TikTokers Reveal Dating for Free Meals: Discover the Latest Money-Saving Hack!

Life’s tough these days, and not just in terms of finding a romantic partner. Interestingly, some individuals are turning to first dates as a creative solution to their financial difficulties.

Indeed, there are those who are engaging in dating primarily to enjoy free meals and beverages.

This phenomenon is what Psychology Today refers to as “foodie calls.” This term should not be confused with “booty calls.” A “foodie call” refers to the act of going on a date with someone solely to enjoy a free meal, without any intention of forming a romantic relationship with the person who pays for the meal.

Given the current economic downturn, many people are finding it hard to afford groceries and nutritious meals. What should be a basic need—having healthy food readily available—now feels more like an indulgence.

Navigating the High Cost of Living

From 2020 to 2024, the cost of food in the U.S. increased by 23.6%. Additionally, the overall cost of living has been on the rise as well.

A trend has emerged on TikTok that highlights a budget-friendly tactic of “dating for dinner.” Essentially, some women have been organizing dates frequently as a strategy to save on cooking and buying their own meals.

A woman named Katheryne Slack shared her thoughts with MarketWatch about this strategy. She recounted an instance when she realized she was out of coffee and turned to the dating app Hinge to solve her problem.

In less than an hour, she had arranged a first date that came with a complimentary coffee and breakfast sandwich.

“Right when I met him, I knew there wasn’t a spark. However, I was already there and really needed that coffee,” Slack explained to the publication. “I remained hopeful though, thinking perhaps he might impress me somehow and change my mind.”

The guy decided to unmatch her after their date, but Slack saw it as a win-win situation since she got her free meal.

The concept of dating in exchange for meals, or financial benefits, isn’t exactly new. Many people on TikTok have admitted to using dates as a way to skip meal prepping and grocery shopping, with some even arranging a date each night to ensure free dinners throughout the week.

To be honest, that sounds quite tiring.

Clearly, there’s an underlying issue here. Firstly, it’s alarming that someone would feel so financially pressured that they need to organize over ten first dates just to save money.

Secondly, it indicates that a growing number of people, particularly women, are seeking financial relief through dating.

Examining the ‘Cost’ of Dating for Meals

This is not a completely new revelation. Historically, women often depended on men for financial support, but this is less common today. And with the current state of the economy, nearly everyone is feeling the pinch.

This financial strain has led more men to consider going Dutch on dates, especially if they suspect their generosity might be exploited. Several of my friends have mentioned paying for their part of the date, or even covering the full bill, more frequently than before.

It’s evident that people are becoming more deliberate with both their dating and spending habits. But it raises the question: Are we prioritizing correctly? Are we dating out of desperation and need, or are we genuinely seeking meaningful connections? Are these deliberate dating strategies turning romantic encounters into mere transactions?