Dating on a Budget
By Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles
Low on cash but not on romance? Check out some of L.A.'s best cheap date ideas, from palatably-priced restaurants and budget-friendly bars to other almost-free action. Trust us--it is possible to impress your sweetheart for less.
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Fritto Misto
601 Colorado Ave, Santa Monica, CA
The scene isn't much at this family-friendly Italian joint, but the portions are big, the food is good and the pasta dishes stay around the $10 mark. -
Gingergrass
2396 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Pick up a bottle of vino at adjacent Silver Lake Wine, then enjoy corkage-free dining and classic Vietnamese fare at this chic little diner. -
C & O Trattoria
31 Washington Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA
The raucous patio at this Venice mainstay isn't the only draw--low-priced meals, huge portions, free garlic rolls and honor-policy Chianti keep the crowds (and cheap dates) pouring in. -
Cafe Flore
214 S Robertson Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA
Down the street from the crazed celeb-sighting stretch of Robertson, this quaint and modest cafe turns out fresh French fare (nothing over $20) with attitude-free hospitality. -
JiRaffe Restaurant
501 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA
Every Monday, this Santa Monica French fave goes bistro, with a $24 three-course meal and $7 carafes of wine. -
Alegria on Sunset
3510 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
This colorful and homey strip-mall spot is a favorite among Silver Lake locals looking for tasty Mexi-Cali fare--entree prices don't go above $20. -
Pitfire Pizza Company
108 W Second St, Los Angeles, CA
The parking may cost as much as one of the $9 gourmet pizzas, but this buzzing Downtown spot is worth the trip. -
Bistro K
1000 Fremont Ave, South Pasadena, CA
Astonishingly inexpensive--with free corkage to boot--most of the French-Mexican-Asian fusion entrees hover south of $20.
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Bungalow Club
7174 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Head over after work for happy hour, then make your way into a romantic private bungalow on the back patio. -
Brennan's
4089 Lincoln Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA
Enjoy reasonable drinks 'round the clock, 50-cent pool tables and turtle racing on Thursdays. -
Red Lion Tavern
2366 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Dirndl-clad waitresses and affordable Bavarian beer flights make every day Oktoberfest at this cozy Eastside spot. -
Gabah
4658 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Skip outrageous valet and cover charges found elsewhere. It's all about dancing and single-digit priced drinks at this urban oasis. -
Ciudad
445 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA
Dig into $4 mojitos and cuchifrito plates during the weekday happy hour--many nights also offer free music al fresco.
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Mulholland Drive
Hollywood Hills to Santa Monica Mountains, Los Angeles, CA
Take a drive along this famous hill-hugging road for some truly breathtaking views--the shoulder stops offer perfect photo opps. -
Hollywood Bowl
2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA
In the summer, save the box seats and Patina group catering for high rollers--fork over only $1 for bench spots, and pack your own romantic picnic. -
Getty Center
1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA
Free year-round (except for $7 parking), this modern temple of fine art also offers a gorgeous garden and sweeping vistas of the Pacific and the city. -
MOCA at California Plaza
250 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Impress your date with an artist's touch at this stunning museum brimming with original pieces from Warhol, Lichtenstein and Pollock. Better still: Admission is free all day on Thursdays. -
Pinz Bowling Center
12655 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA
This Studio City favorite is one place where striking out is a good thing. Kick up those saddle shoes and get to know each other over drinks and strikes.
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Angelique Cafe
840 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA
A Parisian-inspired corner cafe in the heart of downtown's fashion district. -
Frank N Hank's
518 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Every hour is happy hour at this Koreatown institution, where a hodgepodge of regulars gather for cheap beer and cocktails. -
Yogotango
1300 N Highland Ave, Hollywood, CA
Located next to an auto shop, this addition to the Hollywood frozen yogurt craze avoids the hubbub of its rivals.
