Going Out to Eat on a Budget
Guest post by Heather Johnson.
Who doesn’t love to go out to eat? Everyone needs a break from slaving over the stove and then worrying about doing the dishes. But it seems, just like anything else these days, going out to dinner costs too much. But there are ways to make sure that you and your family get to a restaurant every now and then. Follow these tips and you’ll start enjoying those nights out again:
1) Join the club. Find out if your town or region has a dining club you can join. Many dining clubs are affiliated with restaurants and they’ll offer special deals on typically off-nights. For example, a restaurant may offer a “two-for-one” deal on a Tuesday night. It helps the restaurant by getting new people into their establishment and makes an off-night busier. It also lets you try a new restaurant.
2) Check the paper. Look inside your Sunday newspaper or the circulars that you get in the mail every week for coupons. Many national restaurants will offer discounts or a free meal if you purchase another at the same price or higher. These deals will allow you to save a nice chunk of change on a final bill.
3) Drink water. Avoid the pricey drinks that a restaurant may offer. Certainly stay away from the alcoholic drinks, but even avoid sodas and juices, as this is an area where restaurants are looking to rake in serious money. Order a water and get some lemon slices to spice it up. You’ll never pay for water and they’ll refill your glass whenever you’re getting low.
4) Order an appetizer as your meal. Many times a restaurant’s appetizer is sufficient for a full meal. They’re always cheaper than entrees. Order a bowl of soup or a side salad in addition and you’ll save a great deal.
5) Don’t order dessert. As enticing as the desserts you’ve seen go to other tables around you, resist the temptation. If you feel like a treat after your meal, stop off at an ice cream shop on the way home and get a cone or wait until you get home.
6) Learn to share. Many entrees are way too big to eat by one person. If you’re afraid that it won’t be enough then order an appetizer and split that as well. Maybe you could try an entree that you would never order by yourself!
Heather Johnson is a freelance writer as well as a feature article contributor for Reward Programs, a site which helps consumers pick the best rewards program to best meet their needs. Heather welcomes your comments and emails related to job inquiries at her email,
heatherjohnson2323@gmail.com.
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2 opinions for Going Out to Eat on a Budget
NH Mom of 3
Apr 15, 2008 at 9:01 am
This is a great list. We also save money on going on eating out by using coupons and discounts in the Entertainment book and discounted gift certificates at restaurant.com (who have pretty consistent extra % off codes available online). The other tip that we have used, especially while on vacation is to try out fancy, more expensive places for lunch vs. dinner. Many times the same range of dishes are available, but are less expensive!
Sarah
Apr 15, 2008 at 12:36 pm
Dessert money-saver:
Ice cream out is ridiculously expensive (unless you just get a cone from McDonalds).
“Splurge” on a half-gallon from the store in a special flavor. If you’re buying for multiple eaters, you’ll save at least $10!
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