Abby, a 25-year-old partnerships manager for film, and Charlie, a 26-year-old finance analyst, recently met for a blind date at Salut! restaurant in London. The evening, filled with engaging conversation and a near-accident with a candle, ultimately lacked romantic chemistry.
Abby's Perspective
Abby was hoping for a different kind of Friday night with good company and a fancy meal. Her first impression of Charlie was that he was super friendly and easy to chat to. Their conversation ranged from their jobs to rowing, cycling, book recommendations, and future travel destinations. The most awkward moment occurred when Charlie nearly set the wine menu alight with the candle on the table, but Abby found it more funny than awkward. She praised his table manners and described him as friendly, intelligent, and down-to-earth. The best thing about Charlie, in her view, was that he naturally knows a lot about everything, and she appreciated his choice of wine. She would consider introducing him to her friends, though she suspects his busy schedule might not allow for it. Abby thinks Charlie likely saw her as easy to talk to, interested, and good company for a Friday night. They did not go anywhere else afterward but stayed at the restaurant late, as time flew. There was no kiss, only a friendly hug goodbye. If she could change one thing, it would be the close proximity of tables, as neighboring diners seemed to watch and listen in. She rated the evening an 8 out of 10, citing a good night and amazing restaurant but a lack of romantic spark. She would meet again as friends, or if she ever wanted to learn how to row.
Charlie's Perspective
Charlie was hoping for a fun, flirty evening with interesting conversation. He found Abby confident and cool. They talked about books, travel, and space, but an awkward moment arose when Abby questioned the reality of the moon landing, causing Charlie to struggle to maintain a poker face. He noted Abby's good table manners and described her as friendly, outgoing, and charismatic. The best thing about Abby was that she was super easy to chat to and confident, with no real awkward moments, and they chatted for ages. He would not introduce Abby to his friends, as their interests and hobbies do not overlap much. Charlie believes Abby might have thought he was a bit much. They did not go anywhere else, as the evening got away from them. There was no kiss, as the date was not too flirty. If he could change one thing, he would have liked more flirtation, but he felt the chemistry was not there. He rated the evening a 6 out of 10. He had a great evening and found Abby easy to chat to, but he thinks they are looking for different things in a partner.
Blind Date Details
Abby and Charlie ate at Salut! in London N1. To participate in a blind date, email blind.date@theguardian.com. The feature runs every Saturday in The Guardian's Saturday magazine and online, pairing two strangers for dinner and drinks. Participants answer questions about age, location, occupation, hobbies, and interests. The match is blind, and photographs are taken before the date. Personal details published include first name, job, and age. Responses should be honest and respectful, as the column reaches a large audience. Applicants must be in the UK, though many are from London.
