It always happens. You decide that you spend too much on food, but you get invited out to eat. Sometimes it has just been one of those days, and you just can’t cook. Consider these tips when dining at restaurants to save money on your next check.
Order water. Water is always free and refills are abundant. Restaurant drinks are always more expensive than store bought drinks, so save the soda for home.
Plan out your meal. Planning your ticket ahead of time could mean you won’t have to worry about impulse-ordering that appetizer or dessert. Online menus allow you to look at the prices and make sure they fit into your budget.
Order appetizers for meals. If you’re at a restaurant with particularly large portions and you’re not feeling it, order an appetizer instead. The portion size is smaller and more managable along with making a smaller dent in your wallet. You can also ask to have it brought out with the other meals so your friends won’t feel left out.
Check out the lunch portions or special deals. Lunch portions are a great way to reduce the amount of food so you aren’t stuffed, and their cheaper prices reflect that. Some restaurants also offer specials, i.e. Taco Tuesday, but don’t confuse them with specialty dishes, as those can be more expensive than the regular menu.
Coupons, coupons, coupons. Many restaurants will advertise specials or provide coupons in local newspapers or magazines. Checking coupons could mean a free appetizer with your meal.
Eat a snack beforehand. If you’re really hungry but not up for paying the full price of the meal, eat a healthy snack at home before you go, such as fruit or a small salad. This way you can eat food you already have at home, therefore ordering less at the restaurant.
Go to restaurants with free appetizers. Mexican restaurants will always have chips and salsa to eat before your meal, and Italian restaurants will usually have bread. Eating free appetizers is a great way to keep yourself full and your check smaller.
Share meals. Sharing a meal on a date or with a friend is a plus for both parties. It will literally cut the price of a meal in half, helping you both save money.
Keeping these tips in mind will help you be less afraid of the bill next time you go out to eat. You can even use the money you save to give your waiter or waitress a well-deserved tip.
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Happy dining!