User Lists in Dallas, TX Metro

While we may not be able to improve your balance sheet, we can help hold your bottom line. Dating doesn't have to bust the bank, although your honey may become distant if the first dinner date is a fast-food drive-thru. Whether you're an outdoors or indoors type, cultural or sporty, here are a few ideas to help you plan the perfect cheap date.

Low-key consumption is the 2009 trend. The bar business saw a flurry of pub openings--mostly in the suburbs, where foreclosures must be driving homeowners to drink. The City remained fairly quiet on the opening front. But since shopping, dining and drinking remain quasi sports in Dallas there's no sign that establishments will go empty though bar tabs may shrink and happy hour specials may prove the biggest draws. Now, in no particular order, find the 10 best bars and clubs in Dallas this year. (Photo courtesy of Bandera Bar)

In a time when consumers are pinching their pennies, restaurants that manage to thrive during this recession are true survivors. People don't have to dine out unless there's a very compelling draw to lure them there. These restaurants lived up to their buzz and better yet, sustained it. Now, in no particular order, find the 10 best restaurants in Dallas this year. (Photo courtesy of Charlie Palmer at The Joule)

So you've been assigned to bring one dish to the potluck dinner, but admittedly, you're no Barefoot Contessa. Rather than slaving away for hours in the kitchen, you're better off hitting these gourmet grocers and restaurants for semi-homemade helpings that the group will love. Don't worry--you can take credit. We won't tell.

A dollar doesn't go as far as it used to but there are a few places where it can quench the thirst or sate your hunger. Whether it's $1 octopus sushi or muchos margaritas, check out these scene-worth spots in Dallas that most certainly won't break the bank.

`Tis the season for company execs and cubicle dwellers to converse over tasteful party spreads before the booze helps move the party from boring business chatter to full-on revelry. Whether you want a chic office party or an intimate gathering for your top 10 clients, we've found a venue for the best places to host a party in Dallas.

We're over cosmos but give us an expertly made classic martini or something with a bit of punch (Bloody Martinis anyone?) and we'll gladly belly up to the bar. From martinis for chocolate lovers to fruity, refreshing sips, we've got the martini scene covered in Dallas. Here's where to head for your next indulgence.

They say the best things in life are free, which is definitely true in Dallas where you can find something for nothing on any given day. Check out a few of the spots that offer something on the house to eat, drink or experience. (Photo: Eat gratis tuna rolls during happy hour at Steel. Yum.)

It's time to carve those jack-o-lanterns, but don't toss out Jack's innards. From pumpkin-based facial treatments to streudel cheesecake, there are plenty of places around Dallas that raid pumpkin patches for more than just seasonal decor.

It's never too early to start checking off names from the holiday checklist or finding that special gift for that special someone. From Diesel jeans for your man to handmade picture frames for your BFF, we've got some of the best shopping ideas regardless of your budgetary restrictions this season.