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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle

Blind date: ‘I got there early and thought the waitress was my date’

Harry and Eileen, smiling.

Harry on Eileen

Harry, wearing a purple shirt and black jeans.

What were you hoping for?
A fun experience doing something new – this is my first blind date. And to meet someone I could have a nice time with.

First impressions?
We got along straight away. Eileen was really easy to talk to and held a great conversation.

What did you talk about?
Places we had travelled. Where we grew up. The struggles of dating in London. Favourite foods and cuisines. Hobbies. We went through our Spotify Wrapped together: we both want to go and see Noah Kahan.

Most awkward moment?
I got to the restaurant early, which meant I had an awkward moment where I thought a waitress was Eileen!

Good table manners?
Mexican food can be tricky but her manners were great.

Best thing about Eileen?
She was really easy to get along with. She also suggested we get a shot of tequila – it was a Mexican restaurant after all.

Would you introduce Eileen to your friends?
Yes, I think they would get along really well. We all share a sense of humour.

Describe Eileen in three words.
Approachable, funny, kind.

What do you think Eileen made of you?
Maybe that I’m an easygoing person. She probably also picked up on the fact I play a lot of hockey.

Did you go on somewhere?
Yes, there was a pub open next door.

And ... did you kiss?
No, but we did swap numbers.

If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be?
To do it on a night when neither of us needed to be up early for work the next day.

Marks out of 10?
9.

Would you meet again?
Yes, it would be nice.

Eileen and Harry on their date in London on a rainy night.
Eileen and Harry on their date Photograph: From Harry

Eileen on Harry

Eileen, wearing a white top and animal-print skirt

What were you hoping for?
To enjoy some tacos (the restaurant had been on my list for a while) and have a laugh with someone new.

First impressions?
Well dressed and funny: I felt relaxed from the off. Conversation flowed naturally, which was a nice surprise.

What did you talk about?
Places we’ve travelled. Running. Family. Music. A highlight was Harry trying to describe what tropical house music sounds like.

Most awkward moment?
He was sitting down when I arrived. I worried I was going to be taller than him in my high-heeled boots. I wasn’t.

Good table manners?
Excellent, wine etiquette and all.

Best thing about Harry?
How at ease he made me feel.

Would you introduce Harry to your friends?
Sure. They’d get on – he’s a good laugh.

Describe Harry in three words.
Funny, confident, genuine.

What do you think Harry made of you?
Chaotic to start, but hopefully a nice person to share a bottle of wine with.

Did you go on somewhere?
Just to the pub next door.

And ... did you kiss?
We didn’t. It was a first date so I didn’t want to rush into anything.

If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be?
I wouldn’t have worn heels – not worth the panic.

Marks out of 10?
8.

Would you meet again?
I’d be up for it. We exchanged numbers but I guess time will tell.

Harry and Eileen ate at El Pastor, London SE1. Fancy a blind date? Email blind.date@theguardian.com

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