For many teenagers, prom is the highlight of high school. While girls have the stress of choosing a dress and fixing their hair and makeup, the boys are often left with the task of choosing the restaurant for prom night dinner.
This can prove to be extremely tricky for the guys. They want a place that's nice enough to impress their date but not so expensive that they can't afford it. With that in mind, the following restaurants are a step above casual family dining but they are a little easier on the budget than the truly upscale restaurants around town.
Carrabba's
Carrabba's is another national chain but it offers outstanding food and service. The servers at Carrabba's generally go out of their way to make any occasion special, making this a great choice for prom night.5110 Poplar Avenue
Memphis, TN 38117
(901) 685-9900
Ciao Bella
Ciao Bella Italian Grill is comfortably casual while maintaining an understated elegance. While many of their menu selections might be a bit more sophisticated than the average teen palate is used to, there are plenty of familiar items available like lasagna, pizza, and ravioli.565 Erin Drive
Memphis, TN 38117
(901) 205-2500
Firebirds
Firebirds is a steakhouse that is a bit nicer than the peanut-shells-on-the-floor restaurants you might typically go to. Still, though, it's casual enough that teens will likely feel comfortable there and the menu prices aren't so high as to be completely prohibitive.Half Shell
The Half Shell is a Memphis institution that serves seafood favorites in a comfortable environment. Prices are a bit steeper than at a typical chain seafood restaurant but there are still plenty of menu options for less than $20.688 South Mendenhall
Memphis, TN 38117 (901) 682-3966
or
7825 Winchester
Memphis, TN 38125
(901) 737-6755
J. Alexander's
J. Alexander's isn't fancy but it's not too casual, either. They offer a reasonably priced menu (think $12-$26) with plenty of choices that will appeal to teens. This is a popular spot among prom-goers, though, so there may be a wait during prom season.2670 N Germantown Pkwy
Memphis, TN 38133
(901) 381-9670
Majestic Grille
Housed in an elegantly restored silent movie theater, the Majestic Grille offers the perfect ambiance for a special date. While there are some pricier entrees on the menu (like the $32 steaks), there are also less expensive items like a $9 burger and fries that make it affordable for teens.145 S. Main Street
Memphis, TN 38103
(901) 522-8555
The Melting Pot
The Melting Pot offers diners a fun experience in addition to delicious food. You'll dip your own food in table top fondue pots and cook your entree yourself. Best of all The Melting Pot typically offers special prom night promotions during prom season.2828 Wolfcreek Parkway
Memphis, TN 38133-8152
(901) 380-9500
Old Venice Pizza Company
Old Venice Pizza Company successfully manages to provide a casual, yet elegant atmosphere. They serve Italian food including the usual favorites, as well as a seemingly never-ending assortment of pizzas.368 Perkins Extended
Memphis, TN 38117
(901) 767-6872
P.F. Chang's
P.F. Chang's is a trendy Chinese bistro with a great ambiance for prom night. They also have a very reasonably priced menu for two making this an economical choice for teenagers.1181 Ridgeway Rd.
Memphis, TN 38119
(901) 818-3889
Texas de Brazil
Texas de Brazil is a Brazilian-American steakhouse that serves all you can eat salads, sides, and grilled meats. It's a bit pricey, but buy-one-get-one coupons are often available. This would be a great destination for a group of friends on prom night.150 Peabody Place, Suite 103
Memphis, TN 38103
(901) 526-7600
