introducing...cheap date

The Chicago Sun-Times introduced me to PoorLittleRichGirls.com, a Chicago-based Web site that helps young partiers find inexpensive foods, drinks and fashions.

I know, I know. Curbing your martini indulgences might not be as economically painful as, say, watching your home go into foreclosure. Still, the site highlights the effect this crazy economy has had on our social lives.

Fortunately, in Columbus, we rarely have to worry about exorbitantly priced cocktails. And any hot spot attempting to charge more than a $5 cover without offering stellar entertainment will likely change its ways quickly.

That doesn't mean local 20- and 30-somethings aren't stressing about the economics of going out.

That's why I'm making more of an effort to highlight affordable date options.

Beginning with this one: Hit up Cowboy's Steak Saloon Sunday through Tuesday and get two entrees for just $12.99. You'll pick from options like steaks, pork chops and chicken. It's not fine dining, but the ambiance is at least at the level of (maybe a notch above) your typical chain restaurant.

Cowboy's is at 2301 Airport Thruway. Visit the restaurant's Web site here.