If you’ve been hitting up the same date spots for awhile now, you might be finding yourself in need of a change. After a bit of time, the dates start to blend into one another if the venue doesn’t change up.

As we head into the new year, here’s how to refresh your tried and tested date spots, with this guide to some of the best date spots in Sydney.

So here’s a list of foolproof first date spots. Think of it as your ultimate dating cheat sheet for 2024.

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Bar Copains

It’s a romantic catch-22: you want atmosphere, but you also need to be able to hear them over the music and other guests. Thankfully there’s always a buzzy euphonic din at Bar Copains, whether you’re going for a post-work wine or a weekend meal. Owners Nathan Sasi and Morgan McGlone’s wonderful snacky menu is also great for sharing – a good way to order on a date.

Bella Brutta

There’s something magical about Bella Brutta’s pies: you never feel that heaviness that makes you want to go into a pizza coma, so your conversational skills won’t lag behind your stomach. And if whomever you’re on a date with has even a passing interest in pizza, then picking Bella Brutta will make you a champion in their eyes.

Babas Place

If you pick a cool place for your date, you will seem cool. You might squander that coolness as soon as you open your mouth, but picking the right place at least sets you up for success. Marrickville’s Babas Place’s menu, decor and atmosphere pays homage to the tapestry of cultures in Western Sydney. It’s cool, the food is delicious and it’s fun. Really the first date holy trinity. More good news is that no matter how the date goes , you’ll have gone to a restaurant which, if you haven’t been already, you really need to try. That’s a win-win.

Busta

Pasta and wine: an iconic pairing for dates. It worked for the Lady and the Tramp didn’t it? Busta in Manly is a vibe and nails everything: tight cocktails, warm service, stupendous pasta. It’s a great way to have dinner on a date without it being a dinner date.

Bar Planet

Overthinking is a common pitfall when picking a first date location. What if they’ve been on a date here before? What if the staff recognise me from my last first date? What if other people can tell I’m on a date? They probably have, they probably do, and they probably can. Sorry. And it’s no big deal! Since the crew behind classics such as Cantina Ok! and Tio’s first opened Bar Planet, it’s been Newtown’s first-date capital. So yes, if you ask someone to come here, odds are they’ve already been on a date here. But they’re there for you this time – not a sensational Martini (probably). Don’t worry about it, enjoy one of Newtown’s best bars, and have a nice time – it’s a classic for a reason.