I'm looking to get to know people first and foremost and possibly go out for drinks or dinner if it feels right. I'm generally a pretty cautious person and like to take things slowly. Methodical, I guess is the word... :)

I consider myself fairly intelligent, but also am very curious about a lot of things in this world (who built Stonehenge, how the brain works, string theory, etc). I feel that it's our curiosity that defines who we are as people. That being said, while I feel I'm intelligent, I yield to those who I recognize as being moreso. Though I really hate having to do that... LOL

I would think that I'm a pretty humble person, too. Maybe that statement has a tinge of oxymoronishness(?) about it, but it's the truth. While I strive to be the best at whatever I'm doing (cooking, golf, poker, etc.), I get embarrassed easily when my successes get recognition.

A little more about me... I'm the kind of guy who likes to dive into things and learn everything about it. I guess it's my analytical nature, but when I take on a new hobby or interest, I don't just learn the basics. I learn everything I can about it, even some of its history. That probably helps me a lot in the kitchen, where I'm a pretty good cook.

I'm also the kind of guy who takes responsibility for what happens around him, though is sometimes sheepish on doing what it takes to rectify situations (minus, but working on it).

I really like challenges, especially mental challenges. This is why I like golf and poker and other types of games. As far as my other "likes", here's an abbreviated list for you:

Food -- Sushi, Mexican, Chinese, Thai, Indian... spicier the better... grilled preferred (except for the sushi, of course). I really love to cook and like to research new dishes and even "reverse engineer" dishes I've had at restaraunts.
Music -- Wide variety: Classic rock, some metal, some "soft" rock, "classic" alternative. Bands include Led Zeppelin, the Who, the Police, Men at Work (or Colin Hay), The Shins, the soundtrack to Nick and Norah's Infite Playlist (particularly Vampire Weekend and Band of Horses)... many others. I've recently re-discovered this guitarist named Andy McKee who I think is amazing and is tempting me to take up playing...
Movies -- Comedies, sci-fi, action... Favorite recent movies include Balls of Fury, Superbad, Smart People, The Dark Knight. All time favorites include The Dark Knight, Highlander, Rounders, A River Runs Through It, Life of Brian, Serenity, Blazing Saddles.

I suppose that sums me up somewhat. There's a bit more to me than that, but I'm pretty much a "get what you see" kind of guy. I'm also very open and upfront about things, but still tactful. I don't like to play games and I don't like a ton of BS. I can be a flirt, but that doesn't mean I'm not respectful.


So… we can discuss/compare likes, dislikes, favorite things face to face (or screen to screen) if you are interested... I think you've read enough already... :)

Unless two people spend the time to get to know each other beforehand, a first date should really be a time to get comfortable with one another. I generally don't like to plan dates, as that seems to keep the experience from being organic. That being said, conversation over a nice cup of coffee or a few drinks or some good sushi seems to be a good starter.