Okay fellas... humour me!
If you went on a first date, that you already kinda agreed to pay for, like you said "it's my treat" and she ordered the most expensive things, and the bill was getting a little out of budget... what would you do?
Haha, I can see this situation before my very eye's.
Ok, let's begin assuming that the situation is set somewhere fancy, and the prices range from expensive, through to a week's wage. Good comes in tiny portions, and is heavily faffed about.
Why would anyone take a first date to such a place, especially if it's not representative of who you are.
Next scenario, a more mainstream dining experience. However, there are several disproportionately expensive items on the menu. Perhaps beyond what has been budgeted for.
Again, why be in such a place in a first date. But, if they go ahead and order something beyond your means or good will, you need to discuss it immediately. Else, the date is doomed from hereon in. Likewise, by now, she probably is no the woman you want.
In my opinion, diner dates are a recipe for disaster, pun intended. An antiquated ideology. Initial dates should be informal and fun, free from distractions, undue decisions, anxieties, and cost. But, if you are well bent upon a dinner date, do your research, budget well, pre-emptive decisions using recommendations or offering different experiences. *a gamble in itself.
We could further debate why a guy is with a lady of such expensive taste, assuming he is not necessarily of her expected means. Choose who you date, wisely.
There is the issue of portraying false images, living beyond your means. Or goading false hopes.
Equality.
Yet, should I ever find myself on a date, in a restaurant of discernable value, and my partner insists upon the all-out experience. I'm likely to leave after the first course, having paid for my part of the evening.
Immediately, I can think a several women known to me, who play the game of dining for free. Different gentlemen, least twice a week. They've tried every dish in every restaurant. Some of these ladies are mere thrill seekers, others it's for the attention, whilst a few are what I would describe as men haters, being that her only interest in him, is his wallet.
As a final note. Many of the guys within this group might agree with me, it's becoming a growing consensus amongst men. We are tired of the expectations of certain groups of women, who will expect lavish gestures, expensive dates, and for the man to pay. Because within the same breath, these women will claim to be the strong independent types. Mocking years of struggles for equality. Guys are done with that!
Just keep it simple and fun.
