Blind Date: Hannah and the Mermaid

Whether you’re pro or anti Valentine’s Day, there’s nothing anyone likes more than a little bit of snooping and The Stand (call us Cupid) are here to provide you with this week’s fix.

Warning: It’s sickeningly sweet…

This week we sent 3rd Year Hannah Chinn (self-confessed art history buff and quasi-professional chef) and 4th Year Dave Patterson (Mermaids’ President and general king of St Andrews performance) to Forgan’s, for what looks to be The Stand’s most successful set up yet!

Hannah on Dave

Who and what were you hoping for?

I was given a few hints about who it might be, so I did a little sleuthing and tried to make an educated guess. I was hoping for a nice meal and possibly a new friend.

First impressions?

Absolute shock that one of my guesses was right and that I should probably consider a career as a Private Eye…and I was happy he got there before me.

What did you talk about?

Genuinely everything. We even managed to discuss infamous “first date taboos” such as politics and religion with absolutely no upset.

Would you introduce your date to your friends?

Those that don’t already know him, certainly.

Go anywhere after the date?

We went for a drink at the St Andrews Brewing Company.

What was Forgan’s like?

Very good! The food was excellent and the wait-staff were very attentive, as always.

Will you be seeing each other again?

That question is a yes in St Andrews because you never see anyone just the once. But I wouldn’t say no to another meeting.

Rating out of 10 for the date:

I don’t believe in the perfect 10, but this came pretty close.

Dave on Hannah

Who and what were you hoping for?

I was hoping for a fun evening full of laughter and good conversation. Actually, I was hoping for an American since I’d never been on a date with one before and movies and my time in St Andrews have always left me wanting more. Though I guess secretly I was hoping that I wouldn’t make a complete tit of myself.

First impressions?

I arrived a little early – there’s a first time for everything – and sat nervously waiting while the waiter asked me twice if I’d like a drink. Did I look like I needed one? Hannah was beautiful and so well dressed, she seemed so relaxed though she insisted she was nervous! We laughed and launched straight into conversation.

What did you talk about?

We talked about a lot of things. Berlin, the art and museums there. If having British parents makes you more inclined to drink- not a bad thing. We talked a bit about Woody Allen too, and if can you separate artists biographies from their work. We both love food and funnily enough some of the same recipes. She asked what I would’ve cooked had we had the date at mine –  I said Jambalaya, turns out she made it herself the other night.

Any awkward moments? Good table manners?

No awkward moments at all. Although for some reason – probably because I’m an idiot – I went for two kisses on the cheek instead of one when she arrived. We don’t do this in Glasgow either so I can only blame sheer panic or attempting to act cool. Despite having nearly knocked her out 12 seconds into the date, I managed to smooth things over with a gin and tonic. And we both laughed so I suppose it broke the ice… or so I’ll continue to tell myself. And yes, she had impeccable table manners. I also managed to pour the wine without soaking her. Always a plus.

Go anywhere after the date?

Yes we went to the St Andrews Brewing Co. and had a Wee Blonde each. Would’ve stayed longer but I had a tutorial at 10am the next day.

What was Forgan’s like?

I love Forgan’s – the food is great and good value – especially when it’s on The Stand. A lovely date definitely improved the atmosphere!

Will you be seeing each other again?

There’s talk of a drink next week – so yes.

Rating out of 10 for the date:

9 – Hannah was beautiful and fun to be with. The waiter kept interrupting her chat so I think we’ll have to try again for that perfect 10.

The Stand would like to thank Forgan’s on Market Street for the delicious meals and wonderful venue. To book a table or, if you are a larger group, one of their beautiful bothies, call 01334 466 973, click here or e-mail [email protected].

Forgan’s have live music every Thursday evening from 9-11pm and student Jesse Steere will be performing on the 20^th February. Remember to check out their special Graduation Menu with 3 courses for £24.95 – book quickly before they’re full!

Image courtesy of Lallie Doyle.