Brewing Good gives 10% of their profits to animal shelters, which means a cup there will be more expensive than Roggenart. But it's for a good cause so I don't mind the price difference. The owners are really devoted to animal welfare and love when the neighborhood dogs stop by.

The entrance is between Gorman road and the Bollman Bridge. It's not a very long walk unless you decide to trek through the wilderness past the end of the path. It's great in the summer because it's usually like 10 degrees cooler than normal due to shade and the river.

Not technically Columbia but Savage Mill has 2 great coffee house options.

Brewing Good Coffee is a small cozy vegan coffee shop right on Foundry street. They just opened more indoor seating at the storefront next door and they roast their own beans so the place smells incredible. They also make some vegan food as well for snacking. Parking can be a hassle if you come midday though.

There is also a small Roggenart at the mill entrance closer to Foundry Street. This used to be a french bakery even before Roggenart moved in (R.I.P. Bonaparte) so there are some nice vibes with the interior seating. Coffee is not as good as Brewing Good imo but the pastries are a nice treat and it's slightly less expensive.

Either of these would be nice for a first date, and if it goes really well you can continue the date by walking around the mill and checking out the neat stores inside.

*There's also a nice walking trail behind the Mill that follows the Patuxant River to keep in mind for -not- first dates. Because taking someone into the woods as a first date is a bit of a red flag. I see a lot of couples taking selfies on the bridge around sunset, and a TON of wedding photographers around there too so you know it has romantic vibes.