Ed here-- Ever consider, in these situations, to everyone agreeing to having a confirming cell phone call an hour or less before the 'meet' ? This way if it all goes to hell, at least you're not waiting around and you can go to Plan B. Plan B being a nicer restaurant, a dance club, hotel suite for just the two of you, a movie, a theatrical play, etc. With modern cell phones you can improvise a great evening in short order. We have
Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.