This Adorable “Date Menu” Idea Feels High-Fun and Low-Stakes (The Best Combo!)

Mia Clancy
Mia Clancy
Mia Clancy is a junior at the University of Vermont, majoring in Political Science with a minor in Spanish. She is a member of Kappa Delta sorority and a writer for UVM’s chapter of Her Campus. Currently, Mia is studying abroad in Morocco — loving the new culture, people, and…read more
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Planning dates can be tough. You want to impress your crush or your partner, but you also don’t want to overdo it. It’s also easy to fall into the habit of visiting the same restaurants and doing the same activities. While dinner and a movie is always a solid option, the best date nights call for a little more creativity.

I’m not a skilled date planner, and I’m definitely known to pull the “you decide” card. That’s why I immediately saved this “date menu” trend when I saw it on TikTok. It’s a simple idea that makes planning dates more fun and a lot less stressful.

What Is the “Date Menu” Date Idea?

The “date menu” trend was created by @elizaandbrooke, a couple known for sharing relationship content on TikTok. From date outfit inspiration to glimpses into their daily routines together, Eliza and Brooke have plenty of fun ideas for couples. Their playlist, “menus for brooke!”, is filled with creative “date menu” videos and is the perfect place to get ideas before creating one of your own.

These “date menus” are homemade lists that turn what could otherwise be an ordinary night into a fun choose-your-adventure moment. Inspired by a typical restaurant-style menu, they include categories like activities, dinner, and drinks, with multiple options for your crush or partner to choose from in each section. That way, you can take some pressure out of planning and avoid the classic refrain: “I don’t know, you pick.”

The best part? You can customize your menu to fit your budget, location, and relationship. Want to plan a cozy night in? Add options like cooking dinner together or watching a movie. Looking for something more adventurous? Include activities like mini golf, a picnic, or a sunset walk. You can even give the night a theme and decorate your menu accordingly. At the end of the night, you’ll not only have enjoyed a great date, but you’ll have a handmade keepsake to remember it by.

How to Try the “Date Menu” Trend for Yourself

The “date menu” trend is the perfect excuse for your next craft night. All you need is some paper, a few pens, and a little creativity. You can make your menu as simple or as extravagant as you want — the thought behind it is what makes it special.

Start by giving your menu a cute title, adding a few doodles or decorations (this is a great chance to break out your sticker collection), and creating sections for activities you and your date can do together. Before you know it, you’ll have an entire night planned.

The best part about this trend is that it doesn’t have to be expensive. Your menu can include simple, budget-friendly activities like going for a walk, visiting a local farmers market, or hiking a nearby trail. You can also make your menu more personal by including things you and your crush already love, like a Trader Joe’s-inspired date night with your favorite snacks, a picnic in the park, or a movie night with homemade treats.

If you find yourself going to the same restaurant downtown every Friday or ending every date night on the couch, this trend is for you. Dates should feel fun and intentional, and that doesn’t mean they need to be expensive or complicated. 

Mia Clancy

Contributor

Mia Clancy is a junior at the University of Vermont, majoring in Political Science with a minor in Spanish. She is a member of Kappa Delta sorority and a writer for UVM’s chapter of Her Campus. Currently, Mia is studying abroad in Morocco — loving the new culture, people, and experiences. Passionate about her studies, she hopes to attend law school or join the Peace Corps after graduation. Mia is passionate about wellness and mindfulness. She enjoys going to the gym, getting her nails done, reading, and listening to music in her free time.

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SchoolUniversity of Vermont '27
MajorPolitical Science, minor in Spanish
FavesLifting weights, music, yoga, the ocean, and tattoos
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