Planning a dinner date is an exciting way to spend quality time with a loved one. However, the cost can vary widely depending on the type of restaurant, the city you’re in, and the experience you’re aiming for. In this post, we’ll break down the average costs of a dinner date for two, providing data to help you plan your next night out.
Factors Influencing Dinner Date Costs
- Restaurant Type: Fast food, casual dining, or fine dining.
- Location: Dining in a major city like New York or Los Angeles costs more than in smaller towns.
- Beverages: Adding wine, cocktails, or other drinks significantly increases the bill.
- Extras: Desserts, appetizers, or gratuity also contribute to the total cost.
Average Costs by Restaurant Type
Restaurant Type |
Average Cost (for Two) |
Description |
|---|---|---|
Fast Food |
$20 – $30 |
Quick meals like burgers or pizza. |
Casual Dining |
$40 – $70 |
Chain restaurants or local eateries. |
Upscale Dining |
$80 – $150 |
Fine dining with table service. |
High-End Fine Dining |
$200+ |
Michelin-starred restaurants. |
Average Costs in Major U.S. Cities
City |
Fast Food |
Casual Dining |
Upscale Dining |
Fine Dining |
|---|---|---|---|---|
New York, NY |
$25 |
$70 |
$150 |
$300+ |
Los Angeles, CA |
$22 |
$65 |
$140 |
$250+ |
Chicago, IL |
$20 |
$60 |
$120 |
$220+ |
Austin, TX |
$18 |
$50 |
$100 |
$180+ |
Philadelphia, PA |
$20 |
$55 |
$110 |
$200+ |
Beverages: A Cost Multiplier
Drink Type |
Average Cost per Drink |
Total for Two Drinks Each |
|---|---|---|
Soft Drinks |
$3 – $5 |
$12 – $20 |
Domestic Beer |
$5 – $7 |
$20 – $28 |
Glass of Wine |
$8 – $15 |
$32 – $60 |
Cocktails |
$10 – $18 |
$40 – $72 |
Tips for a Budget-Friendly Date Night
- Look for Deals: Many restaurants offer early bird specials, happy hours, or prix fixe menus.
- Opt for BYOB: Bring your own wine or beer to save on beverage costs.
- Skip Extras: Sharing an appetizer or dessert can cut costs without sacrificing the experience.
- Choose Off-Peak Days: Dining midweek can be more affordable and less crowded.
- Use Apps: Platforms like OpenTable or Groupon often have discounts.
Sample Scenarios
Scenario |
Estimated Cost |
Breakdown |
|---|---|---|
Fast Food Night |
$25 |
Two meals ($10 each) + drinks ($5 total). |
Casual Italian Dinner |
$60 |
Two entrees ($20 each) + shared appetizer ($10) + drinks ($10). |
Steakhouse Date |
$130 |
Two entrees ($40 each) + appetizer ($15) + drinks ($35). |
Fine Dining Experience |
$250+ |
Prix fixe menu ($100 each) + wine pairing ($50). |
The cost of a dinner date for two can range from a budget-friendly $20 to a luxurious $300+, depending on your preferences. By understanding these variables and planning accordingly, you can create a memorable date night that fits your budget. Whether you’re keeping it casual or indulging in fine dining, the key is to enjoy the experience with your partner. Oh and dont forget tips! (we have a tip calculator in our “smart tools” section)