Cheap (But Fun!) Date Night Ideas in Philadelphia

Who says a date night needs to cost a fortune to be incredible? Philly is full of great spots for dinner dates on the cheap. From hole-in-the-wall diners to places that recreate fine dining for less, Philadelphia’s food scene offers memorable bites at all budgets. Don’t fret over splitting the bill. Simply pick one of these cheap and fun date night ideas in Philadelphia.

1. Little Nonna’s

1234 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 546-2100

If you want authentic Italian cuisine without a massive bill, Little Nonna’s serves up hefty portions at great prices. You can easily get the bill for two under $50 if you skip the wine. Enjoy a candlelit dinner of pan-seared gnocchi or braised short rib ragu. If you want to go really cheap, consider a dessert date with cannoli and coffee!

2. Reading Terminal Market

51 North 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 922-2317

You know they’re a keeper if they love a food court date! As Philadelphia’s oldest public market, this spot offers a romantic, cultured vibe. It’s a perfect spot to browse while picking up little nibbles along the way. The 75 locally owned vendor stalls here sell confections, baked goods, hot grab-and-go meals, drinks, and more.

3. Curry Leaf

2046 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA
(267) 541-2063

If you want to get the date off on a spicy note, Curry Leaf is a great vegan-friendly restaurant with incredible prices. Fill up on butter chicken, shrimp curry, chana masala, and other Indian favorites served with warm, soft naan. With the appetizers here being just a few bucks each, it’s so easy to get to know each other while splitting a plate of yummy vegetable samosa.

4. Vic Sushi Bar

2035 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA
(267) 541-2063

This is everyone’s favorite spot for cheap sushi in Philly. Vic Sushi Bar is a really great pick if you’re trying to save money by staying in for a cheap date night at home because this spot specializes in takeout. It’s also fun to sit at the sushi bar when dining in. If you’re wondering what to get for far under $20, the three-roll special is so filling!

5. Elixr Coffee Roasters

207 South Sydenham Street, Philadelphia, PA

Wondering where to do the best cheap coffee date in Philly? Elixr Coffee Roasters has a warm, friendly vibe that’s perfect for a casual date. If you’re nervous about getting the first-date jitters from this coffee shop’s famous Colombian roast, opt for the sweet and yummy strawberry oat matcha. If you’re hoping to grab a little something to eat on the date, Elixr’s chocolate croissants are amazing!

6. K’Far Cafe

110 South 19th Street, Philadelphia, PA
(267) 800-7200

Are you looking for something between a coffee date and dinner date? Go for a dessert date that gives you a reason to sit down at the table to talk for a while without the full commitment of a meal. There’s no better spot for that than K’Far Cafe. First, this spot is absolutely beautiful. Second, the dessert menu is out of this world. Some picks to have on your radar when it’s time to order include the pistachio sticky bun, brown butter chocolate cookie, and sour apple turnover. The pastries here go perfectly with the drip coffee, espresso, cappuccino, and mocha lattes. There’s even an orange blossom latte that’s honestly worth the trip on its own!

7. Penrose Diner

2016 Penrose Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 465-1097

If you’re looking for a cheap and fun date night in Philly, it’s time to embrace the diner experience. Diner dining beats fine dining because it offers much bigger portions at much lower prices. When it comes to Philly diners, Penrose takes the cake. Everyone loves the French toast here. Other standouts from the all-day menu include the club, French onion soup, pork chops, omelettes, and deli sandwiches. Part of the experience of dining and Penrose Diner is enjoying the way the servers speak with old-style Philly slang when taking your order.

8. South Philly Barbacoa

1134 South 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 694-3797

This is a favorite spot for cheap eats in Philly! Locals love this place for its dishes made with tender, slow-cooked meats and handmade tortillas. You will truly feel like you’re picking up authentic street tacos from Mexico City when you pop in for a date. The list of toppings here includes onion, cactus, pickled vegetables, and more. You’ll also like that you don’t have to wait around trying to make conversation while your food is being made. The staff here is so quick! However, you may need to stand in line for a bit to order if you come during a busy time.

 

For more recommendations on where to eat and drink in the city, check out our Philadelphia page, here!