Eating at a restaurant is usually a wonderful but often costly experience. Instead of eliminating restaurants from the family budget use coupons or dine during the day to save money.
Discount Dinner Coupons
Browse local newspapers and magazines for restaurant specials. Often local dining establishments will place 2 for 1 coupons, or free appetizer coupons in newspapers to encourage new clientele. Clip the coupons and place in an envelope to use at later dates.
Another option is to look for online coupons for specific restaurants. Many restaurants provide coupons to encourage new traffic. Dinner coupons can save families or couples a few extra dollars in regards to their entertainment budget.
Meal Selection
Since costs of meals on the menu are varied, it is best to have a price limit before sitting down at the restaurant. A great option to save money is to split a dinner meal. The cost of a la carte is usually at a higher expense. Sharing a meal and an appetizer or salad will still provide a good meal for both.
Another choice is to dine at lunch instead of dinner. Often dinner meals are provided at a lunch price and the portion is only slightly smaller.
Restaurant Deals
Many restaurant have weekly deals except on their busiest nights such as Friday and Saturday. Some restaurants offer half price appetizers or children eat for free with an adult. For families this can mean a big saving on the total cost. As for couples, appetizers can make a great meal with a little creativity.
Another suggestion is to eat between the hours of 4:00 and 6:00 pm for the early bird special. Arriving at 5:45 gives you the price of the early bird special but the ambiance of the evening crowd.
Beverage Choice
One of the most expensive items on the menu are alcoholic beverages. Choose a less expensive option such as water with lemon, juice, or coffee. Alcoholic beverages can cost more than a meal. However, sometimes an alcoholic beverage is worth the cost, just make it last longer by putting the drink in a larger glass.
Eating at a restaurant is an indulgence and one meal can be the cost of a week of groceries. Rather than eliminate restaurants be creative with meal selection, coupons, and the time of day for the visit. As well, ensure to leave a good tip for good service. Saving money is not being cheap it is spending money wisely and giving tips to servers should be calculated in the price limit of the meal.
Debbie DeSpirt - Debbie DeSpirt is an Elementary Teacher for the York Catholic District School Board in Ontario, Canada. Her post secondary education ...
Join the Conversation