10 Tips That Will Save You Money When Eating Out

You might question why anyone would even consider going out to eat if they’re trying to save money – the two just don’t go together. However, saving money shouldn’t be a punishment; it shouldn’t stop you from doing the things you enjoy every once in a while. Also, spending money can’t always be avoided – birthdays and other celebrations, for example. So, for those occasions or the “every now and again” when you feel like letting someone else do all the work, here are some great tips on how to get the best value from your dining experience.

1. Early Bird Offers – Many restaurants and pubs offer a special menu and reduced prices for early evening, say between 4 and 7pm.  These are sometimes called pre-theatre or cinema menus.
2. Don’t over order, it’s easy to do, especially at somewhere like an Indian restaurant where there are lots of side dishes to tempt you.  Why not try sharing a dish, remember you can always order another dish later.
3. There’s no shame in ordering tap water, even if the waiter has asked if you’d like an aperitif.  It’s very easy to spend more on the alcohol than on the food: drink tap water and half your bill.
4. Sign up for a loyalty card.  If you like the food then why not invest in the long term, it may take a while but good things come to those who wait – very often in the form of free food and heavily discounted menus. Alternatively, a membership card like Tastecard offers 2 for 11 or 50% off in restaurants every time you visit.
5. Eating out in the evening is much more expensive than eating out at lunchtime, even at a weekend in a lot of places. It might not be practical to leave work for a couple of hours just to get a cheaper meal, but it’s something worth remembering for bank holidays, annual leave and even weekends.
6. Do your research. Don’t make the mistake of equating spending a lot of money with having a good time.  Thanks to the internet there’s now no need to take a chance on a restaurant.
7. Serve yourself. Service charges can be as high as twenty per cent so why not cut out the middle man, or woman, and go get the food yourself.  Buffet food may not be as good as the food brought to you at a restaurant table but it’s very good value and you won’t go hungry.  Remember, the food is only part of the dining experience, the atmosphere and the company are equally important.
8. Take the food away with you.  Many restaurants offer a take away menu which is significantly cheaper than the food they serve at the table.  The quality is the same but the portions are likely to be bigger so you can have a restaurant experience in your own home and have enough food leftover for the next day too.  Click here for your closest takeaway or  here if you’re in the UK.
9. Use vouchers and special offers.  It may require patience and a little forward planning but vouchers can literally half your bill if used judiciously.
10.  Don’t be too proud to ask for a doggy bag.  If you have over ordered don’t let the food go in the bin, take it home and have yourself a delicious lunch the next day.

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