Top fast food restaurant where men take women on a first date revealed

More and more Americans are complaining about dating amid inflation, so what’s a cash-strapped singleton to do?

Well, it turns out that in the age of casual dating, most people are fine with casual dining.

Not only does it lighten your financial load, but it also sets a super relaxed tone for getting to know your date without the pressure of a Michelin-starred menu looming over your head.

DatingNews.com surveyed 3,000 American singles, getting them to dish on their favorite budget-friendly dating spots.

The number one answer was Chick-fil-A, with over 16% of daters choosing the chicken joint as their go-to fast food date spot.

The national favorite was also the top choice for New Yorkers.

The second-best option was Dairy Queen — who doesn’t love ice cream? — followed by the Sonic Drive-In and Pizza Hut.

A sizable 66% of women are even okay if a man asks them for a first date at a place like McDonald’s. 

But wait, it gets even more affordable. When it comes to splitting the bill, the majority — 56% — are alright with putting two cards down.

So what’s the secret sauce for making budget-friendly first dates more appealing? Well, 41% of respondents said that as long as the venue has good vibes and the date is committed to having fun, they’re on board. 

Also, about 40% said they would be more willing to accept a date to the drive-thru if the person was simply honest about their budget.

“The old-school method of taking a new date out for dinner has been replaced by casual quick-service dates at coffee shops, bars, and even fast-food joints,” Amber Brooks, Editor-in-Chief at DatingNews.com, said.

“A first date is a risk, and in this economy, modern singles are saving their time and money by opting for a chicken sandwich over a chicken marsala.”

But fast food wasn’t the only acceptable budget-friendly date idea.

About a quarter (26%) of respondents approve of a coffee shop date to stay caffeinated and cozy as you get to know one another — and their coffee order.

Next, we have the classic movie marathon at home, with 24% of folks saying it’s a great way to binge-watch and bond without breaking the bank. 

Then, there’s the food truck stop and stroll around town, which garnered 23% support. 

Finally, there’s the super creative picnic featuring dollar menu delights, with 12% of respondents thinking this is the next best option for casual dating.