I typically try to involve alcohol if at all possible just to take the edge off both parties.
Do something that YOU want to do. That way at least you are getting something out of it even if the date doesn't go great.
I also like it when I others that I know will be at xx venue. This seems to really help provide nice social proof.
Many will suggest going to several different venues in the course of the night. This way it feels like you guys have been together much longer in her head.
I really like Twitchy's suggestion of taking the girl to Dessert instead of dinner. It's shorter and just seems to go smoother. Girls like it too because no one ever suggests just meeting up for dessert. He always plays it off saying he has a meeting earlier in the day but can meet for dessert.
I think a happy hour or a coffee shop where seating can be closer like a couch is great for a first day because there is easy access for Kino rather than being across a table...I dont think the across the table thing works as well. I was at a bar with this girl tonight and when she told me something cool about herself I just high fived her and touched her hair a couple of times. By the time she finished her first drink she was putting her hand on my arm and around my back...when I dropped her off she gave me a sweet kiss because shaking hands just was way below where we were. I would find places where you want to go that have stools where you can sit next to each other and talk...
I've been hearing alot about uptown. Is there a hotel in uptown that I can camp out at, that is classy, and reasonable in price? And just where is uptown?
The Iron Cactus(bar & restaurant) in downtown Dallas is my favorite place. Its got some couches and a private booth for couples. Also has a good view from inside the restaurant or the patio. I've taken several girls there and they all loved it. Most people don't know about it.