Cheap dates. There's nothing that pulls on the strings of a romantic heart like those two words. Imagine sharing an experience with someone, and as you learn more about them you begin to grow closer. Then at the end of the night as you grab the check, the bill comes out to be less than $10. Beautiful. Don't worry if you've struggled with thinking of the perfect cheap date idea, as the Inland Northwest has plenty of options.
Taco Tuesdays
$1 street tacos, $3 Mexican beers
Located in the heart of downtown Spokane's east end with an open patio and a huge bar, Borracho is one of the liveliest places you can go, whether you're looking for a filling Mexican dinner or a drink with friends. On Tuesdays, Borracho offers $1 street tacos (with several meat and vegetarian options) and a healthy variety of $3 Mexican beers (served in bottles). The tacos are spicy and the atmosphere is spirited every week — especially on Tuesdays — and this hoppin' spot offers plenty of seating both inside and outside. After some tacos and drinks, consider walking around the downtown area and Riverfront Park to continue the date, whether it's through people-watching or sitting by the Spokane River. Also, the AMC Theater in River Park Square sells movie tickets for $5 each on Tuesday nights if you don't want the night of good deals to end just yet. Borracho Tacos and Tequileria, 211 N. Division, borrachospokane.com
$10 Pizza Tuesdays
Open 11 am-10 pm; available to-go until 5 pm
Every Tuesday this summer, Republic Pi's collection of unorthodox pizzas is on sale for $10, for dine-in all day, and to-go until 5 pm. No pizza is excluded from this bargain, including local favorites like the soft-cooked egg topped #37 (known as the Kiernan at Republic's sister location, the Flying Goat) and the Dalton, a pizza topped with pulled pork and a pile of coleslaw. There's no need to fret about finding a place to eat, even if the deal only applies to take-out pizzas, as the beautiful Manito Park is only a few minutes away. A picnic in the park can be made more refreshing with the veggie-heavy Rockwood and a walk in the gardens can be enjoyed with the onion and bacon creation called the Bluff. Republic Pi, 611 E. 30th Ave., republicpi.com
Coffee & Doughnuts
$5-$7 doughnuts, $2-$3 coffee
In a new building on the west end of Kendall Yards, just off the Centennial Trail, a hip and cozy mini-doughnut shop provides imaginative doughnuts that can transport eaters to a happier time. Edible glitter, maple syrup, lemon slices, powdered sugar, strawberry jam and mini marshmallows are just some of the toppings seen gracing the handmade doughnuts produced by Hello Sugar. The shop also shares a space with Indaba Coffee, which provides a special roast designed to pair with Hello Sugar's donuts. Both purveyors are also located right across the street from Olmsted Brothers Green park. A perfect cheap date could be grabbing some doughnuts (especially the strawberry lemonade doughnut, a seasonal summer flavor) and a coffee from Hello Sugar and exploring the Centennial Trail. Overall, Hello Sugar is a lighthearted option for lovers on a budget to satisfy their sweet tooth and share some treats with a special someone. Hello Sugar, 419 N. Nettleton St., hellosugarspokane.com ♦
CORRECTION: Republic Pi's $10 Tuesday pizza special is available all day (11 am-10 pm), and for to-go orders until 5 pm. A previous online version of this story, along with the printed edition of this issue, incorrectly stated this special was only available for to-go orders.
