Dining out is usually one of the first things people cut out of their budget when trying to save money. As much as we love the feeling of walking into a restaurant or café to have some delicious food and lively atmosphere, it can become quite expensive, especially if it is made into a regular thing. Let’s face it, it’s getting harder and harder to find delicious food at an affordable price when you dine out! With that said, if you follow the tips outlined below, you can still dine out while traveling or from time-to-time at-home and save money while doing it. These tips will be great if you have currently set up a budget with your money but don’t want to miss out on the fun of going somewhere other than your kitchen. Keep in mind that just because you are using these tips, it doesn’t mean you can make a habit out of it, because as we know – a bargain still costs.
Tips on How to Save Money When Dining Out
* Dine during off-peak hours! Instead of hitting a restaurant, like London steakhouse (or elsewhere), for example, at prime breakfast, lunch and dinner hours…go earlier or later!
* Talk to the staff and ask them about manager’s specials and look for BOGO (buy one, get one) offers. While your choices are more limited…you can get some great dining deals.
* Skip the paid beverages! Ask for water or bring your own beverage and just ask for a cup of ice. The majority or restaurants don’t charge a fee. In addition, if you’re paying for a beverage, skip the alcohol. Restaurants charge a fortune for alcohol and usually mark it up 50% or higher.
* Utilize coupons whenever possible! Check their website for downloadable coupons or your local newspaper. If you can’t find any coupons, don’t be afraid to ask for a discount.
* If possible, use military, civil servant, volunteer, senior and student discounts!
* Dine at establishments that allow small children to dine for FREE (with paying adults) or ones that allow small children to eat off the plates of their parents.
* If you didn’t completely finish your meal…always request a take-home box and take leftovers home with you! You paid for them, enjoy them at home!
* Avoid the extras! Asking for extra cheese, an extra pickle, additional gravy, more salad dressing, rolls and so forth are NOT free! These “extras” can really run up your bill.
* Pay cash! These days some restaurants will charge a small fee if you use a credit or debit card. In addition, it’s just safer to pay for your meal in cash due to all of the credit card skimming that is going on these days.
Even though you’re looking to save money while dining out, it’s still important to leave an appropriate tip when applicable.
These are all good ideas. It is very rare I get to eat out other than fast food, and when I do, I need to be careful of cost, so I appreciate this!
I always try to save money when eating out. Going out to eat at lunch time can be much cheaper.
I am never embarrassed to use coupons! Even really good restaurants have special deals & I’ll look for them. Also, be willing to try new restaurants. New places tend to have special deals to attract diners.
I ask if my appetizer can be serve as my entree.
My number one thing when trying to economize in a restaurant is to keep a sharp eye on all drinks and coffees, they add up!