On a date or with a friend, go halfsies

I love going on dates. You get dressed up, butterflies dance in your stomach, and you get to split a meal.

Yes, split a meal.

Maybe this isn’t a common date ritual, but it should be. After all, it only makes sense.
Think of it this way — you never get too stuffed from feeling the need to clear your plate. Also, you get to fork-flirt, when you and your date happen to reach for the same piece of food at the same time and the forks clink.

It’s cute, it’s fun, it saves money, and it’s not nearly as messy or weird as the spaghetti and meatballs scene from Lady and the Tramp.

But not all restaurants are as accommodating with their meal selection. Typically, it’s best to stay away from burger joints and buffets since their meals are not meant to be shared.

Luckily, there are several Bloomington restaurants with delicious options for you.
If you have a craving for breakfast foods, even in the evening, your best bet is Village Deli. They serve breakfast all day and have a number of delicious and healthy omelettes.

But my favorites are the pancakse. If you and your eating partner are light eaters, stick to one pancake and get some small side dishes. Otherwise, get the short stack and attempt to attack the pancake beasts.

One of my favorite meals to split is any kind of Middle Eastern platter because the food isn’t too heavy. My favorite Bloomington restaurant for this is Falafels on Kirkwood. They have a number of different platters and specials you can share among two, or even four. Also, you can order from several different appetizers and salads that will help accompany the entrée.

Feeling like eating something not as healthy? I don’t know about you, but I’m a huge fan of wings, especially boneless wings, and Buffa Louie’s, in my opinion, has the best in town.

Order any number of regular or boneless wings, split an order of fries, and get a side of celery to appear somewhat diet-conscious. This is especially great if you want to watch a game or catch some live bands, as long as your dinner partner isn’t vegetarian.

Another fun date meal is sushi. It might put some people off, but it can be fun to try different kinds of sushi and find out what you like. Domo is a great restaurant to try out sushi if you haven’t done so. Plus there are tons of options you can order together, giving you the most variety possible.

Indian is another cuisine that’s fun to share because of the different melding of flavors. Shanti has great dishes at a reasonable price, and right on Kirkwood too. You can order different tikkas, masalas and curries to split among two, or even among friends.

And if the spices burn your tongue, share a refreshing dessert at the end of the evening.

Happy sharing!