In the latest instalment of the Guardian's long-running Blind Date column, two strangers, Alfie and Sam, were paired up for an evening of dinner and drinks in London, offering a candid glimpse into modern dating dynamics.
The Daters: A Playwright and a Tech Worker
Alfie, a 31-year-old playwright, met Sam, a 33-year-old professional working in the tech industry, at Nora in London's E22 postcode. The setup, which has been a staple of Saturday magazine since 2009, aims to spark connections through shared experiences and honest conversations.
First Impressions and Initial Awkwardness
Alfie described Sam as having a great smile and lovely energy, though the evening began with a minor hiccup when they were seated at separate tables. This led to a few awkward glances until the manager realised they were on a blind date and rectified the situation. Sam, on the other hand, noted Alfie's bubbly and outgoing personality, appreciating his punctuality as an A+ trait.
Conversation Topics and Awkward Moments
Their discussion spanned a variety of subjects, from the differences between American and British English, such as trunk versus boot, to politics and personal goals for 2026. Alfie shared a humorous yet concerning story about a past date where he nearly drowned in Hampstead Heath ponds, which Sam found more alarming than amusing, marking it as the most awkward moment. Other topics included dating horror stories, trash TV, and the challenges and joys of navigating one's 20s and 30s.
Table Manners and Personal Insights
Sam praised Alfie's excellent table manners, contrasting them with his own self-described unrefined American dining skills. Alfie admired Sam's mantra for 2026, which involves saying yes more, and was impressed by his decision to relocate to London for a fresh start. Both expressed a willingness to introduce each other to their friends, highlighting the fun and engaging nature of their interaction.
Post-Date Reflections and Social Media Exchange
When asked about the possibility of a kiss, Alfie noted they shared two hugs and a follow on Instagram, with Sam humorously remarking that exchanging Instas among gay men is close to the same thing. Alfie rated the date a solid 7 out of 10, while Sam gave it an 8, though both acknowledged a strong friend vibe rather than romantic chemistry. They agreed to meet again as friends, with Alfie stating there wasn't a romantic spark for him.
Blind Date Column Details and Application Process
The Guardian's Blind Date column, which appears every Saturday in print and online, pairs two strangers based on shared interests and preferences. Applicants provide details such as age, location, occupation, and hobbies, though matches are not chosen by the participants. The column features first names, jobs, and ages, with answers edited for length and clarity. Interested individuals can apply by emailing blind.date@theguardian.com, with the service limited to UK residents.
Final Thoughts from Alfie and Sam
Alfie described Sam in three words as confident, fun, and irreverent, while Sam characterised Alfie as energetic, funny, and curious. Both reflected on the evening positively, with Sam wishing he had read the menu ahead of time as his only regret. The date concluded with them heading to the station, embracing the foggy London night as a fitting end to their encounter.
