Buzz
In a mind often clouded by doubt and stress, one conviction remains unshakable: I excel at making menu choices. Entrust me with deciding what to order, and the results will always delight. This applies to both dishes and drinks.
Mastering the art of ordering isn’t easy, but two strategies I consistently use are sure to impress not only your date but sometimes even the server: Choose an unconventional wine and ask for extra butter on the side.
What qualifies as an 'unconventional' wine?
You’ll recognize the unconventional wine the moment you spot it. There’s always something distinctive about it—whether it’s an unusual color (like orange wine), an unexpected region (such as Hungary instead of the usual California, France, or Italy), or a variety that stands out on the menu (like Lambrusco). If it’s listed, it’s there for a reason, and you can trust it will be exceptional.
If these terms are unfamiliar, a quick bit of research will help. You don’t need to dive into the specifics of fermentation, but it’s good to know that orange wine isn’t made from oranges (it’s a white wine fermented with grape skins, similar to red wine production) and that Lambrusco isn’t just sweet and syrupy. Dry and off-dry Lambrusco is effervescent, rich in flavor, affordable, and pairs wonderfully with everything from pizza to charcuterie. While “pet nats” (naturally sparkling pétillant-naturel wines) are also a solid choice, they’re more mainstream and lack the unique appeal of orange wine or Lambrusco.
Request extra butter for the table
Asking for additional butter is a bold move on a first date. I’ve highlighted this tactic in the past because it’s undeniably impressive. It exudes confidence and shows your date that you value indulgence, flavor, and enjoyment. Plus, it eliminates any awkwardness around butter rationing.
This gesture also conveys maturity. As I’ve mentioned before, it shows you’re a provider—someone who’s considerate, attentive to others’ needs, and skilled at communicating politely yet effectively with service staff. In short, it demonstrates that you’re a grown-up, which is exactly the impression you want to make on a date.
