Broke & Dating in LA

by Christy Williams

5 Date Ideas to do in L.A. now without having to break your piggy bank open.

Let’s face it fellow citizens, it’s hard to find love in Los Angeles. If you’re single and you’ve lived here for longer than a few months, you’ve figured this out already. It’s even harder to woo the man / woman of your dreams, when you do find them, if you can’t take them out for a good time because you’re too worried about spending money. We’ve all been there at one time or another. That’s why I’ve put together a few date itineraries for you that won’t put a giant dent in your pocket change.

1. Coffee + a Concert at LACMA

Every Sunday night at 6 pm LACMA has a free symphonic concert in their beautiful Bing Theater. If Jazz is more your style go on Friday night at 6pm. Start or end the evening by grabbing a delicious mocha or latte at Coffee + Milk or a cocktail at Stark Bar, then head over for a night of sweet musical culture with your hot date. For more info go to: http://www.lacma.org

2. Spin for Sangria on Sunday Funday!

A fun way to get to know somebody is by doing a outdoor activity. That’s why you should grab a couple bicycles and head out to the beach for a late afternoon ride. If you already have bikes, that part is free! If you need to rent them you can get them at Sea Mist Rentals (1619 Ocean Front Walk Santa Monica, CA 90401 – (310) 395-7076) for only $7 per hour. Start at the Santa Monica Pier and bike south towards Venice Beach where you can end your ride at Primotivo Wine Bistro (http:// www.primitivowinebistro.com) and unwind with a refreshing $5 Sangria (on special between 4pm and 6:30 pm every Sunday). When you’re feelin’ good and refreshed, take a walk on the beach before hitting the bike trail back.

3. Dinner and a Movie in Highland Park.

Start by treating your crush to dinner at Follerios. http://www.follieros.com Follieros is one of my favorite secret italian restaurants on the east side. The average entree is between $7 and $12. You can get a large pizza that would feed a small village for between $10-14, and a whole bottle of wine for $15, or a glass for $5. You and your date can feast your eyes out and save a bunch of money while doing it. Make sure you get cash out before you go though, because it’s cash only.

After dinner walk across the street to The Highland Theatres www.highlandtheatres.com, where shows are either $5 (matinee) or $7 (after 6pm).