Dining Out for Less!
Dining out can be a huge budget killer! When we out it’s a huge treat in our house. Money for “extras” is pretty low on our budgeting priorities, so when we do eat out, we have to do it frugally. I am always on the hunt for discounts and coupons to be used at eating establishments. Plus, you can often find contests that can score you a free dinner or two. Papa John’s Pizza often gives out free codes or pizza like they did with the Super Bowl Sunday coin toss contest.
In the coupon inserts found in the Sunday paper you can usually find coupons for major restaurant chains like Red Lobster, Perkins, Subway or Olive Garden. You can also check your mailbox or inbox for coupon offers. Signing up for a restaurants email list or birthday club will often score you coupons for free entrees or discounts based on the amount you spend. When you use these free coupons to save money you can enjoy a night out without over spending.
Once you have coupons for a restaurant you can use other frugal tips to help you save even more. One of my favorite ways to use restaurant coupons is at breakfast or lunch time. The price of meals during these hours of the day cost much less than meals after 4 PM.
Chili’s often has a FREE appetizer or dessert coupon. Don’t make the mistake of ordering a full meal and an appetizer. When we had the Chili’s coupon we split an entree and an appetizer. The appetizer was free and the entree was less than $15, so it was a cheap date.
Always order water instead of a beverage from the menu. Some restaurants charge as much as $3 for a soda and drinks that contain alcohol can top off at $10 or more!
Do you use coupons or discounts when you dine out? I would love to hear your tips in the comments on this post!
Mom Blog says
I always order water, but my family……that is another story;(
Thanks for the tips,
Bobbie Anne