by InTrieste
The InTrieste editorial team with the help of our magazine’s readers shares some great ideas for a first date location, from a cozy wine bar, to an intimate cinema via a restaurant that celebrates Lebanese cuisine.
Finding the perfect location for a first date is no easy feat. You want somewhere which is simultaneously discreet, full of character, but where you will not run the risk of running into your colleagues or friends. Here are some ideas for a first date in the city of Adriatic.
Trattoria al Faro
“A good location for a first date (if this first date is important enough) is the restaurant Al Faro in the Scorcola district. Firstly, because it’s hidden, and secondly because it’s really good and cute. The wine selection is amazing. And if you go for lunch, you can take a walk up to the lighthouse afterwards.”
Narciso
“It’s a difficult question because you have to find a place that gathers two essential elements: discretion (avoid anything downtown- I speak from experience), and a bit of a cool side (it’s the first date, so you have to go to a bar or a restaurant which is a bit hip). In my opinion, Narciso is the perfect mix. It’s a chic but unpretentious place in a classy neighborhood (it’s on via Trento), where you can enjoy impeccable and affordable market cuisine (another advantage if you split the bill) and great natural wines.”
Adonis Risto Bar
“Situated near Viale XX Settembre, Adonis ristobar is a Lebanese-inspired restaurant that’s both excellent and unpretentious, where the atmosphere is super friendly. The space is big enough for a quiet chat, with mezzes and delicious wines. What could be better than sharing warm and inviting food on a first date? Just avoid the onions!”
Enoteca Nanut
“Simple and efficient, Nanut has a sharp wine list and a decor that’s both warm and intimate with its mini candles on each table. There is no terrace, but you can pretend to take a cigarette break to quickly send a debriefing text to your friends about how the date is going.”
Cemut
“Because it’s the perfect place for foodies, but also for its warm atmosphere, its subdued lighting, its great selection of wines and cocktails and its low prices!“
Ostello Tergeste
“For a first date, I always choose a place with a terrace, come rain or shine (it’s easier to get out if the date goes badly). I really like Ostello Tergeste, with a gorgeous view of the sea. The flowery exterior is both intimate and warm while the wine list promises simplicity and efficiency. And if everything goes well, what better way to continue the date than with a walk in the Miramare after a glass or two…”
Pane Quotidiano Barcola
“For a brunch and cocktails to share with a sea view, Pane Quotidiano sets the scene for a moment that can only be romantic.”
Parco Urbano
“Opt for an early evening picnic in the exceptional historical setting of Parco Urbano. Choose the more intimate gardens, where the beauty of these green settings blends with an unexpected calm in the middle of Trieste. This romantic atmosphere is ideal for a first date.”
Museum Revoltella
“A first date at the Trieste’s Revoltella Museum has several advantages. 1. The lighting of the place, subdued and colorful, immersed in an intimate and warm atmosphere. 2. A visit to the museum avoids any embarrassing moments. In case there is a lull in the conversation, you can just stop and read some of the art pieces’ explanations. 3. It allows you to reach your target of 10,000 steps per day, recommended by the WHO… And if the date goes well, go upstairs to stroll between the more confidential galleries. You can lock eyes with each other through the exhibition windows, like Romeo and Juliet in the iconic aquarium scene.”
Osteria di mare alla Voliga
“If you don’t know what to expect from the first date, especially if you are meeting up with a stranger at first (“will I like them, and vice versa, will we have enough to talk about…”) I would favor a place you know, so that you feel a little more comfortable. Like the café on your street, where the familiar faces of the waiters bring moral support (and where you know where the toilets are). In this warm spirit, I would recommend Osteria di mare alla Voliga for its very Triestine decor, its revisited seafood platters, and its beautiful cocktail and wine list.“
Osmiza Stubelj
“What’s more Trieste than osmiza? Take your date up to Somiza Stubelj, try to speak Triestino to them and explain why the terrano wine is so red – and they’ll fall head over hills with you. This osmiza has a very cozy atmosphere- I would bring a date or friends here.”
Molo Audace
“I’m an old-school romantic. I love a good sunset walk and Molo Audace is the perfect place for it. Unless you see one of your exes, of course (true story).”
