Save Money On Eating Out
1. Use 2-for-1
coupons.
You'll find them in the newspaper or in direct mail
offers those buy-one-meal-get-the-other-one-free deals. Use them as a way to discover new restaurants you haven't
tried yet or just to save money when you feel like eating out. Get more restaurant coupons
here.
2. Discover the
Happy Hour Menu.
Most restaurants that have a full-service bar are
now offering Happy Hour menus. If you want to eat between 3pm-6pm, there are some really great deals out there. Try
a 1/4-pound cheeseburger and fries for anywhere from $1.95 to $2.95, soups and salads, nachos, tacos, chicken
strips, ribs and much, much more. Of course, this is only for adults; no children are allowed. Another thing, most
bars will require a minimum drink purchase, but the good thing is that even the booze is usually discounted during
Happy Hour.
3. Split
dinners.
This works best in Italian or Chinese restaurants, but it
can be used anywhere. At restaurants known for exceptionally large servings, order only one entree and split
it. For a family of four, order only two or three entrees and divvy them up among yourselves. With fully one-third
of our population categorized as obese, doesn't this idea seem a lot more practical?
4. Buffet meals
for family fare.
When taking the family out to dinner, consider
restaurants that have buffets. In most cases, the prices are outstanding and a parent can share with a small child.
They are usually all-you-can-eat, and there is something for everyone. Other than fast-food restaurants, buffets
are one place that won't break the bank when eating out.
5. Try out
appetizers.
Better restaurants usually have a long list of
appetizers that are reasonably priced. If you're not outrageously hungry, perhaps there's a yummy item on the
appetizer menu that will satisfy your hunger. Also, don't be afraid to ask for fresh bread to accompany your
meal.
6. Watch what
you drink.
Many times the cost of your drinks can total more than
the cost of your meal. How about a cocktail or a glass of wine at home before you leave for the restaurant. This
could save you a fortune if you eat out frequently. Limit yourself to water with a squeeze of lemon or lime with
your meal. Also, get your after-dinner cup of coffee at home, too. Drinks, including sodas, have some of the
highest mark-ups.
7. Ask for a
doggie bag.
It really isn't necessary to clean your plate off. Eat
what you feel comfortable with and take the rest home for another meal. This in itself is a 2-for-1
deal.
8. Try lunch instead
of dinner.
Many of the expensive restaurants are also open for
lunch, but the lunch menu can be as much as half the cost of their dinner menu. If you're dying to try a
pricey new eatery, why not go for lunch and keep the cost down.
9. Older is
better.
Some places it's 50, others it's 55, 60, 62 or 65, but
seniors can luck out at many restaurants that offer them a discount. Sometimes senior discounts are offered on
specific nights of the week. Call your favorite restaurants and ask if they offer senior discounts. Also,
places like Denny's and IHOP have senior menus offering smaller quantities and lower prices, and many times you
don't have to be a senior to enjoy the savings.
10. Check out online specials.
If
you have favorite chain restaurants, check their sites out online to see if they have specials you can take
advantage of. Sign up for their newsletter to receive coupons, special offers and freebies on your birthday. Some
of these restaurants include TGI
Fridays, Dairy
Queen and Pizza
Hut.
Click here to start saving money on
clothing.
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