Anniversary on a budget

Our 4th Anniversary is coming up, and while I would love to go all out, 2008/09 has not been as kind to us fiscally. So where would you go for a nice dinner out that wont break the bank? Honestly, I'd like to keep it about $20-$25 a plate at max. We're not really big drinkers (anymore..haha) so alcohol isn't a huge consideration. Good desserts are a plus! He's not a big fan of asian food, and I can't eat most seafood.

Also, keep an eye on Restaurant.com for coupons. Artemesia is almost always on there. And the website is always running specials. Sometimes you can buy a $25 gift cert for $3.

Veranese is definitely one I'm thinking about, and I would love to try Westport General store..but it may be a bit too far.

Studio's Grille and Pub in New Albany, right on main st. (209 E. Main) is also probably a good place for you two!
it has just a bit about everything at a reasonable cost and if the weather is good (we have heaters also) the courtyard is open for lunch or dinner. Hope to see you soon.!

[Robin Garr]

Veranese is definitely one I'm thinking about, and I would love to try Westport General store..but it may be a bit too far.

Varanese is good. Palermo Viejo is really good for eating well on a budget. Westport General Store ditto, and Will will really do it up for you as a forumite. L&N Wine Bar is another good choice.

Not picking on Annemarie, but I think some of the places she mentioned might max out a little high for you, even if individual items fall within your range. I'd be wary of Cafe Metro or even Asiatique unless you've got a LOT of will power enabling you to live with maybe a salad and lower-end entree.

I'm going to have to pipe up in favor of Varanese as well. My girlfriend and I spend Valentine's Day there, and I have absolutely no complaints about the food or service. The service was perfectly attentive, but not overbearing and the food was prepared wonderfully. I highly recommend their artichoke cheese balls for an appetizer.

I could probably dredge up a mild complaint or two about the wine list, especially considering the fact that the white zin was flowing like water (which it practically is, if you add a bit of sugar). However, since you don't really drink much anymore I don't see that being a huge problem.

As for Palermo Viejo, my girlfriend and I are actually going there on Friday before the med school's Cadaver Ball. That's another great choice with very reasonable prices.

Mayan Cafe.

I suggest Le Gallo Rosso. It is small, quaint, romantic, inexpensive and the best kept secret of Louisville. And the Italian food is to die for!

Seviche is a wonderful choice if he is at all adventurous, Varanese especially on Sundays when the menu is 25% off. Equus- nothing is over $20. and it feels special.
Or can you do a special lunch? So very affordable almost everywhere- and if you take a half day at work you have the PM free to... well, you know.

Lol Gary. We have this little 21 mo old running around that demands a lot of our time. He's quite a stinker.
I seriously didn't know about a discount on Sunday...very interesting.

I would also chime in for Palermo Viejo. Unless they've increased their prices, no entree is over $20 and they are all worth every penny.

Varanese especially on Sundays when the menu is 25% off.

I second Varanese. My husband and I just went and were impressed. Gary, I didn't realize Varanese was 25% off on Sundays. Do they take that off of the final bill or are the prices on the menu reflect the 25% off?

I hope I didn't misspeak- I remember a gentleman fron Vananese stating that discount a few months ago.

Their website says they have "Industry Sundays" which means half price apps and draft beer either after 9 or from 4-6. (The times don't seem to agree when you click on the event.)

Megan, Hal and I had dinner at Le Gallo Rosso Saturday night and it was great! There were several specials. The entrees come with a salad, bread and an olive oil for dipping. The entrees were around $13-17 apiece. I don't know what the corkage fee is but they do offer beer. Even with a 20% tip, I still spent less than $50. It was a bargain. If you go, I'd get a reservation. I called at five and took the last table for the evening. CD