They know what they’re talking about.
First Dates Ireland has made already worked its way into the hearts of Irish audiences and we’re becoming increasingly familiar with two new faces from the restaurant, the very suave Croatian maître d’, Mateo Sania, and his effortlessly charming barman, Ethan Miles.
Having worked in the industry for 13 years, playing an important role in various Michelin star restaurants, Mateo is the perfect fit to help daters on their search for love while it appears that his trusted barman Ethan has seen more of the world than is humanly possible!
It’s safe to say then that both men have the perfect mix of skill, experience, charm and wit to help Irish daters find love on the new show.
JOE caught up with the guys to get their best advice and tips about dating.
JOE: What did you think of the people that appeared on the show?
Mateo: I love how the people were spontaneous and just followed their nature. That’s the best thing, you didn’t know what was going to happen but that’s Ireland for you, isn’t it? I’ve lived in a few different countries but Ireland is very different and special.
The way people react, laugh, flirt, it’s something that’s unique to Ireland. I can’t say too much but there are some serious laughs throughout.
JOE: Ethan, you’re the first person that sees these new couples chat to each other at the bar. What’s the key ingredient that makes people click as opposed to those that don’t?
Ethan: How you approach the date is key. Have the right attitude and just be free about it. Forget all the crap that might be in your mind and just see where it goes. You’re already here and hoping to meet somebody so just enjoy it. Deciding to actually go on a date is half the work so just relax, enjoy and have fun.
When people have the right attitude and just really go for it, that’s what makes things special. They have nothing to lose and I really like to see that. Every now and then I’d glance over at them from behind the bar and I’d get a kick out of seeing two people that are really happy in each other’s company.
JOE: Having been there for every date lads, what’s the best bit of advice that you could give?
Mateo: It’s been said so many times before but it’s true, just to be yourself. What’s the point in pretending? Don’t think too much about things and if you actually end up in a relationship after the first date then remember this. To make a relationship work, you need to bite your tongue at least 5 times a day!
Ethan: Oh yeah, also make sure that you get lots of space. Don’t expect too much from the other person and keep things spontaneous.
Also, if you’re going out on date bring them to a nice place with a nice barman and maître d!
First Dates Ireland airs on RTÉ2 on Thursday at 9.30pm. Tune in to see if our daters find love or will they be dashing for the door.
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ podcast – listen to the latest episode now!
