Theres this guy at work who seems really nice and I think he wants to be friends but he always suggests these pricey places for lunch. I mean I have some money put aside but I dont want to be irresponsible with it you know?
I feel super awkward saying "thats too expensive" because it sounds cheap, but I also cant keep blowing money just to fit in. Last week he suggested this fancy sushi place and I just said "maybe next time" but then felt weird about it all afternoon.
The thing is he seems genuinely cool and I dont want to mess up a potential friendship over this. But I also can't pretend like money doesn't matter just to seem normal.
Anyone figured out a smooth way to suggest cheaper alternatives without making it weird? Or how to decline without seeming like you're avoiding them personally? I'm overthinking this but its starting to stress me out every time lunch time comes around.