This peaceful oasis hits its fairytale peak in spring, for the Sakura Matsuri festival, during which more than 70 trees blossom along the Cherry Esplanade. But at any time of year you'll find some real beauty spots, from the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden to the romantic Rose Garden.
Photograph: Ann Sullivan
Why they’re single:
Natalie: She’s newish to New York and just getting the hang of the dating scene.
Matt: He has just recently been trying to focus on himself.
Ideal date:
Natalie: Drinks at an outside bar
Matt: Walking around a park or museum
THE DATE
First impression
Natalie: “I got there first, and we met right by the entryway of the restaurant. My impression was that he was excited. I thought he was handsome, and he seemed kind.”
Matt: “I wasn’t head over heels about her right away, but as we got to talking, I think we hit it off. It was a little awkward at first, but it got better as the night went on.”
Chemistry
Natalie: “He kissed me on the cheek when we first met, and I just said, ‘Thank you,’ which was mortifying. We didn’t have a lot in common: He’s into sports, and I’m really into travel.”
Matt: “There was no romantic chemistry, but we were bonding over the atmosphere and the food. We were both really down to eat and try everything.”
Awkward Moment
Natalie: “He talked about his ex for a good 10 minutes. At one point, he called her his girlfriend, which kind of threw me. He talked a lot about a trip they went on together.”
Matt: “There were a few times when the conversation died and both of us didn’t really know where it was going. There were definitely a few awkward pauses during dinner.”
Afterward
Natalie: “Toward the end of the meal, he started choking on a piece of duck. That’s when I found out he was actually a lifeguard at my favorite water park growing up.”
Matt: “We exchanged numbers. She walked me to my station, and then she walked home. There was an awkward kiss on the cheek, and we agreed on a second date.”
Verdict
Michael: ♥♥♥ “It was cool. I wish we had more in common, but I enjoyed the evening. We might see each other again, but I’m a little lukewarm about it.”
Matt: ♥♥♥ “It was really good—a unique experience. I’m interested to see where it goes and how we get along through texting. I would see her again.”
Our daters went to Junoon (27 W 24th St, Flatiron District)
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