Follow these money-saving tips if you want to dine out more!
Food is the third-highest expense for Americans and usually people’s most significant budget buster. But sticking to a food budget is rather tricky when you love eating out.
Restaurant dining can get pretty expensive, and with the cost of living to consider, it’s more important than ever to find smart ways to save money on your food spending.
So, if, like us, you’re not willing to refrain from the pleasure of having someone else do all the cooking and, of course, cleaning, for you, here are 12 ways genius money-saving tips so you can still indulge but keep your costs down the next time you eat out.
Money-saving tip: Use a discount gift card
Check online sites like Raise.com or warehouse clubs for discounted gift cards to your favorite restaurants. You can frequently find restaurant gift cards selling for 10-20% off, which can instantly take a big chunk out of your bill.
Money-saving tip: Order your food online and pick it up
Most restaurants nowadays accept orders online. This allows you to order what you want and you can take advantage of online discounts that are generally available only through the websites.
Money-saving tip: Skip the dessert
Ordering dessert can significantly increase the cost of a meal. So, if you’re looking to save a bit more money, just skip it. If you have a sweet tooth and simply MUST have a dessert, just pick up some ice cream on your way home.
Money-saving tip: Download the app
Did you know that many restaurant chains have mobile apps nowadays? And the best part is that they usually have deals and coupons you can only get through their app.
So simply download your favorite restaurant’s app before you go out to eat, and it’ll help you save a few extra bucks.
Money-saving tip: Go to an all-you-can-eat buffet
There’s no question about it…Buffets can be expensive. But the reality is that nowadays, they’re rare. And even though you wouldn’t want to go every day, you’ll be paying less than normal restaurants where you’re charged for the presentation and the food.
If you can find a buffet in your area, most stock a handful of pricey items, like lobster or crab legs, that make for quick payback once you’ve had a few servings. Seafood buffets are generally an affordable indulgence.
The variety of buffets is a good argument for going to a restaurant since there’s no way you could go to a typical restaurant and get so many dishes on a plate for that kind of money.
Money-saving tip: Become a mystery shopper
If you’re willing to put in a little bit of extra work, you can get paid to eat at restaurants and give feedback as a mystery shopper. It’s a fantastic way to earn extra money while indulging in your favorite meal at a restaurant.
Money-saving tip: Go for lunch rather than dinner
Dinner out is usually more expensive than lunch, and many restaurants offer lunch specials to draw new customers and turn tables over fast. So try to opt for a more affordable lunch date rather than dining during prime time in the evening.
And remember to look for “Lunch Specials.” Restaurants have always featured lunchtime deals to attract more diners on strict budgets, including chains like Olive Garden, Applebee’s, and Outback.
Some restaurants have terminated lunch service temporarily to focus on more lucrative dinners. But those who offer both will likely have deals.
Money-saving tip: Use credit card discount offers
Certain credit card companies, including American Express, offer reward points or discounts at restaurants. If you use a particular credit card on a regular basis, check to see if any discount offers are available.
Money-saving tip: Save some for later
Have you noticed that meal portions are getting bigger and bigger by the minute? Rather than stuffing yourself and ultimately contributing to food waste, ask for a to-go box when getting the check and save half for later.
You AND your wallet will feel so much better for stretching it into two meals.
Money-saving tip: Is it your birthday?… You’re in luck!
You might need to sign up for rewards programs and mailing lists, or you may even have to download an app. But many restaurants will give you some free food to mark your special day. Although the servers might insist on singing, so brace yourself.
The main idea is that many places will be eager to see you walk through their doors on your birthday. Yet again, there’s another way to get free food on your birthday: Spend it with friends and family who’ll want to treat you!
And since we’re on the subject of special days, did you know you could take advantage of “National Days?” To begin, there’s a National Cheeseburger Day. And did you know there’s even a National Pizza Day?
Lots of restaurants often offer special deals on these types of days. So, if you’re craving a particular food item, check to see if there’s a national day for it. You might be able to get an even more affordable meal than usual.
Money-saving tip: Sharing is caring
Dinner entrees are usually much larger portions than you would typically eat. So consider splitting your meal with your dining partner to save some extra cash.
Once you get home, create a side salad with items from Amazon Fresh, and you’ve got yourself an entire second meal!
Money-saving tip: Check the menu in advance
Most restaurants nowadays post their menus online. So you can check the prices of all your favorite meals before you go out to eat. This can aid you in budgeting for your meal better and you’ll avoid ordering something too pricey.
You might also be able to find a more affordable food item to try on the lunch menu or the kid’s menu that you might not see when you’re in a rush to order.
The bottom line? Eating out can get pretty expensive. But it’s possible to actually save money when eating at your favorite restaurants. By following these genius money-saving tips, you can save your hard-earned cash and can still enjoy a delicious meal.
So, the next time you plan a night out, keep these tips and tricks in mind, and you’ll be able to stick to your budget like a pro!
Looking to save some more money? Check this out: 9 Overrated Kirkland Items You’ve Been Wasting Your Money On
One Response
Skip the beverages and have them before or after at home. Water or water with lemon is healthier for you. You could also ask for hot water and put lemon in it for a pseudo-tea.
Skip the appetizers, especially if you normally take leftovers home.
Have an appetizer at home, before you go (maybe with a beverage). There are many store bought appetizers that are similar to what you would get in a restaurant. Some restaurants even have them in the frozen section. Then you may not eat as much and have leftovers to take home.
Have an appetizer for your lunch or dinner, especially if you are a light eater. It is usually less expensive than a meal. Some appetizers let you choose several items for variety. Maybe you don’t care for soup or salad as a side dish. Also, many restaurants are not offering soup, salad or sides with the entrées any more. You may already have to pay extra for them. Items, such as loaded nachos are filling. If you don’t eat very much, you could have the ingredients presented in containers. Eat what you want and take the rest home with no mess.