The perfect date. Instantly, something comes to mind, whether it was the word “expensive” or “romantic.” Well, I have explored most of downtown Columbia and found the “perfect date” to cater to both parties on a Saturday night. To really experience all that Columbia has to offer, it would be best to start the date around 6 p.m.

Dinner is an important meal of the day, so why not start with there? The Rome specializes in Italian food and is conveniently located in the heart of downtown at 114 S. Ninth St. The Rome offers a rather dimly-lit atmosphere, which sets the mood for romance. The Rome’s offerings include pasta, fettuccine alfredo, seafood ravioli, burgers, sandwiches, calzones and yes, of course, pizza. The prices here range from about $7-15 for an individual serving size. Here at The Rome, those who are picky can still find something to satisfy their appetites.

For dessert, pastries at one of Columbia’s best kept secrets, The Velvet Cupcake. The Velvet Cupcake is a small shop located downtown at 201 S. Ninth St. The shop closes it doors at 9 p.m., so it would wise to head over at about 7:30 or 8. Some of the assorted pastries you can find include red velvet cupcakes, carrot cupcakes, PB&J cupcakes, Nutella hazelnut cupcakes, triple chocolate ganache cupcakes and even white wedding cake cupcakes that are in stock and ready when ordered. You also have the option to order coffee, chocolate-covered strawberries and truffles — yum! To make this list even better, most of the items on the menu are about $3 each. The Velvet Cupcake caters to those with both a sweet tooth and a modest budget.

For those still up for a night on the town with a little more to spend, there are various entertainment options located in The District. Two interesting ideas to check out besides your typical late-night movie are The Missouri Theatre and Déjà Vu Comedy Club. The first option is seeing a play or show at The Missouri Theatre, located at 203 S. Ninth St. Shows here range from “The Beauty and the Beast” to the percussion group “Stomp.” Ticket prices are individually about $10-30, and some shows are free to MU students. Those with a funny bone might be interested in visiting some of the comedy acts at Déjà Vu, located at 405 E. Cherry St., and show times range between 8-10 p.m. The night does not have to end after dessert.

Hopefully this view into some of the places the city of Columbia has to offer inspires you to check some of these places out and determine their worth for yourself.