Done swiping and ready for some real romantic vibes? According to WIN, these are the Zwolle hotspots to make a good impression. And yes – they are of course also suitable for an ABC date with your steady boyfriend.
Expensive wining at Beautanica
This is the love of your life, but something is keeping you in the friendzone. Ready for a little romance? Then maybe it’s time to take him or her to Beautanica. The big tree in the middle of the restaurant, together with the many lights, makes it nice and cozy. However, the highlight of the evening is of course the wine wall full of white, bubbles and red. And yes, it says from which region the grapes come, and what you can compare the taste to. I like to make a good impression when I pour a Spanish verdejo for my date.
Of course you can have a coke here, but as a wine lover I would find it a big bummer with such a tap in the corner of my left eye.
Downside: the wine is delicious, but on the elitist expensive side. You can operate the tap yourself and pay contactless. And hey, you can always stuff yourself with pluck bread. Choose from chorizo and cheesy onion butter or vegan bacon with mozzarella: that’s more than worth your money.
Cuddling at Cat Café Skatjes
If you both love cats, this is an ideal place to date. Is there not much conversation yet between you and your potential lover? Then start nice and simple: ‘Are you a dog or cat person?’ Or even worse: are you allergic? You will find out right away in this place. Is he already sneezing at the first cup of coffee? Dump that man.
And the hairs in your Pink latte or Katpaccio salad are not that bad, and the price is not bad either. Although WIN thinks a salad called Huppuss is a bit far-fetched. Money to spare? Then take a look in the gift shop attached to it. We don’t like stingy people, hint hint.
Secret rooms at the Dublin House
The Dublin House, where you make your way to a sitting or standing spot together, for a game of rugby on the big screen. It is so busy that you have to stand very close to each other. Which immediately makes it difficult to have a good conversation.
When the game is over and you are ready for a good chat, you shuffle towards the red telephone box. Ask one of the employees for the secret code and you end up in a corridor that leads you to the mysterious cocktail bar. There is an intimate atmosphere, the music is on low volume and you can nestle between the cushions. You might still find out if there is a bit of depth in that fling of yours.
Nice prices at Bennies in De Basis
We can beat around the bush, but let’s be honest: the eternal student doesn’t have much money. Not stingy, but broke. You’re willing to pay, but not the main price. Then choose Bennies. On Tuesdays you’ll find the daily special for only ten euros, and it varies from week to week. Gnocchi, steak and smoked aubergine: it’s all on the menu here.
Not only the prices, but also the atmosphere is tranquilo. Especially on Wednesdays there is an attractive theme. In other words: pizza night. In winter time it’s also a nice place to sit during the day: no dark corners. Convenient, if you want to make sure that the person in front of you matches the Bumble profile that you have been eyeing with relish for the past few weeks. Crackling chemistry? You can always seek privacy in the accompanying hostel.
Do a little dance at BONABO Social Club
If you hope this evening lasts a very long time, you should head to this club, complete with dark corners, where the chance of a hot night is highest.
Here you start with a drink, then you order something to eat and finally you go for the cocktail and a dance. The lights are dimmed, and you sit in the back corner. On the couch, where no one disturbs you, but you can keep an eye on the kitchen. There is an extensive dinner menu. From ceviche to shrimp curry, but also Dutch croquette balls and avocado fries. And it doesn’t have to be expensive.
Check the Social Deal app in advance, because Bonabo regularly collaborates with the app. Two dishes and a drink for 15.95 euros: which is even a fair price if the date ends up being a complete disaster. At the end of the evening, the chairs are pushed aside and the dance floor is open. You can immediately check how flexible your date is, and who knows – a little frenching on the first date is totally fine. With consent, of course.
text: Michelle van der Molen
photos: Jasper van Overbeek
