Entertainment

Ways to Save Money When Eating Out

When money is tight, dining out is one of the first things many people cut back on. For those that enjoy eating out at their favorite restaurants, such cutbacks can seem especially difficult. Fortunately, there are plenty of great ways to save money on dining out expenses. A recent story in the New York Times suggests that many top eating establishments are offering deals, perks and specials in response to the economic downturn.

“Battered hard already by the recession and petrified of what’s to come, restaurants are talking sweet and reaching out in ways they didn’t six or even three months ago. They’re cutting special deals, adding little perks, relaxing demands and making an extra effort to be accessible.”

While you may not live in a food Mecca like NYC, your local eateries are just as likely to features great deals. It might take a little extra planning and you’ll probably have to learn where to look for the best deals, but a little extra effort just might save you a substantial amount of money on your dining out bill each month.

Check Out Overlooked Gems

Skip the high priced restaurants in favor of smaller spots. Just browsing my own local eateries revealed a number of fantastic options, such as a small, family-owned Chinese restaurant offering lunch specials for just $3.95 a person. That’s half the price of a value meal at a fast food place.

Start Being an Early Bird

Dining out late in the evening means that you’ll have to pay full dinner menu price. Instead, try making it to a late lunch, between the hours of 4PM and 6PM. Restaurants will generally allow you to order off the lunch menu during these times, offering virtually the same options as the dinner menu at dramatically lower prices.

Drink Ice Water

Ordering drinks such as soda, lemonade, flavored drinks or alcohol is a sure-fire way to ramp up your eating out bill. Instead, just order ice water. Not only is it usually free, it’s also a lot healthier for your body.

Ask About Loyal Customer Rewards

Do you often eat out at the same restaurant? Then be sure to ask if the establishment offers a customer loyalty program. Such programs build points every time you eat there. Eventually, you can build enough points to pay for a free or discounted meal.

Use Coupons

You may be surprised to learn that many popular restaurants offer great coupons. Check out coupon mailers such as ValPack, or browse your local newspaper for great finds. Such coupons might shave dollars off your bill, offer free appetizers or even provide buy one/get one free deals.

When you are trying to save money, eating out might be one of the first things to go. If you budget wisely and keep an eye out for great deals, however, there is no reason why you can’t occasionally enjoy great meals out at your favorite restaurants.

Foam craft projects are a fun and affordable way for kids to express their creativity. Saving money on craft supplies is easy and painless if you sign up online or in your local craft store for special savings. Store e-mails will notify you of upcoming specials and often come with a 50% off coupon to print and use at the local branch of their store.

If you’re looking for a frugal craft idea, foam art can provide hours of inexpensive entertainment for your children. Your children will enjoy making all kinds of picture frames, bookmarks, flowers, decorative foam magnets, locker pockets, note and pencil holders, and much more.
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