There were plenty of laughs when Josh, a 33-year-old comedian, and Brianne, a 30-year-old publicity associate, met up for dinner at new SoHo hot spot Beba. Over their Mediterranean dinner, they cracked jokes and bonded over favorite comedians. They even warded off a couple of hecklers bothered by our photographer’s flashes. So, did Josh really bomb this date, or is Brianne hoping for an encore?
He said:
I was a little nervous walking into the restaurant. When Brianne walked in, I thought she looked very cute. She also seemed upbeat and easygoing, so I had a feeling we’d get along. We covered a lot of ground, we even realized that we travel in similar circles: One of my favorite improv teachers directed a sketch group she was in.
When the photographer showed up, the girls at the table next to us complained about the flashes. Brianne dissed them loudly enough for them to hear. I generally try to be diplomatic, but I loved that Brianne stood up for us.
Overall, I thought Brianne was very down to earth. At the end of the dinner we exchanged numbers. I’d really like to spend more time with her and see where it goes.
She said:
My first impression of Josh was that he was very handsome and friendly. I could tell he was laid-back, so I knew there would be no first-date awkwardness.
Josh was very open about his life — I learned about his hippie hometown of Oberlin, Ohio, and that he’s a jack-of-all-trades. He’s worked as a comedian, carpenter and a professional organizer.
Comedy-wise, we have a lot in common, too. We talked quite a bit about our mutual favorite: Louis C.K.
Dinner lasted 2 1/2 hours, with no lulls in the conversation. When we finished, Josh walked me to the train and we made plans to see each other again. In fact, he’s going to help me organize my apartment, and I’m going to cook!
Josh is funny, cute and smart. I’d like to see more of him.