10 Money Saving Tips on Eating Out

Do you enjoy eating out but really can’t afford to? I know we enjoy an occasional out at a restaurant every once in awhile. But have you seen how much a meal for a family of 5 can cost eating out??  But with a little thought and planning, we all can enjoy eating out on a budget!! Here are a few tips that can help you save money when you go out to dine:

1. If you can choose the time of day, you’ll find that breakfast is usually lower in cost. If that’s not possible, dine out during lunch or brunch time, which tends to be cheaper than at dinner time.

2. Dine out during the week rather than on the weekend. Almost all restaurants offer weekly specials where you’ll find prices that are much lower than usual including daily specials.

3. If you have a family, go to places that offer children’s menus with low priced meals or choose a a place that offers Free Kids Meals!!

4. If you are not a big eater, share an entree with someone else and order salad or soup to supplement your meal.

5. Try and avoid alcoholic drinks and desserts since their markup is very high. $5 for a drink is simply not worth it!

6. Use Coupons! Your local city newspaper or phone book should have coupons for many of the popular restaurants in your area. Do you own a copy of the Entertainment Book? They have lots of dining out coupons!! Take a look and see what’s available to you.

7. If you dine out a lot, it may be more economical to buy a coupon book of restaurants in your area or a “frequent dining card”. You’ll find lots of 2-for-1 and 50% off coupons that can add up to big savings.

8. If you eat out and you have a huge appetite, go for the all-you-can-eat buffets. That might be all you need for the day!

9. If you own a business, dining out for business purposes is a legitimate expense you can write off:) Check with your local tax laws for the percentage allowed.

10. Last but not least, why not cook? Not only is it much healthier, but you’ll save hundreds if not thousands of dollars every year.

Almost everyone enjoys eating out from time to time. However this can get quite expensive especially if you eat out on a regular basis. But you can enjoy a meal out once in awhile if you just “Plan” for it,  and you might find yourself saving hundreds  of dollars each year… food for thought!