This weekend marks one of the most popular days in the world for couples to go out to eat: Valentine's Day.
Each year, Auburn's restaurants are booked for at least a week and on the special holiday those without reservations can expect to wait for up to three hours.
After being seated, it appears the hard part is over, but for some deciding what to order can cause just as many problems as not having reservations.
One issue a waitress at Logan's Roadhouse often witnesses is girls not wanting to look too hungry.
"They'll order just a side salad," said Miranda Brown, junior in exercise science. "And they never eat it all." Britt Morris, a manager of Logan's and senior in wireless engineering, said he didn't mind what his date ordered to eat.
"If they order a salad it doesn't change my perspective on them," Morris said. "It's more about the person to me."
Although what someone orders doesn't affect his thoughts on the person, Morris suggests not ordering messy foods, especially when on a first date.
"Don't order anything you can eat with your hands," Morris said. "Chicken tenders and ribs are especially bad unless you really know the person. I would also avoid wings."
Micah Thomas, senior in graphic design, has been a waiter at Logan's since the summer and suggests splitting a large steak. "It's more romantic," Thomas said. "It can save some money too."
But when trying to save money, Thomas does not recommend giving a date limits or ordering for her.
"I saw one first date where a guy forced his date to order off the cheap menu," Thomas said. "He left a really bad tip and... she didn't look too happy when they left." The biggest problem
Brown noticed is men ordering large amounts of food with their dates and having their card declined.
"I ran a guy's card and it came up insufficient funds," Brown said. "I could tell it was a first date, so it was awkward when he had to ask the girl topay."
Morris suggests keeping it simple when ordering, like filet for the male and salmon or chicken for the lady. He also recommends splitting either an appetizer or dessert to add a bit of romance into the date.
Being romantic may be a goal on Valentine's Day, but don't make it awkward for everyone else in the restaurant.
"Sitting on the same side (of the table) can be okay," Morris said. "But not when elbows are hitting. It doesn't make sense at all."
So girls, don't be scared to order a meal and eat most of it. Guys, make sure to be prepared to pay. Most importantly, be sure to enjoy the date for the conversation and romance, not just the food.
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