Depending on the phase of my life, it would vary according to relationship and geography. Working in a city as I did lends itself to many after-work dinners at various restaurants. Major metropolitan areas have a wide range of food, usually ethnic options and a variety of American fare. The American restaurants were more expensive, particularly if steak was on the menu. In Baltimore Sotto Sopra and Prime Rib had the best food and the highest prices.
Moving to Ocean City when I retired presented vastly different and reduced options available. There was only one special Italian restaurant, Ristorante Antipasta. The owner chief was part of the charm, and the food was delicious, slightly costly for the area. American food was great at one restaurant only, The Hobbit. The bar was a bit like Cheers, and the menu changed regularly for the main restaurant. The costs for dinner at the beach were high but worth the food and the expansive sunset views.
Living in the desert offers more options than anywhere else I have lived, and at a reasonable cost. There is a wide range of food, including plentiful Mexican, American, and Italian fare. The most expensive meal I have had was at Wally’s Desert Turtle. The average per-person cost is $100.00 without drinks.
The question could be, “What is the best meal you have ever had?” That is what is important, and sometimes it has not much to do with cost.
Life Gets Better 