10 questions that actually spark conversation on the first date

First dates can feel like a weird combo of job interview, improv class, and awkward dinner with a stranger who might one day see you naked. No pressure! But you don’t need a perfectly curated questionnaire to impress someone. Just a few good questions, a sprinkle of curiosity, and a willingness to laugh at bad menu choices. Whether you’re grabbing a drink, walking through a night market, or having a cheeky wine on someone’s couch, here are 10 playful, thoughtful, non-boring questions to keep the convo flowing.

1. “What’s your go-to comfort TV show?”

This tells you a lot about a person. Are they a Brooklyn Nine-Nine type? A Gossip Girl loyalist? Or do they rewatch David Attenborough because “the animals calm them down”? It's personality stuff, but with popcorn.

2. “What’s something really small that makes you ridiculously happy?”

A perfectly made coffee. Rain on a tin roof. A fresh set of bedsheets. This is wholesome flirtation at its finest and it helps you notice how someone moves through the world.

3. “What’s the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?”

You might get a travel story, a dramatic haircut, or a “So this one time I grabbed a stray cat from the supermarket parking lot and adopted it” tale. Either way, it opens the door for fun, real-life storytelling.

4. “What’s something you wish more people asked you about?”

This flips the script and gives them a chance to shine on their own terms, which is great for building real connection.

5. “Are you a savoury snack person or a sweet treat person?”

Fun, flirty, and easily escalated into a heated debate about the superiority of hot chips over chocolate. Bonus points if it leads to a dessert run.

6. “Who would play you in a movie about your life?”

Silly, revealing, and slightly ego-tickling. If they say Ryan Gosling or Zendaya, just know: Confidence is hot.

7. “What’s your toxic trait, but like, in a fun way?”

“I always think I can carry all the groceries in one trip.” “I start new shows before finishing old ones.” This is a great way to swap lovable quirks without getting too deep.

8. “What’s your personal definition of a great weekend?”

Are they a “sleep till noon and brunch hard” person or more of a “sunrise hike then homemade pasta” vibe? This one gives you subtle intel on compatibility without the pressure.

9. “What kind of TikTok or Instagram content do you secretly love?”

Witchy tarot girlies? DIY dads? Dogs in outfits? Find their niche and you’ll unlock a whole world of weird and wonderful things they’re into.

10. “What made you want to match and chat?”

Flirty, meta, and a little cheeky. It’s a fun way to bring the conversation back to the moment and feel out the vibe.

You don’t need to rattle off these questions like a game show host. Let the convo breathe. Be present. Laugh when something awkward happens (because it will). And remember, first dates aren’t auditions. They’re just a chance to see if you like someone enough to kiss them later – or at least text them back.