Culture
Budding romance on a budget
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Struggles of the college student revolve mostly around one object: money. The amount of cash in your wallet dictates where you go, what you do and when you do it. But Valentine’s Day is no time to cut corners. When it comes to showing someone how you feel, money cannot hold you back. Lucky for us, Boston is full of inexpensive and unique activities and restaurants for you and your valentine. Whether you are a casual couple or soul mates, this list will give you plenty of ideas for a memorable evening together.
Planetarium Show at the Museum of Science
What could be more romantic than stargazing? This date shows that you are cre3
ative and smart but also a romantic. If you really want to impress your date, check out the Museum’s website for the monthly sky chart and viewing guide. The Museum is open until 9:00 p.m. on Saturday’s, so you and your date will have time to make a second stop elsewhere after taking in the stars.
By Christie Merino / Gavel Media staff for its organic and delicious not be accepted for payment! pizza. As a bonus, it won’t break the bank to grab a bite Trident Booksellers and play a game or two with and Cafe your date. If you or your date is vegetarian or vegan, then this menu will be a welcome Mr. Bartley’s Burger change from the limited Cottage If your Valentine is really meal selections on campus. not a Valentine and more of If you’re old enough to grab a good friend that you talked a beer come this Valentine’s into spending the evening Day, Trident, located on Newwith you, then enjoying some bury Street, even has a solid messy comfort food together collection of New England in Harvard Square will make beers to go along with your it more than worth his or her Hummus Plate or handmade while. These delectable burg- Tibetan vegetarian dumpers will have your mouths wa- lings. Wandering around tering the second you walk Newbury Street afterwards in but don’t run more than is a great option, but even about $13. Harvard Square is better is wandering around also a great place to explore, the bookstore and pointing so don’t be in a rush to get out your favorite books and back on campus! Make sure reminiscing about the times to bring cash, as your card will you once spent enjoying the
The Flatbread Company @ Sacco’s Bowl Haven
Nothing says casual fun more than pizza and bowling. This date will have you both laughing and will bring out your competitive sides. It’s easier to get to if you have access to a car, as the restaurant/bowling alley is located in Somerville, but it is definitely worth the trek. The Flatbread Company is known
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the GAVEL / February 2013
you both up and keep your wallet happy. Of course, the atmosphere is less-than- romantic, but if that’s what you’re looking for, then this is an ideal restaurant.
Mike’s Pastry
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luxury that is recreational reading.
Punjab Palace Restaurant
Indian food may not be what most people associate with Valentine’s Day, but if your goal is to have great food that you won’t be seeing on campus, this is worth a try. Consistently rated as having the best Indian food in Boston by Zagat Survey, Punjab has a wide array of authentic Indian food for those that know the cuisine well. Located close to BC’s campus on Brighton Avenue, Punjab Palace is a great place
for an old college couple to indulge in some new food. A meal won’t cost you more than $15 here, which is a great value considering this restaurant’s reputation around Boston.
If casual but sweet is more of what you’re looking for, Mike’s Pastry shop in the North End is a great stop on your Valentine’s Day adventure. With some of the best cannolis in Boston, Mike’s is still a bargain without sacrificing any of the taste or
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Pour House
If all you want to do this Valentine’s Day is take your date somewhere that feels like a nonstop party, this place will do the trick. The expansive menu of American food including burgers, steak tips and subs is accompanied by Mexican food such as chimichangas and tostadas. This food will fill
Photo by Mary Yuengert/ Gavel Media staff
Legal Sea FoodsHarborside
Legal Sea Foods has become a successful national franchise for a reason. Sitting down for a full meal here might run a little too high for most budgets, so a great alternative is sitting on Floor 3 for an appetizer and a lovely view of the harbor. Make reservations for dusk so you can woo your date as the sun sets. Photo courtesy of William Heimbuch/Wikimedia Commons
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charm that comes with a small 100 percent homemade bakery. This menu includes delectable cookies, cake by the slice, specialty coffee and biscotti all within a college student’s budget. Again, make sure you have cash as Mike’s does not accept cards.
These ideas leave you feeling confident and prepared for your Valentine’s Day this year. Planning ahead is key when it comes to special occasions, so make sure you do your research before heading out with your date. Girls and guys alike aren’t looking for extravagance. Instead, show your date that you are creative, fun and attentive to their interests and you both will have a night you won’t soon forget!
Photo by Jenna LaConte/ Gavel Media
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