If you invite your boyfriend/girlfriend out to dinner to a restaurant

You can argue both sides. Personally I think it's in bad taste to invite someone out for your birthday and not make it your treat. Also because you are probably picking a place that you like more than something they like, that might be a bit expensive for what they can afford etc. They provide their company and gifts already. You are supposed to let them share in the festivities and not demand more, the way I see it.

of course, don't be a cheap piece of shit

You "made" them come to entertain you so it's proper etiquette that you pay for their "services"

>>18311478
It's really up to whoever wants to pay. you suggested the occasion so If they don't offer to pay just pay for it. No point making a fuss about 50 dollars or less.

Normally I always split the bill with people.

>>18311563

What an autistic and bitter way of viewing it. Ignore this loser.

It's considered polite to pay. You're asking to celebrate their birthday with them, so it's acceptable for you to cover the bill. If they asked you to come along with them, splitting the bill would be okay but if you were generous, you could pay as well.

It has nothing to do with goods and services and everything to do with etiquette. Something I am sure the guy I quoted has absolutely no understanding of.

>>18311583
>you're asking to celebrate their birthday with them

You are asking them to celebrate your own birthday with them, not their birthday. That's why the OP is asking.

I think if you invite someone somewhere, you should be prepared to pay or at least split.

>>18311478
"Hey, it's my birthday and we should eat at some fancy place. You pay though."

>>18311621

Of course - I didn't read the original post correctly! You're right with your answer, either pay or split.

But I do think it's strange that you'd have to ask somebody out to celebrate your birthday. Surely they should be asking you if they're a partner.