foodha for thought – menuism blog

These days, many people are  trying to spend less money which could mean cutting back on things you enjoy, such as eating out.  However, there are just those days when it’s more convenient to go out for a meal and let’s face it, having someone else do the dishes is a nice perk.   It’s also important to remember that your dining out also ensures that restaurants can continue to stay in business and provide jobs.

To help you stay within a reasonable dining out budget as well as still be able to support local restaurants, here are some dining dollar stretching tips.

1. Many national chains offer dining out coupons which might include a free entrée with the purchase of another entrée or a discount off of your final bill.  You may find these coupons in your Sunday paper, in your mailbox, off the restaurant website or in Entertainment books.
2. You can save money by not ordering any beverages.  Alcoholic beverages can turn a reasonably priced meal into an indulgence.  Stick with water as your drink of choice.  Ask for fresh lemon, lime or orange slices to squeeze into your water to give it a little flavor.
3. If you’re a light eater, consider ordering an appetizer or soup as your entrée along with a vegetable or side salad. It’s a meal that will satisfy, but not loosen your wallet too much.  You may also consider checking out the children’s menu. The portions are smaller as is the price, which is definitely a win-win for you.
4. Skip the expensive desserts. If you’re still in the mood for something sweet, make an ice cream or yogurt stop on the way home.
5. With entrees at restaurants these days being quite large, eat only half your portion and take the rest home in a doggy bag for lunch the next day.  You get two meals for the price of one.
6. Why not share an entree with your dining partner, especially if the entrees are large. Just be aware of “split plate” fees.
7. Look for small, family owned and/or or ethnic restaurants, diners and cafeterias that are off the beaten path for your next meal. What these restaurants may not offer in ambiance, they make up for in delicious food that is also affordable.
8. Lunches are always cheaper than dinners. If you have a choice between a Saturday lunch or a Saturday dinner, choose the lunch option. If lunch is not an option that day and if it’s available, ask if you can order a lunch portion of the meal. The portion will be smaller and budget- friendly.
9. Order food for takeout as opposed to sitting down for a meal.  You’ll save the cost of a tip and you can have your beverage of choice at home.
10. If you have kids, take advantage of the Kid’s Eat Free nights at many local restaurants. If you have a coupon for the meal, that will be double the savings for a huge amount of food. If your child does not finish his meal, have the waitress box up half of the meal for you and use it for the next day’s lunch.

Try putting these tips into practice and hopefully, you’ll be able to indulge in more nights eating out without breaking the budget!