| Foodie Calls: 40% of people have gone on a date just for free food |
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Would you go on a date just to get a free meal out of it? If so, you’re not alone. According to a survey of over 1,500 American adults by financial services company J.G. Wentworth, 39.9% of those who responded said they have done just that. The survey found 27.5% haven’t done it but would consider it, while only 32.6% have never even considered the idea. That’s one of multiple findings about the mixture of dating and money, which discovered the average amount spent on a first date is $93, and people expect their dating partner to spend an average of $92 on that first meeting. But if you’re going to spend much more than that, people get nervous. When asked if they’d still be happy to go on a date that would cost $100 or more, the survey found 13.4% said they definitely would, but 43.9% said they would hesitate and 39.3% said they would probably skip the date. There is some question where all that money is going, because the survey found the top three first date activities were getting a drink at a bar (37.5%), enjoying a board game night (35.5%) and taking a walk in the park (8.2%). Going on a date solely for a free meal—often called a “foodie call”—is surprisingly common. While it solves a short-term need for a good dinner, it can lead to awkward moments, wasted time for both parties, and ethical gray areas. Is it tacky to go on a date just for a free meal? |
