Eating out can be a great experience, but it can also burn a hole in your wallet. If you’re trying to save money or are on a tight budget, you might feel like eating out is completely out of the question. However, there are many ways to enjoy dining out while still saving money. In this post, we will give you some tips on how to do just that.
Check the Reviews Beforehand
Before you head out to a new restaurant, make sure to check the reviews online. Websites like Yelp and TripAdvisor can help you get a sense of what to expect from the restaurant’s menu and prices. You can also look for pictures of the food and check reviews for service quality. This way, you can avoid restaurants that may not be a good value for your money.
Look for Special Deals and Promotions
Many restaurants offer discounts and promotions on certain days or at specific times. For example, some restaurants may have a happy hour where they offer discounted drinks and appetizers. Others may have a “kids eat free” promotion on certain days of the week. Be sure to do your research and find out if the restaurant you want to go to has any special deals or promotions going on.
Share Your Meal
Portions at restaurants are often very large, so consider sharing a meal with a friend or family member. You’ll save money and still leave feeling satisfied. Not only will this cut down on the cost of your meal, but it will also cut down on the amount of food you consume, which will be good for your waistline and your wallet.
Skip the Beverages or Order Tap Water
Beverages can really increase the cost of your meal, especially if you’re ordering alcoholic drinks. Consider skipping the beverages altogether or opting for tap water, which is free. If you’re really craving a drink, some restaurants offer free refills, so take advantage of that.
Avoid Ordering Appetizers and Desserts
Appetizers and desserts can be very tempting, but they also add to the cost of your meal. Skipping these items will save you money in the long run. If you’re craving something sweet at the end of your meal, consider sharing a dessert with someone else.
Use Coupons and Gift Cards
Before heading out to a restaurant, check if there are any coupons available for the restaurant. Some restaurants offer coupons on their websites or through their email newsletters. Additionally, if you have any gift cards lying around, consider using them when you go out to eat. This is a great way to save money without feeling like you’re sacrificing the dining experience. Before dining out, make sure to utilize available coupons from restaurant websites or newsletters, and consider using any gift cards or e-card you have on hand to save money without compromising on the dining experience.
Get Social
Social media is an excellent tool for finding discounts and deals. Many restaurants offer exclusive deals to their followers, so make sure to follow your favorite restaurants on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. This way, you can stay updated on the latest discounts, deals, and promotions.
Go During Happy Hour
Many restaurants offer Happy Hour specials where you can enjoy discounted prices on drinks and food. This is a great option for those who want to enjoy a meal at a restaurant without spending too much money. Just be sure to check the time frame for Happy Hour specials so you can plan your visit accordingly.
Skip The Delivery Fees
Delivery fees can add up quickly, especially if you are ordering from a popular app like Uber Eats or Grubhub. Consider picking up your food yourself to avoid these extra fees. Some restaurants even offer discounts for takeout orders.
Order Takeout
If you’re on a tight budget, ordering takeout instead of dining in can save you money on the cost of drinks, tips, and table service. Additionally, ordering takeout can help you avoid the temptation to splurge on dishes and drinks that you don’t need.
Bring Your Own Alcohol
If you’re dining out with a group of friends, consider bringing your alcohol. Some restaurants offer corkage fees, which allow you to bring your wine or beer for a small charge. This can save you money on the high cost of drinks and allow you to enjoy your meal with your favorite beverages.
Be Mindful of Tipping
Tipping can significantly impact your dining expense. Instead of tipping the recommended 20%, consider tipping between 15-18%, depending on the quality of service you receive. Additionally, you can save money by tipping in cash since some restaurants add automatic gratuities to credit card transactions.
Eating out doesn’t have to break the bank. By following these tips, you can still enjoy dining out while saving money. Remember to look for special deals and promotions, share your meal, skip the beverages and appetizers, use coupons and gift cards, and consider ordering tap water. By making a few small adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious dining experience without the guilt of overspending.