But he was equally content to settle for a fun evening with good company—and Myrna certainly delivered. He was struck by how easy she was to talk to, and they even ordered exactly the same food, a small but satisfying coincidence for a self-professed non-food-sharer.
Conversation Topics: Skydiving, Tomatoes, and Tequila Truths
The duo quickly found common ground and dove into a rich conversation that included:
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Their demanding work lives
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Mutual disdain for early mornings
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Climate change and environmental concerns
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Home gardening (with a particular focus on when to plant tomatoes)
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Art and hobbies (Myrna paints, Manos jumps out of planes)
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Russian politics and geopolitical tensions
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What defines "Britishness"
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Favourite destinations in mainland Greece
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And, of course, Mexican food
Myrna appreciated how Manos gave her space to contribute, especially when building on topics he initiated. “If he had spoken about something and I came in with a comment,” she said, “he made sure to leave me space to talk.” A thoughtful gesture she clearly valued.
Manos, on the other hand, wondered if he'd talked too much, especially under tequila’s influence. “I probably talked too much, but tequila has that effect on me,” he admitted, half-jokingly. He also owned up to throwing in some controversial topics—more for discussion’s sake than because he held those views.
Mishaps and Manners
Not everything went smoothly, but the hiccups only added to the charm.
Myrna had a brief moment of panic when the waiter delivered their main course while she was still working on her starter—and in the process, she dropped a full fork, narrowly avoiding a disaster on her lap.
Manos recalled the awkwardness of starting the date with finger food: “She went for the knife and fork; I used my hands.” Still, both agreed the food was tricky to manage, and manners were maintained under the circumstances.
Best Qualities
Myrna on Manos:
“Considerate, well-informed, multi-faceted.”
She especially valued his ability to make space in the conversation and his depth of knowledge across a wide range of topics.
Manos on Myrna:
“Open, confident, beautiful smile.”
He was drawn to her intellect, warmth, and storytelling—particularly her ability to speak meaningfully about her work and her life experiences.
Did They Kiss?
No kiss, and no afterparty either. Myrna joked, “Does the bus stop count?” when asked if they went on somewhere. Manos noted that by the end of the evening it was raining, late, and they had already shared a few drinks. Their night ended on a friendly note, with smiles but no spark.
If They Could Change One Thing...
Myrna would have fixed the Google Maps mishap that led her eight minutes away to a building site.
Manos would have preferred better weather, and if that wasn’t possible, at least quieter music at the start of their meal.
Final Verdict
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Myrna’s score: 7/10
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Manos’s score: 8/10
Both had an enjoyable, stimulating evening—but neither felt a romantic connection was forming.
Would they meet again?
“Not likely,” said Manos, “but if we bumped into each other, we’d carry on the conversation.”
Myrna echoed the sentiment: “I think we both had a pleasant evening, but the chemistry wasn’t there. I’ve enjoyed the experience, though.”
Final Thoughts
This wasn’t a love match, but it was a thoroughly interesting meeting between two intelligent, thoughtful people who know how to hold a good conversation—even with a spilled fork and a splash of tequila in the mix.
