DATE NIGHT OF THE WEEK: Irish Versus Scottish Fare in Old City

Each week, we go through our event listings to cull the perfect date night of the week—whether you’re longtime lovebirds or Tinder-finding newbies. This week, we’ll be taking you all the way to Ireland and Scotland via Old City for an evening of food, drink, and theater.

Plough and the Stars Facebook

TO START: Dinner and Drinks at Plough & the Stars

This very cozy iconic Old City spot is the perfect way to start off the evening. Begin with a pint of your favorite ale (they keep an updated list here) or wine. If you really want to get things off to a warm start, order a shot of your favorite Scotch or Irish whiskey from a wide assortment. There are myriad Irish-inspired dishes on the food menu, including a Guinness casserole and a rack of lamb served with, you guessed it, potatoes. There's often live Irish music, candlelight, and a roaring fireplace, making this a must-do romantic start for your special evening. Monday through Saturday, 5 pm to 10 pm and Sunday, 5 pm to 9 pm (dinner); Sunday through Friday, 11:30 am to midnight, and Saturday, 10 pm., Plough and the Stars, 123 Chestnut Street, ploughstars.com.

MAIN EVENT: See Macbeth at Arden Theatre Co.

Next, we move to Scotland for one of Shakespeare's most tragic, dark, and engaging works. Take your date to The Arden Theatre Company, a mere two blocks from The Plough and the Stars, for their acclaimed production of Macbeth, playing now through April 19th. Innovative director Alexander Burns brings his vision to this classical work, starring a slew of Philly theater favorites, including Ian Merrill Peakes as the title role. Let's just hope your date night doesn't end up like the couple at the end of the play. Through April 19th, various times, $39, Arden Theatre Company, 40 North Second Street, ardentheatre.org.

Brownie's Irish Pub Facebook

GRAND FINALE: A Nightcap at Brownie's Irish Pub

After all that Shakespearian tragedy, you'll probably want/need another drink. Walk a few blocks from the theater to Brownie's for a low-key nightcap that will be sure to end the evening on a fun note. There's pool tables for a quick game, darts (if your date isn't going so well, you can picture his or her face on the board), and over 14 domestic and imported seasonal beers available for drinking. They're also open daily until 2 am, so you can enjoy the debauchery until the wee hours of the morning. Monday through Friday, 11 am-2 pm; Saturday and Sunday, noon-2 am, Brownie's Irish Pub, 46 South 2nd Street, browniesirishpub.com.