When you finally find someone you’d like to treat to a date, it can take everything in you to work up the courage. However, talking to them is only half the battle because your next task is to figure out where to take them. While the traditional option may be dinner, there are many reasons to opt for a happy hour date instead. Here’s why this pre-dinner rendezvous is a winning idea.

3 Reasons to Do Happy Hour for a First Date

1. It’s Casual

Since dinner can be formal, take the pressure off the evening by opting for a more casual hangout. Grabbing drinks during happy hour doesn’t mean you’re stuck at the table until the bill is paid. You can shorten it to a single beverage if you aren’t vibing, and you won’t feel rude for doing so.

2. It’s Cheaper Than Dinner

A full dinner can be a pricey expense for someone you’re just getting acquainted with. On the other hand, if you really like the person, a tight budget shouldn’t restrict you from asking them on a first date. If you only have to pay for a drink or two, you can schedule another rendezvous without guarding your bank account for the rest of the week.

3. It’s Early

Happy hour typically ends before the dinner rush around 6 p.m. If you two are getting along well, continue the date once the tab is paid. Spend the rest of the evening taking a stroll in the park, going to a movie, playing mini-golf, or doing whatever your date has in mind. If the date is a bust, you can head home and amuse your roommates with details from the evening, or enjoy me-time before you have to get ready for the next workday.

If you have a date in mind, take them to happy hour at bills Hawaii in Waikiki. This trendy eatery offers happy hour specials from 3 to 6 p.m. and features a wide range of refreshing libations, such as mai tais and hibiscus margaritas. If you two are feeling hungry, they serve small plates, like calamari and poke, that will pair well with your beverages. View their menu online, or call (808) 922-1500 to ask about their kamaaina discount.