20 Ways to Save Money at Restaurants

Eating out need not break the bank, try using coupons, having lunch specials, or sharing a meal. Refusing drinks and desserts can save you a ton of money at restaurants while still enjoying the experience. Scheduling in advance and signing up for loyalty programs gives you more steady savings too.

1. Hunt for Specials and Promotions

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Why enjoy the same dish for full price? Many restaurants have lunch specials, happy hours, or weekly deals, all of which can offer substantial savings. Taking advantage of these promos helps you enjoy the food you love while staying on a budget.

2. Opt for Water Instead of Pricey Beverages

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Stay hydrated without going under in your wallet. The same is true for ordering water instead of sodas, cocktails, or other beverages. It’s a better option that maintains both your body and your bank account.

3. Enjoy a Light Snack Before Dining Out

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Getting to a restaurant hungry can mean over-ordering. The little pregame snack takes the edge off extreme hunger, so you can be more deliberate about making quantity and cost-effective choices on the menu. This helps to cut down on food waste and keeps your budget in check.

4. Share Dishes to Maximize Value

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Why not share that mouth-watering entrée? Portion sizes at most restaurants are large, and sharing dishes is often a practical way to enjoy variety without undoing your budget. Not only does this method save on costs, but it also creates a communal experience.

5. Embrace the Kids’ Menu

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Do you want comfort food a little bit less? Adults eating from kids’ menus can score the popular chicken tenders. It’s a nice way to treat yourself without your wallet being drained.

6. Dine During Off-Peak Hours

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The timing of dining deals is everything. Several restaurants provide discounts to draw customers in during slow periods. Going during off hours either much earlier or later than normal is generally going to be a more relaxed experience and cheaper.

7. Sign Up for Restaurant Loyalty Programs

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Loyalty has its perks. Becoming a member of a restaurant’s loyalty program can give you access to special deals, free items, or points for future meals. It’s an easy method to rack up rewards for eating at your favorite places.

8. Utilize Dining Apps for Discounts

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One must-have savings app for today at no-charge platforms. Such as in-kind users receive 20 percent back in dining credits at participating venues. This means that each meal not only fuels your hunger but also vaults you ahead on your culinary journey.

9. Skip the Appetizers and Desserts

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Main courses which are often enough food. Skimp on everything, by skipping appetizers and desserts, your overall bill will decrease to a sizeable amount. This approach allows you to savor your meal minus the expensive extras.

10. Take Advantage of BYOB Policies

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BYOB (be your own bottle) and toast to savings. Many restaurants also permit guests to bring their own beverages, sometimes for a small corkage fee. Drinks may be more economical than if you were to purchase directly from the establishment.

11. Order Takeout Instead of Dining In

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Join us for restaurant-quality food in the comfort of your own home. Getting takeout avoids extra costs such as tips and service charges. It’s a nice way to enjoy your favorite foods while staying more budget-friendly.

12. Prioritize Local Eateries

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Support local and save. Independent restaurants also tend to have competitive prices with bigger chains. Eating at these places will offer some different flavors and more bang for your buck.

13. Limit Dining Out Frequency

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Create a celebration for dining out. Cutting back the number of times you dine outside your home each month can save you big. This tactic helps make each restaurant visit more exciting and cost-effective.

14. Set a Dining Budget

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Plan your indulgences. Setting aside a definite amount for eating out allows you to enjoy meals and eat out without financial worry. That mindset helps you control your spending and keep your finances in shape.

15. Choose Restaurants with No Tipping Policies

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Some places build service charges into their prices. Eating at such venues can make it simpler to estimate the total cost of your meal. This transparency means you can manage your dining spending more effectively.

16. Opt for Fixed-Price Menus

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Fix-price menus serve a set number of courses at a set price. This choice can also offer a complete dining experience at a lower price than ordering à la carte. It’s a great way to try lots of dishes without spending a fortune.

17. Use Cash to Control Spending

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Leave the cards at home. Cash can also help keep you within your budget since you can only spend what you bring with you. It is a more tactile approach to spending creates mindful financial habits.

18. Check for Hidden Fees

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Always scrutinize your bill. Additionally, some restaurants have extra charges for various services or items. Noting these fees will allow you to avoid hidden costs and stick to your budget.

19. Leverage Student or Senior Discounts

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Age has its advantages. Many shops give discounts for students and seniors. Just showing your ID can save you a big chunk of money on your meal.

20. Provide Feedback for Discounts

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You have a voice and it can save you money. Some restaurants will offer discounts or a freebie to customers who fill out feedback forms. Your dining experience can earn you rewards on your next visit.

• Tags:
• eating out
• restaurants
• save
• money