I love Mexican Food. But, probably not a good choice for a first date. Macaroni Grill used to be my go to place.

If I don't really know them (internet date), I like Chili's or a mexican food place.
Applebee's kinda sucks anymore. I used to like going there (not on dates) because the waitresses were generally easy.
A known fixture, easy to find, safe, comfortable, normal, public.
If the date sucks I can get it to go immediately.
And you can get things like bottomless chips and salsa and sit there for 3,4,10 hours and awkward new emotion nibble and talk if you want.

Otherwise, if I know them a little bit, I find it's better to choose something local, not a chain, that offers food I know they'll like or want to try. Make it more about sharing a new or unique experience than getting together at an arbitrary place to "talk and get to know each other."


Although, I've always wanted to challenge someone to an eating contest at a casino buffet. Just go crazy on fried shrimp or whatever until we can't move. Then sit next to each other and play nickel slots as we groan and drink metamucil. Crap I'm getting old.

For a first date usually one of the chains like Chili's, TGI Fridays, Longhorns, Outback or a local chain like Bubba Gumps. Because the menu's usually have something for everyone.

Sea side restaurants with good music preferably jazz or piano instrumental music, the view is nice and you can have any food you want to order, the ambiance is perfect for two people getting to know each other.

Starbucks will just be fine...It is not about the food...What is more important is your date...if there isn't anything that interests you then you can just gulp on your coffee right away and say your goodbyes politely....lolzzzz

If you expect to get freaky later...no ruffage.

Italian fine dining creates a good friendly caring atmosphere

Personally, I think that the best first dates are the ones which require little or no money.

Picnic in the park, people watching, walking along the beach, etc...

Reason for that is to really get to know one another without money being a factor.

2nd date is where you splash out on something, because you like the other half for what they genuinely are, and then it's time to impress. :)

Just the way I personally like to do things. Each to their own i guess.