One would think that two people game to go on a blind date are up for trying new things. We put that theory to the test when we sent Laura, 24, out with Jason, 30, to Pergola. The new Flatiron Mediterranean restaurant offers hookah, which Jason had never tried. Did Laura, who has taken some tokes in the past, manage to convince Jason there’s a first time for everything — or did the date go up in smoke?
She said:
Jason and I were both early. He was tall, cute and had a nice smile. I could tell by his facial hair and shirt he was from Williamsburg, which was disappointing because I live in uptown Manhattan and that commute is really bad on weekends.
Jason seemed a bit quiet and reserved compared to my very outspoken snark, but he was sweet and made me laugh as we went down the line of NYC small talk.
Pergola isn’t the type of place I’d normally go, but the food and drinks were great, as was the hookah. Jason never smoked it before, and I’m not sure he enjoyed it, but he took it like a champ. Our waitress was great, too. I can see myself going back there.
We exchanged numbers , so maybe we’ll see each other again. If not, I can see us being friends — as long as I don’t have to go to Williamsburg too often.
He said:
Laura and I met at the front as we were waiting to be seated. She was cute and wearing a sweet “Jaws” T-shirt.
Laura and I clicked right away — the conversation was never boring. We talked about awkward dates and all the usual pitfalls and interesting stories about online dating.
The food and drinks at Pergola were all quite good. Laura started with a hot toddy; I drank a martini. Pergola has an awesome Mediterranean menu, and I tried hookah for the first time.
When we finally split, we exchanged numbers and said a nice goodbye. I had a fun time. We’ll see what happens from here, but regardless, the date was enjoyable.