The love for food, the joy of trying new delicacies, and the thrill of dining out are experiences that most people enjoy and look forward to. However, dining out frequently can burn a hole in your pocket.
But does that mean you need to abandon this love of yours to save money? Absolutely not! Let’s talk about 13 ways you can save money while dining out, without compromising on the fun and excitement of the experience.
1. Opt for weekday specials
Many restaurants and cafes offer special deals and discounts on weekdays to attract customers who prefer dining out over the weekend. These offers can range from discounted prices, happy hours, or even buy-one-get-one-free deals.
For instance, a restaurant might offer a discounted three-course meal on a Tuesday evening, or a cafe might have a ‘buy one, get one free’ offer on coffees on a Thursday morning. Keep an eye out for such deals, and plan your outings accordingly to save some bucks.
2. Skip the drinks
Most restaurants charge a high mark-up price on drinks, especially alcoholic beverages. You could end up paying 2-3 times the retail price for a bottle of wine or beer.
Consider drinking at home before heading out for your meal, or stick to tap water or complimentary drinks. Not only will this save you money, but it will also help you better appreciate the taste of your food.
3. Share dishes
Portions at restaurants tend to be larger than what you would typically eat at home. Instead of ordering individual dishes, consider sharing a dish with your dining partner.
This way, you get to try a variety of dishes while keeping your bill in check. Plus, it’s a great way to bond with your dining partner and create shared experiences.
4. Take advantage of loyalty programs
Many restaurants offer loyalty programs where you earn points for every dollar you spend. Over time, these points can be redeemed for discounts or free meals.
For example, a pizza place might offer you a free pizza after you’ve bought ten. While it might not seem like a lot, these savings can add up over time, especially if it’s a place you frequent.
5. Choose your dining spots wisely
Some areas or neighborhoods are known for their expensive dining options. However, just a few blocks away, you might find equally good, if not better, dining options that are much more affordable.
For instance, instead of dining at the expensive seafront restaurant, consider the quaint bistro tucked away in a side street. You might be pleasantly surprised by the quality of food and the savings on your bill.
6. Opt for lunch instead of dinner
Lunch menus are often cheaper than dinner menus, even though the dishes served are quite similar. Plus, restaurants are less crowded during lunch hours, which means you can enjoy your meal in peace.
So, consider meeting your friends for lunch instead of dinner. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also get to enjoy a leisurely meal without feeling rushed.
7. Try out new places during restaurant week
Most cities have a ‘restaurant week’ at least once a year, where participating restaurants offer meals at a discounted price. This is a great opportunity to try out new places without breaking the bank.
So, keep an eye out for announcements about restaurant week in your city, and make your reservations in advance to avoid disappointment.
8. Use discount apps and websites
There are numerous apps and websites that offer discounts and deals for various restaurants. Some of these platforms also have loyalty programs where you can earn points and get additional discounts.
Sites like Groupon and apps like Yelp often have deals for local restaurants. So, before you head out, make sure to check these platforms for any available deals.
9. Order takeout instead
While dining in a restaurant is an experience in itself, sometimes, all you want is the food. In such cases, consider ordering takeout instead.
Many restaurants offer a discount on takeout orders since they save on service and cleaning. Plus, you get to enjoy your favorite food in the comfort of your own home.
10. Bring your own wine
Some restaurants allow you to bring your own wine, and only charge a small corkage fee. This is much cheaper than ordering a bottle of wine from the restaurant.
However, make sure to check with the restaurant beforehand to avoid any disappointment. Also, it’s good etiquette to not bring a bottle that’s already on the restaurant’s wine list.
11. Order from the specials menu
The specials menu usually features dishes that are made from ingredients that are in season or readily available. These dishes are often cheaper than the regular menu items, and are usually just as delicious.
Moreover, the specials menu gives you an opportunity to try out something new and unique that might not be available otherwise.
12. Skip dessert
Like drinks, many restaurants charge a high mark-up on desserts. While it’s nice to end your meal with a sweet treat, consider skipping dessert at the restaurant.
Instead, you could stop by a local bakery on your way home and pick up something sweet for a fraction of the price. Or, if you’re up for it, you could even make your own dessert at home.
13. Use cashback credit cards
Some credit cards offer cashback on dining expenses. Depending on the card, you could get back anywhere from 1% to 5% of your total bill.
However, be careful not to overspend just to earn cashback. Also, make sure to pay your credit card bill in full every month to avoid interest charges.
