Spice It Up
Last updated: 10/11/2006 - 10:43
What you eat speaks volumes about what you want out of a romance.
Do you like it spicy? What you eat on those all important first dates says a great deal about how adventurous you are all round...
Spicy Chinese or Thai food is the number one choice for those out to impress on a first date, according to onr study.
Just over 70% of the British public cook a special dish, when they want to impress potential partners. True to the old adage that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach, 64% of those questioned spend more time dreaming up the perfect menu, than co-ordinating their outfit.
Although 68% agreed that a home-cooked meal was more romantic than eating out, 80% said that cooking on a first date could look over-keen.
Food Foreplay?
Social psychologist Dr Petra Boynton, who conducted the survey, says that your choice of first meal together reflects your expectations in the romance stakes: "For example a roast has overtones of family dinners, hardly conducive to a passion-filled evening. However, exotic foods such as Chinese or Thai suggest a streak of adventure, which research has shown to be far more appealing to a partner."
With food as the new foreplay, 67% of women admitted to suffering from the so-called 'Jamie Oliver Syndrome' and judging their date by his kitchen, rather than his bedroom prowess.
Men would be well advised to take a few tips form the pukka king of cookery, as 65% of women say a man who can't help out in the kitchen is a real turn-off.
Looking for a special dish to cook for that big night? There's a few dozen or so choice recipes to be seen in our 'Food and Drink' section that might be worth checking out. Whether you're after a spicy main course, a tantalising starter or a delicious dessert, there's plenty to choose from.
More information available in Dining Out, Eating In, Entertaining, Naughty But Nice