SAIYAM S.: 24 / graduate student
His interests: Exploring new places
What makes him a catch: His sense of humor and caring nature
7:30 P.M. MELA, SOUTH END
Passing Go
Sam My mom reads the column and encouraged me to sign up.
Saiyam I was curious to try something outside of the typical dating apps.
Sam I got ready like I would for any nice dinner. I treated it as a fun little adventure and a good story, regardless of how it turned out.
Saiyam I didn’t overthink it, I just approached it with an open mind.
Sam I saw a guy walk in just before me and I had a hunch he might be the one, and he was! He was well dressed, honestly one of the better-dressed guys I’ve met on a date. He came across as quiet and kind right off the bat.
Saiyam She had a calm and friendly presence. She was dressed in a casual yet put-together way and had a warm smile, which made the initial few minutes easy and comfortable.
Fair Play
Sam We talked about our hobbies, backgrounds, and how we each ended up in Boston. I learned he’s vegetarian and has similar food preferences to mine. We discovered we both enjoy board games and like living in the city. There was a bit of a cultural barrier, though, which made deeper conversations harder to navigate.
Saiyam I learned she works as a mental health counselor and is super passionate about it. We talked about travel stories, our taste in beat, quirky family moments, and how we like to spend weekends.
Sam We both enjoy board games, thrillers, and living in the city. Once we tried to go deeper into those interests, we realized our experiences with them were very different, so there wasn’t much to build on conversationally.
Saiyam I felt pretty comfortable throughout the evening and grew more relaxed as we talked. The conversation flowed easily and we found common ground quickly.
Sam We shared a few dishes. The standout was the samosa chaat, which was honestly one of the best things I’ve ever eaten. The food, service, and atmosphere were all amazing.
Saiyam We ordered mango mimosas, and tofu saag for the main vegetable dish. The food was solid overall.
Board Walk
Sam After dinner, we went out for ice cream in my neighborhood. I figured, Why not? The date had been pleasant, and I was open to extending it a bit.
Saiyam After grabbing ice cream, [we parted ways] near her place. We said goodbye with a side hug, exchanged numbers, and mentioned planning a board game night sometime.
Sam After ice cream, I walked him to the bus stop so he could head home. He was very polite, paid for everything, carried my leftovers, and held doors open. A true gentleman.
Saiyam I was totally comfortable with her, but it felt like she wasn’t ready for anything more than that, which I respected.
Second Date?
Sam We did exchange numbers, so never say never, but realistically, I don’t see it turning into anything romantic.
Saiyam I’d be open to it. While the spark wasn’t immediate, I think there’s potential to explore that more.
Grading the Date
Sam / B+
Saiyam / A-
Go on a blind date. We’ll pick up the tab. Fill out an application at bostonglobe.com/cupid.
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