MAHANTH, a 28-year-old city official, says he pays a lot of attention to a girl he’s attracted to. “I try hard to be nonchalant, but it’s not always easy,” he confesses. Meanwhile, Vanessa, a 25-year-old hostess, almost blew it by seeming too distracted. Fortunately, these culturally diverse cuties made a fun, creative connection at West Village favorite Havana Alma de Cuba. But do cigars and muchos mojitos mean a second date is on the menu?

He said:

When Vanessa and I first met, I did some belligerent joking around, and she took well to it. If she was nervous, she didn’t show it.

One of our similarities was our diverse backgrounds. Vanessa is Polish, Mohawk and African-American. I’m Indian, but I’ve lived in Saudi Arabia, England, Malaysia, and India in addition to the States. She’s also a creative type: She sings and acts, and I like to write.

I suggested we share food, and she was game. We ordered squid in garlic sauce, mashed plantains with pork, and delicious steak entrees. She was even willing to try a cigar for the first time. I admired her adventurousness.

By the time the photographer arrived, we were both laughing, enjoying the date – and our mojitos. The photo session drew the attention of neighboring tables; we both liked the attention. My only criticism of Vanessa was her wandering eyes watching the window behind me.

After dinner, we had a drink at a nearby bar. As we parted, I got her number and invited her to an upcoming party. Moving forward, I can see us as friends. I got the vibe she feels the same way.

She said:

Upon arrival, I saw Mahanth through the window and was pleased that he was early. We greeted each other with smiles, and he considerately asked if I was OK facing the window. He was laid-back and friendly, which put me at ease. We immediately started talking – the server had to come back many times to see if we were ready to order.

The restaurant was really cozy and unpretentious. I was shocked to discover that Mahanth hadn’t seen my picture beforehand, and it was sweet of him to say that even if he had, he would’ve chosen me. We have similar attitudes about family, work, pets, music and culture.

When the photographer showed up, he told us to look directly at each other for certain shots. Neither of us could keep a straight face. What I liked most about the date was the feeling that we were having fun. Two hours passed before we even realized it.

Later, we went outside and sampled cigars. This was my first cigar, and Mahanth asked several times if I felt OK. After another drink, we called it a night.

Overall, I got what I wanted from the date – a fun night and a new friend. I don’t like rushing things, but I’m sure we’ll hang out again.

He said3 HEARTS

“We were both laughing, enjoying the date.”

She said 3 HEARTS

“Two hours passed before we even realized it.”

Meet-o-meter

4 HEARTS I’ll die if you don’t call

3 HEARTS Definitely maybe, baby!

2 HEARTS We’re better off friends

1 HEART I’d rather kiss my super

NO HEARTS It’s not me, it’s you!