This causes so much drama among my friends, it's ridiculous. I think that the guy should pay on the first few dates, unless the girl asked him. Once you've gotten more settled into a relationship, figure something out based on finances - for example, last semester my boyfriend paid for almost everything because even though his on campus job paid way less than mine, he was getting a great job at graduation, and I had 7 years of school left.
James, I agree that girl was rude to suggest a restaurant with that much of a price difference - if I don't feel like going to TGIs, I'd suggest Applebee's or Chili's, not something in a totally different style and price range.
and PiKA, you can take me on dates whenever you want.
As for the friends paying for things, it's iffy. I've noticed my friends who graduated from the all-boys school will always want to pick up the tab for friends, whereas my friends from my public school usually don't. I haven't figured out if it is having more money, a "better" upbringing, or both. I think it's the upbringing - these guys also will open car doors for all girls, always hold doors open, etc. I love them.
My high school boyfriend and I argued about this all the time - I made at least twice as much he did (he was a lifeguard, I sold shoes) and he always insisted on paying. I felt horrible about it until I learned that his parents helped him out.
