Save Money While Eating Out
One of the top things most people cut from their budgets to save money is eating out. Eating out is a luxury and most often costs more money than just eating at home.
But for many of us — when both parents work and you are rushing to take children to after school activities, the occasional meal out can be a real lifesaver. So how can you do it without breaking your budget? Let’s also keep in mind there are things everyone will want to celebrate: birthdays, anniversaries and other life events where eating out is a nice treat for everyone. Here are some tips for eating out while still keeping some green in your pocket.
Always do a little homework before going to the restaurant. In another economy you might simply pick your restaurant and make your reservation. But in today’s current climate, you’ll want to do some investigation. See if the restaurant has a special “early bird” evening where dinner in cheaper. Or see if they offer a coupon to save a discount or even “buy one get one free entree” type of offer. Restaurants are quite eager to have your business and many that have not considered offering special deals are doing them today. It certainly doesn’t hurt to call and ask if there are any special offers at that restaurant before you make your reservation.
If they don’t offer any special coupon or deal — you can still get a great meal. Try going there for lunch or even brunch instead of dinner. A midday meal will always be cheaper. Order what you really feel you’ll enjoy while sticking to your budget. So if dessert is what makes you feel like you are indulging yourself – then spend your money there. Or if you just love to have an appetizer before lunch or dinner, then order one. But just don’t order both. Your waistline and your wallet will thank you! Another top way to save money is to take it easy on the alcohol. Order just one alcoholic drink and then switch to soda or seltzer.
Consider investing in a savings book like the Entertainment Book. With the Entertainment Book you can save between 20 – 30 % at participating restaurants. They offer many different types of special offers at restaurants and other dining establishments. This is an excellent investment as most Entertainment Books are about twenty dollars. If you have a child in college and you like to take them out to eat when you visit this can be a great way to save money on your visits.
Look for ways to scrimp so you can truly treat yourself to a nice meal. For some occasions, you’ll want to have a great meal and not worry about the cost. If your tenth wedding anniversary is around the corner – then you want the best table at the best restaruant in town. That is the ideal time to look for other ways to scrimp on your budget for a few weeks prior to the dinner to save the money to pay for the meal. Foregoing fancy coffee drinks or some other luxuries can be well worth it to see the smile on your spouse’s face!