LOS ANGELES -- Angelenos are open-minded when it comes to dating someone from another faith or ethnic group, but not so much when it comes to someone of another political persuasion, according to a Zagat survey released Tuesday.
Zagat's first-ever "Los Angeles Dating (and Dumping) Guide" is based on the experiences of more than 13,000 local diners, bar hounds and date-goers.
"Over the past 30 years, we've been privy to people's opinions on many topics ... but nothing compares to the strong views people have about romance," said Nina Zagat, co-founder of the Zagat Survey, along with her husband, Tim.
In addition to restaurant and bar reviews, the guide includes sections on hot spots for dating and dumping, men's and women's dating preferences, pet peeves and tales of dating woe.
Angelenos generally agreed about first-date traditions, such as making the proposition in person (55 percent) and taking a first date to a restaurant (51 percent). But when it comes to footing the bill, a majority think that whoever extended the invitation should pay (53 percent), regardless of gender.
Angelenos agreed that the top characteristics they look for in a partner are personality (87 percent) and sense of humor (87 percent). They seem open-minded about dating people outside their nationality (90 percent), income bracket (86 percent), religion (80 percent), race (78 percent), age group (78 percent) and education level (70 percent).
But only 67 percent are open to dating outside his or her political party, and nearly 56 percent would not date someone outside the Los Angeles metro area.
Most Angelenos said they had the most success meeting partners through friends and family (27 percent), online (21 percent), at work (14 percent) and through hobbies and activities (12 percent). Less than 2 percent had luck at the gym, in a place of worship or on a blind date.
Angelenos (25 percent) are twice as likely to "'do lunch" as New Yorkers (11 percent), the survey found.
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