So, you’ve swiped or like or poked or whatever and now the time has come to move your digital flirting into the real world. But, the big question: where to take your online date? It’s a tough question, especially given the spectrum of apps at our disposal in the year of our lord 2018. We understand the whole ordeal can be stressful, so we went ahead and mapped out which date spot is right for you based on which app you’re using. And yes, we expect an invitation to the wedding. Open bar, please!
Hinge
Hinge is marketed to singles searching for “real connections,” a sort of antidote to the casual hook-up app. Users answer questions and create a more personal profile, so, hopefully, you’ll have some things to talk about with your date. Thus, you’ll probably want somewhere where you can both sit down and have a conversation. We’ll give you two options in case you’re a little nervous: Employee’s Only or the Anderson. Pick the swank Employee’s Only if you’re looking to impress and can handle picking up the $15-per-cocktail tab at the end of the date. The Anderson is a tad more casual and kitschy but every bit as delicious. Happy hour is generally quite chill too. Park yourself in one of the cozy red leather booths and try not to bring up your ex!
Tinder
Ah, Tinder, an app for those brave souls who like to say yes to life, no matter how shirtless or oiled up it may look in its profile pictures. For your Tinder date, you’ll need somewhere equally as bold (with clearly marked exits). How about Wynwood’s thumping Rácket? There’s music, dancing and plenty of cocktails to choose from. It’s classy enough to make you feel like you’re on a date but wild enough to encourage some “turning-up,” as the kids say.
Bumble
Bumble is a happy medium for people who are scared of Tinder but still want to get their swipe on. On this app, the girls initiate the conversation, so you don’t have to worry about creeps blowing up your phone and asking to see pictures of your feet. Bumble dates are usually casual but you still want to impress. So try Lagniappe for your first date. The pretty outdoor wine bar will set the mood wonderfully. The outdoor seating gives you some space to chat, but if it’s too hot you can always go inside for a more intimate setting. There’s live music sometimes too, which can take the pressure off if you run out of things to talk about (pro-tip: another bottle of wine can help with that too).
The League
The League is an exclusive dating app that not just any old schlub can join. No, you must apply to be part of the League. Applicants are judged based on things like what college they went to, their career and referrals from other League members. So obviously you’ll need to do better than the McDonald’s drive-through or risk being banned from the League for eternity. Sugar should be bougie enough for your ivy league taste buds. The buzzy Brickell rooftop bar will put you exactly where you see yourself in society: 40-floors above everyone else.
Grindr
The ol’ reliable LGBT dating app is still going strong, forging queer love stories that can last for a night or a lifetime. Take your Grindr date to Gramps for some guaranteed fun. The LGBT-friendly bar hosts a weekly rotation of very fun events such as drag queen bingo on Wednesday and the spectacular Double Stubble drag show every Thursday. Of course, any day of the week, you can always just hop into a booth, order a pair of Moscow mules and get to know each other.
Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.