There are lots of times when you go and meet someone (ok, for me more than most) and you KNOW they're not the type of person you would date. I tend to err more on the side of caution when meeting people, but even I can spot someone that doesn't - er - float my boat.
With that being said, I think I had a pretty good first meeting. I hesitate to call it a date because it was more of a meet and greet with food. I think that I made a good impression and he was nice.
Should eating in front of people be pretty? It never is. You can't eat a sandwich (grilled or otherwise) without mayo or the tomato or something slipping and getting your fingers all messy. I'm not a tiny, petite, tippy-tippy girl. I eat, I drink, I -- er -- eat. We had a lively conversation. I think that's the best turnout.
He asked what my plans were for my weekend at the end (and he knows when my weekend is) and if he could call me. I told him it would be great and that I had fun AND I got a text on the way home.
I'm cautiously optimistic.
(nerd)
I realize that's more of a State Fair thing, but still, it could be a good indicator.