Dating in the city: Where’s the love?

Here we are in the City of Brotherly
Love, where more often than not, college students are settling for $1.50 pizza slices and reality TV for party-alternative entertainment. Most of us are pressed for money, time and new ideas, allowing this lounging lifestyle to creep its way into our dating worlds.

Now a guy asks a girl on a date which may consist of the gal getting all dolled up just to sit in his bare apartment watching his friends play Madden. Where’s the love? Old beau, new beau or no beau there is no reason to settle for another night “just hanging out” in a city as fabulous as Philadelphia.

When you meet someone whom you cannot imagine bringing back to your shoebox-sized dorm room, hop on the subway (gas saver!) to any one of these five great first date spots.

If you’re tired of awkward first date dinner conversation, head down to Franklin Square off Woodhaven Road in Northeast Philly to the brand new Philly Mini Golf. Instead of windmills, putt up the Art Museum steps, through the LOVE statue and finish up trying to chip one through the crack in the Liberty Bell. For $8 a person this is an affordable way to laugh through the jitters.

After the 18 holes, skip dinner and head right for dessert at the decadent Naked Chocolate Cafe on Walnut Street. This sexy café features an all chocolate menu. Whether you play it safe with the classic Hot Fudge Sundae or take your pick of their four flavors of drinking chocolates (classic, bittersweet, Aztec or spicy) you and your date can take a break from the small talk and just enjoy the cocoa … and each other’s company.

For a completely romantic first rendezvous
make a reservation at Victor Cafe in South Philly on Dickinson Street. A landmark for nearly 70 years, this traditional Italian
restaurant is known for its opera-singing waiters. Even if the date is getting cold let some of the town’s best voices and food warm things up. Be sure to make a reservation so this passionate first date doesn’t have to take a detour to McDonald’s.

Dmitri’s is one of Philadelphia’s gems located on Third and Catherine streets. With unbeatable prices, delicious Greek food and a small intimate setting this is the ideal first date restaurant. Ask for a counter seat for an amazing view of the open kitchen. Sharing platters is encouraged which is good for both your wallet and your date. Be sure to order the hummus with fresh warm pita. There always seems to be a line so wait across the street at the New Wave Cafe.

Finish up any of these date ideas with a movie at the charming Roxy Theater on Samson Street. From the old-fashioned marquee, to the small cozy theaters and lush red curtains this theater is sure to give you the perfect date experience. At $8 a ticket, it is one of the cheaper theaters in the city.

Cristina Perachio can be reached at cristina.perachio@temple.edu.