Just how simple of a first date are you willing to accept?
The guys I go for can't even afford McDonald's, so I skip the date and take them straight to bed. :-)
First dates don't have to be over the top expensive ...
But no taco bell .
Adults shouldn't take other adults to fast food places.
Somewhere in the middle is fine.
All. Restaurants aren't that great for first dates, too many potential interruptions to good conversation. Better a drink, walk in a park or vibrant city neighbourhood, easy and casual.
Beffers idea is good too.
I work in the restaurant industry. I find it bad for some people on a first date. If you're nervous, you find it hard to eat. Where you go depends on the type of date. Fast food and fast casual generally a no go. At least casual. Fine dining can be way over the top for some.
Honestly? Take me to a bookstore. That's my ideal first date. We can browse together.
If you're going to take me out to dinner for the first date, a fancy restaurant would simply be too much, but fast food would be too casual. So, we'll negotiate who pays beforehand, and then go someplace affordable but still in between those extremes.
Restaurants are fine for a first date if you can get a nice quiet table. I don't count fast food places as restaurants even if they include the word "restaurant" in the title . Pub lunches are also good if again a secluded table can be found .
I prefer just going for drinks on a patio or at a chill bar or lounge, maybe with a few shared apps or tapas if things are going well. It's more relaxed, easier to talk, and less of a time commitment if you need/want to leave early.