Despite my awareness and respect for more modern practices, I have a soft spot for traditional values.

Ultimately, even if it's a first date, if you connect with the person you could even talk about the concept of "paying for the bill", and joke about it—it depends on each person's values. If the booze is flowing (not that it has to be) you can discuss this kind of thing in a relaxed way.

Personally, even though I'm in a long-term relationship, if I was on a date now I would offer to pay, as long as the woman felt comfortable with it. Better to be chill about the whole thing.