Ivan on Ethan Ivan What were you hoping for? Someone I could enjoy a meal and good conversation with, and maybe a second date. First impressions? He was on time and waiting at the table. He had a big, beaming face with a nice smile and a chatty mouth. What did you talk about? Living in London, because he is from America. Family, travelling, work and gay dating. Free Britney. Any awkward moments? I knocked over my drink the second it was brought. We were about to go cheers and it slipped out of my hand and spilled across the table towards Ethan. Luckily, he stood up just in time. Good table manners? Yes. Tacos and burgers were eaten so there were messy fingers but that’s OK. Best thing about Ethan? He was very talkative and I was happy to listen. I am normally the chatty one. Would you introduce him to your friends? I would. Describe Ethan in three words Vibrant. Chatty. Optimistic. What do you think he made of you? That I am a nice, friendly guy. Did you go on somewhere? No, it was lashing down so we both walked back to the tube in a rush. If it weren’t for physical distancing, would you have kissed? No. If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be? More food. Marks out of 10? 6.5. Would you meet again? As friends. Ethan on Ivan Ethan What were you hoping for? A new experience. I’d never been on a blind date before. First impressions? He was tall and really sweet. What did you talk about? Cultural differences: both between us – he’s from Galway and I’m from Washington DC – and between the UK, Irish and US LGBTQ+ communities. Any awkward moments? There was a spilled drink within the first 15 minutes. Shit happens – the only thing to do was laugh. Good table manners? He ate his burger with a knife and fork. Would I call it good manners? Yes. Best thing about Ivan? He’s a genuine guy and an open book. Would you introduce him to your friends? Yes, my friends would like him. Describe Ivan in three words Confident, chatty and resolute. What do you think he made of you? I honestly have no idea. Did you go on somewhere? Only to the station – it was pouring. If it weren’t for physical distancing, would you have kissed? He made it clear up front that the first date isn’t for kissing. If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be? My outfit. I stayed at work late, so ran out to buy a shirt for the date, but it was too big, so I had to wear my work shirt. Marks out of 10? 6.5. Would you meet again? Yes, as a catch-up as friends. Ivan and Ethan ate at Hotbox, Spitalfields, London E1. Fancy a blind date? Email blind.date@theguardian.com This article was amended on 20 November 2021. The headings “Ivan on Ethan” and “Ethan on Ivan” were originally the wrong way around