Being a Thomasian definitely has its own set of perks. A notable one perhaps would be how it's surrounded by a goldmine of gastronomic finds—whether you find yourself in P. Noval, Dapitan, España, Lacson, or even the unassuming streets in between. We can't help but gush as the mouthwatering sights and smells fill our minds with delight. The Tiger's all-encompassing food hub also proves gush-worthy when planning to spend some quality time with the bae. So, ready your tastebuds lovers. We're taking you to five Candymag.com-approved date places near UST. No need to break the bank, we promise.
- Amor Bakery
If you're the kind of couple who are early risers, you're in luck. A lovely nook in the confines of Espana is waiting in the wings. The interiors are filled to the brim with charming quirks—colorful chandeliers,  murals, and the like that make for quite the elegant morning date to jumpstart your day. Pro tip: Make sure you order a platter of their top of the line pastries that come in sweet and savory form.
Perfect for: Breakfast runs and IG-worthy snaps
Budget: Approximately P300 for two
Hours: Mondays to Sundays 7A.M.to 11P.M.
Amor Bakery is located at 8010 Espana Corner Tolentino Street, Sampaloc, Manila.
- Shake It Up
It's midday and your sweet tooth is acting up. Give in and indulge with Shake It Up's various shades of milkshake perfect for every mood. Their menu is also keen on playing matchmaker with their drinks, adding well-loved snacks to their growing list of options. So while you're at it, order up some of their fries and burgers for you and the babe. We just love how everything feels so cozy and homey here.
Perfect for: Chillin' while waiting for the next class
Budget: Approximately P300 for two
Hours: Mondays to Saturdays 9A.M.to 9:30P.M.
Shake It Up is located at 1236 Asturias Street, near Dapitan UST.
- R. Thai Cuisine
Thomasians swear by the good grub of this diner down the corner of V. Concepcion. It's opened its doors to the yellow crowd since the '90s and has made a legion of loyal followers since. And all for good reason too. This eatery is proof that genuine interpretations of stellar cuisines don't have to break the bank.
Perfect for: Bang-for-your-buck lunch dates
Budget: Approximately P400 for two
Hours:Â Mondays to Sundays 9A.M.to 9P.M.
S.R. Thai Cuisine is located at 1229 V. Concepcion Street, Sampaloc, Manila.
- The Food Truck Manila
This foodie haven does not have much catching up to do in UST's eat street department, despite being the new kid in the block. The three-storey rustic-themed joint was fully transformed from container vans and mimics a mini food park serving up a variety of Tex-Mex fusion dishes and comfort food. The Food Truck Manila is the place to be if you and the babe can't decide on where or what to eat.
Perfect for: All your Tex-Mex cravings
Budget: Approximately P400 for two
Hours:Â Mondays to Sundays 11A.M.to 3P.M., 5P.M.to 11:30P.M.
The Food Truck Manila is located at 1085 P.Noval Corner J.Barlin Street, Sampaloc, Manila.
- IChill Theater Café
Stress week is finally over and you just want a space to kick back and relax with your special someone. Drop everything and head on over to IChill Theater Café. Not only do they serve eats that immediately give you a feeling of cheer and ease, there's plenty to do here as well. First up, you get a free massage upon placing your order. Then there's even a couple of board games, books, and zines to choose from. If that's not enough, they even have open mics, karaoke nights, and film screenings. What's not to love?
Perfect for: When you want to unwind and have a good time
Budget: Approximately P450 for two
Hours:Â Mondays to Sundays 3P.M.to 1A.M.
IChill Theater Café is located at 1125 Dos Castillas Street, Sampaloc, Manila.
How much do *you* spend on dates? Do you go dutch or does your boyfriend or girlfriend foot the bill?