Savannah Pagnozzi, a 29-year-old influencer and comedian based in Manhattan, has become the subject of widespread online discussion after she shared her decision to cancel a first date because of the restaurant her match chose.
Pagnozzi, who moved to New York City in November, stated in an Instagram post that she expects potential partners to select a dining establishment with white tablecloths, categorizing it as a "three-dollar-signs" venue where entrees typically range from $31 to $60. She believes the restaurant choice reflects deeper compatibility.
"The restaurant you pick says a lot about you and I take my restaurant game very seriously. So if we’re not compatible on the restaurant you choose, we’re not going to be compatible on a lot of other things," Pagnozzi explained in the video, which garnered over 230,000 views.
She described the restaurant in question as a casual spot on the Lower East Side, comparable to chains like The Smith, where she felt uncomfortable dressing up. "Just very chill, like I could show up in jeans, and I don’t want to be showing up to a date like that," she said.
Pagnozzi, who is seeking a husband, matched with the man, a 38-year-old finance professional, on Luxy, a dating app for affluent singles. She indicated that the restaurant selection was the final deciding factor after other aspects of their communication and planning were not aligned with her expectations.
The influencer's stance has drawn both criticism and support online, with many commenters deeming her expectations unrealistic. However, Pagnozzi stated that the backlash has led to an increase in potential suitors reaching out. "I’ve been getting a bunch of DMs from guys being like, ‘I would love to take you out,’ and they choose an amazing spot," she told The Post. She has accepted offers for dates at high-end Manhattan restaurants such as Avra, Beefbar, and Mamo.