My husband and I don’t eat out a lot because it is expensive, and we can buy a lot of groceries for the cost of one meal at a restaurant. However, eating out is a lot of fun, especially because then we don’t have to cook and clean up. Whenever we eat out we try to order something really unique that we wouldn’t be likely to make at home. We also usually follow these simple suggestions below that help us to save money when we do eat out:
1. Drink water. Beverages are overpriced at restaurants. Instead of spending extra money on beverages, order some nice dishes instead.
2. If it works with your schedule, eat out at lunch instead of supper. At most restaurants, you can often order virtually the same dish at lunch and it will cost a lot less.
3. Skip the appetizers. Unless you are going out with a large group and everyone is splitting the bill, I wouldn’t recommend choosing appetizers. Your dollar will go the furthest if you order the main dishes.
4. Order main dishes that will be filling enough that you won’t have an appetite for dessert. Desserts are usually overpriced and, at least for me, they are often disappointing. Somehow they just don’t taste as good as I would have expected after looking at their pictures on the menu.
5. Use coupons. Restaurants often mail out coupons to their local areas, or you can find coupons in your local community coupon books. Some restaurants also offer promotions and coupons online on their websites.
6. If you are really hungry and want it all – appetizers, main dishes, soup, salads, and dessert – go for a buffet. For a flat fee you can eat as much as you want and it will cost a lot less than if you were to order everything individually. We especially enjoy going out for a seafood buffet – all you can eat crab legs and shrimp is absolutely fantastic!
My husband and I do not eat out a lot because we know it is cheaper to cook ourselves. However, it is nice to eat out once in a while as we get to try different foods and we don’t have to clean up the mess afterwards.