First dates are all about getting to know each other, but some foods can really throw a wrench in your plans. Whether it’s the smell, the mess, or the effort required to eat it, certain dishes are better left for another time. To help you navigate the menu with confidence, we’ve compiled a list of foods to avoid. Stick to these tips, and you’ll be sure to keep the focus on your charming personality rather than your dinner mishaps.
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Spaghetti and Meatballs
Spaghetti and meatballs might be a comfort food favorite, but they’re a nightmare to eat gracefully. The long noodles splatter sauce everywhere, and the meatballs can be tricky to cut without making a mess. You’ll spend more time worrying about not staining your outfit than enjoying your date. Save this classic dish for a more relaxed setting.
Ribs
Ribs are delicious but incredibly messy, requiring you to eat with your hands and inevitably get sauce all over your face. It’s hard to look sophisticated while gnawing on a bone. Plus, the sticky fingers and barbecue aroma aren’t exactly date-friendly. Opt for something less hands-on to keep things neat.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread might seem harmless, but the strong garlic odor can linger on your breath long after the meal is over. No one wants to worry about bad breath when leaning in for a conversation or a kiss. It’s better to choose a dish with less pungent ingredients. This way, you can stay fresh and confident.
Crab Legs
Crab legs require a lot of effort and skill to eat, involving cracking shells and picking out meat. This process can be awkward and time-consuming, detracting from your conversation. Additionally, the risk of squirting juice and bits of shell flying around isn’t worth it. Pick something simpler to enjoy.
Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is another messy food that’s difficult to eat gracefully. It gets stuck in your teeth and can be awkward to gnaw on while trying to maintain a conversation. You don’t want to spend the evening picking kernels out of your mouth. Choose a more manageable side dish instead.
Buffalo Wings
Buffalo wings are tasty but notoriously messy, often leaving your fingers and face coated in sticky sauce. They’re also tricky to eat without making a mess of your napkin and plate. The spiciness can be a gamble if you’re not sure of your date’s tolerance. It’s safer to go for something less messy and spicy.
Burgers
Burgers are delicious but can be cumbersome to eat, especially if they’re loaded with toppings. The risk of everything sliding out and making a mess is high. You don’t want to worry about sauce dripping down your hands and chin. A fork-and-knife dish might be a better bet.
Tacos
Tacos are delicious but notoriously messy, often falling apart after the first bite. The fillings can spill out, and it’s hard to eat them without making a mess of your hands and plate. Save tacos for a more casual outing. Choose something more structured and less likely to crumble.
Oysters
Oysters are considered a delicacy, but they can be an acquired taste and tricky to eat. The slurping and the texture might not be appealing to everyone. Additionally, they can be a bit awkward to consume in front of someone new. Opt for something less polarizing and easier to handle.
Hot Dogs
Hot dogs are a casual food that can be messy, especially with lots of toppings. The risk of condiments spilling out and staining your clothes is high. Plus, they can be tricky to eat without looking a bit sloppy. Choose something easier to handle and less likely to cause spills.
This article originally appeared on RetailShout.
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