How to Plan a Cheap and Delicious Date Night

Going out for a romantic dinner doesn’t have to mean overspending. With a few smart choices, you can plan a memorable date night that’s affordable, enjoyable, and full of flavor. Whether it’s your first night out together or a much-needed break from your weekly routine, these budget-friendly tips will help you create a date night to remember—without the high price tag.

1. Choose the right day of the week
   Weeknights—especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays—are often when restaurants offer the best deals. From prix fixe menus to happy hour pricing, you’ll likely find lighter crowds and lower costs.

Many popular chains offer value-oriented promotions on slower nights. For example:

• Buffalo Wild Wings has discounted wing nights on Tuesdays and Thursdays

• Olive Garden often runs weekday specials or “buy one, take one” pasta deals

• Chili’s offers a 3-for-Me deal with an appetizer, entrée, and drink starting at a fixed price

2. Look for BYOB restaurants or drink specials
   Beverage costs can add up quickly. Search for local restaurants that offer BYOB (bring your own bottle) options or check for happy hour pricing on drinks and small plates. Apps like Yelp and OpenTable let you filter by features like “BYOB” or “happy hour.”
3. Pick prix fixe or shared plate options
   A prix fixe menu can offer a complete meal (starter, entrée, dessert) at a lower bundled price. These are often featured at bistros, steakhouses, or romantic Italian restaurants on select nights. Alternatively, sharing small plates or a large entrée between two people can be both intimate and economical.
4. Dine during happy hour or late evening
   Early evening happy hours often feature reduced prices on appetizers and drinks—perfect for a light dinner with ambiance. Some places even offer a second happy hour for late-night diners.

Check restaurants like:

• The Cheesecake Factory for late-night small plate deals

• Chili’s for all-day happy hour drinks in certain locations

5. Plan an activity-based date around food
   Instead of booking a full sit-down meal, try a more creative approach like:

• Grabbing snacks and heading to a park or beach for a picnic

• Sampling a few small bites from food trucks or a local market

• Attending a free or low-cost cooking class together

6. Use loyalty programs and restaurant apps
   Sign up for rewards programs like MyPanera, Chipotle Rewards, or Taco Bell Rewards in advance. Many offer free menu items, birthday rewards, or app-exclusive pricing that can help reduce your total.
7. Stick to one course and skip dessert at the table
   If you’re watching your budget, order one main course and skip in-house desserts. Instead, grab ice cream or pastries from a nearby bakery, café, or dessert shop after your meal for a cheaper—and often better—final course.
8. Check menus online before you go
   Browsing menus on Yelp, TripAdvisor, or restaurant websites can help you identify affordable options in advance. Some places even post special offers or discounts that you can claim on arrival.

Conclusion
Date night doesn’t require fine dining or a four-figure wine list. With a few thoughtful decisions—like choosing the right time to dine, skipping overpriced add-ons, or taking advantage of midweek specials—you can enjoy a delicious evening out without overspending. Romance and affordability can go hand in hand.