How to Save Money When Eating Out at Restaurants

Dining out offers a convenient break from home cooking and an opportunity for social engagement. For many, this activity represents a significant portion of their discretionary spending. While the appeal of restaurant dining is clear, managing associated expenses requires a thoughtful approach. Implementing informed strategies can help individuals enjoy these experiences without overextending financial resources, ensuring dining out remains a pleasure rather than a financial burden.

Strategic Choices Before You Go

Effective financial management for restaurant dining begins before arriving at the establishment. Researching menus and prices online can significantly influence where to dine. Checking restaurant websites or popular review platforms allows for a direct comparison of offerings and costs, enabling selections that align with budgetary considerations.

Considering the timing of a meal can yield notable savings. Lunch menus often feature smaller portions or different preparations of dinner items at reduced prices. Opting for happy hour specials, typically offered during late afternoon, can provide discounted appetizers and beverages that might suffice for a lighter meal. These off-peak times offer an opportunity to experience a restaurant’s offerings at a lower cost than during prime dinner hours.

The type of restaurant chosen directly impacts the overall expense. Fast-casual restaurants generally have a lower price structure compared to full-service dining establishments. Exploring restaurants with a “Bring Your Own Bottle” (BYOB) policy, where permitted by local regulations, can substantially cut beverage costs, though a corkage fee of $10 to $40 per bottle is common. This fee helps cover glassware and service.

Planning group meals with shared dishes can contribute to reducing individual expenditures. Instead of each person ordering a full entree, sharing appetizers or a larger main course can distribute the cost more broadly. Understanding the financial implications of takeout versus dine-in options is beneficial. Third-party delivery services frequently add various fees, including service and delivery fees, which can increase the total cost by 15% to 30% or higher, compared to picking up an order directly from the restaurant.

Smart Decisions While Ordering

Once seated at a restaurant, choices made during the ordering process directly influence the final bill. Choosing water instead of soft drinks, juices, or alcoholic beverages can significantly reduce costs. Alcoholic drinks, such as cocktails, wine, or beer, often have high markups, with a single cocktail potentially costing $10 to $15 and a glass of wine ranging from $8 to $12. These items can notably inflate the total expense.

Re-evaluating traditional meal structures can save money. Ordering a larger appetizer or two can serve as a complete meal, often at a lower price than a standard entree. Appetizers are typically less expensive than a full main course and can satisfy hunger.

Portion management and planning for leftovers can maximize value. Many restaurant portions are generously sized, allowing half an entree to be saved for a subsequent meal. Requesting a to-go box early can help control consumption and provide a second meal for no additional cost, effectively halving the per-meal expense.

Being mindful of add-ons and side dishes is important. Automatically accepting extra sauces, premium sides, or other minor additions can incrementally increase the bill. These small charges accumulate quickly, so declining unnecessary extras helps maintain budgetary control. Splitting an entree with a dining companion can be a cost-effective solution when portions are large, though some restaurants may apply a small split-plate fee.

Utilizing Available Savings

Leveraging specific programs and deals can enhance savings when dining out. Happy hour promotions, commonly available in the late afternoon, often feature reduced prices on drinks and select appetizers, which can be sufficient for a light meal. These offers provide an accessible way to enjoy restaurant amenities at a fraction of the usual cost.

Signing up for restaurant loyalty programs and using restaurant-specific applications can unlock various benefits. These programs reward repeat patronage with points redeemable for discounts, free menu items, or exclusive offers. Many establishments provide incentives like birthday rewards or early access to promotions for loyalty members.

Actively seeking out coupons and vouchers is an effective strategy. These can be found through online coupon websites, local mailers, newspaper inserts, or by subscribing to a restaurant’s email list. Review the terms and conditions carefully, as some coupons may have restrictions or expiration dates. Utilizing these discounts can provide direct reductions on the overall bill.

Purchasing discounted restaurant gift cards from third-party resellers offers an immediate percentage off the total bill. Websites specializing in gift card resale often sell cards at a discount ranging from 5% to over 20% below face value. This method provides a straightforward way to reduce the cost of a meal.

Inquiring about special demographic discounts can lead to additional savings. Many restaurants offer price reductions for students, seniors, or military personnel. These discounts, often 10% or more, typically require presentation of a valid identification card. Certain credit cards or dining rewards programs also provide cash back or points on restaurant spending, offering a retroactive financial benefit.