Save Money When Eating Out - 7 Money Saving Tips

It’s no big secret that we all need to sacrifice a little these days in order to make ends meet.  But that doesn’t mean we have to be totally deprived and not do anything fun!  Going out to eat provides us with not only a source of nourishment, but entertainment as well.  We may need to cut back on the number of times we eat out, but there are also ways to save money when eating out.  This way we can still enjoy the occasional respite from the kitchen or a celebration well-deserved, while still saving some dough.

Here are 7 ways you can save money when eating out:

1. Order an appetizer for dinner.  Portions have gotten so big lately that this is usually enough anyway. Or share an entrée with your dining partner, if you both feel like eating the same thing and the portions are substantial.   You can even ask the server to pack up half of your meal before you begin eating, so you’ll have two meals for the price of one.  You’ll save yourself some calories in the process, too!   
2. If you’re headed to a pricey restaurant, consider enjoying a late lunch instead of dinner.  Very often these restaurants have separate lunch menus with portions that are a little smaller and are substantially less expensive.
3. If you’re dining with the kids, sign them up for the birthday club so they’ll get a free meal or dessert on their birthday.  Ask if there are certain days that kids eat free with a paying adult, because sometimes this benefit is not widely advertised.  Some restaurants may also offer a birthday club for adults, too.  
4. For restaurants that you frequent often, inquire about whether they offer a frequent diner program that offers discounts or free meals after you’ve eaten there a certain number of times or spent a specific amount of money.
5. Try to limit beverages when you dine out.  The cost of soft drinks at restaurants has become astronomical!  Most restaurants charge between $2 and $3 just for a soda!  You can get a 2 liter bottle at home for about half that amount.  So stick to drinking water when you’re out and you’ll keep your bill in check.  A slice or two of lemon is a nice added touch.  If you’re enjoying a special celebration and would like a cocktail, don’t get too carried away because the cost of alcoholic drinks can add up very quickly.  Better yet, see if there are any BYOB (bring-your-own-bottle) restaurants in the area and you’ll save a huge chunk of change. 
6. Watch out for desserts – sometimes they cost as much as a meal!  If you must end the meal on a sweet note, consider sharing a dessert among friends.  Not only will your wallet thank you, but your waist will, too!
7. Some chain restaurants also offer coupons, promotions and specials if you sign up directly at their website.  It’s worth checking them out to see if you can save a few bucks!  There are many other places to find restaurant coupons, too.

By following some of these simple ways to save money when eating out, you can still enjoy an occasional indulgence, night off from kitchen-duty, or celebration without breaking the bank.  We hate to penny-pinch all the time, but these money saving tips will help you keep more money in your wallet while still enjoying a night out at your favorite restaurant without much sacrifice.