6 Ways to Save Money at Restaurants

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We're all looking for creative ways to save money, but being frugal doesn't mean you have to sacrifice fun. By following just a few simple money-saving tips, you and your family will still be able to enjoy wonderful restaurant meals several times a month without digging too deeply into your wallet.

1. Work the Freebies!

• What's refreshing, healthy, and best of all, free? Water! We're constantly being told that we should drink more water, and there's no better time than the present to start. Order water with your meal (tap water of course, not bottled or mineral water) and your server will gladly bring you refill after fabulously free refill. Can't stand the blandness of plain old water? Ask for a wedge of lemon or lime to jazz it up.
• Many restaurants give their diners a basket of bread, crackers or chips and salsa before their meal. These are free, and if you ask, your server will refill that magical basket again and again. When you're full of free bread, the temptation to spend more money on huge portions will fade.

2. Skip the Spirits

• We've already covered the money-saving and does-a-body-good benefits of ordering water with your meal, but what happens when you just need to have a little something more than that? Soda and juice are always far less expensive than alcohol. When ordering soda, remember that fountain drinks are usually cheaper than lemonade or specialty bottled sodas; fountain drinks typically come with free refills, specialty sodas do not.
• If you must have an adult beverage or two, consider splitting one bottle of house wine among everyone at your table. This is usually more economic than each person ordering his or her own glass. You can also try to time your visit so that it falls within the restaurant's happy hour. Many establishments offer two-for-one deals on their mixed drinks and liqueurs, giving you a chance to outfit four people with beverages for the price of only two.

3. Break the Mold

• Who says a restaurant meal has to consist of an appetizer, entrée and dessert? Break the mold, and save some cash in the process. A simple house salad paired with a delectable appetizer can make a perfectly satisfying meal, as can a salad and bowl of soup. You'll be spending less, cutting back on calories, and even saving enough room for dessert. Another great tip is to order two or three sides instead of an entrée. Side dishes can cost as little as $1.50 each. How does a plate of Mexican rice and black beans sound? Steamed veggies and a baked potato? You'll have more than enough to eat while still covering a range of food groups and flavors.

4. Share and Share Alike

• If there's an entrée you're just dying to try, split it with a friend or that special someone. Restaurant portions are huge, and you'll both have plenty to eat. You might also try asking your server if the restaurant offers half portions of their entrées, sometimes called "lunch portions." They're priced significantly lower than full-sized portions, so two people can easily share them and get a little bit of variety for the same price as one full entrée.
• When it comes to sharing, desserts are perfect. Split a sundae or a piece of pie with a friend to save money, save calories, and satisfy your sweet tooth.

5. Just Say No to Dessert

• Speaking of dessert, restaurant options are often very expensive. Try taking a stroll after your meal, stopping at an ice cream stand or out-of-the-way café for coffee and pie. The prices are lower, and this is a great way to end a romantic dinner date. If you have a family, go back home and scoop your own ice cream or bake cookies together. It's a great activity for everyone to share in, and the result is a much less expensive – but equally delicious – dessert.

6. Clip Coupons

• Coupons aren't just for the grocery store. Keep an eye on your mail for ValPak coupon packs, which often include coupons and two-for-one deals at local restaurants. The Entertainment Books that are sold as fundraisers by high schools and Girl Scout troops can pay for themselves very quickly.
• In addition to coupons, watch for specials at your favorite places. Daily and weekly specials are often offered at reduced rates; new restaurants sometimes offer special prices to get customers in the door.

A few hours away from home, dining with friends or family, can be just what you need to recharge your batteries after a long day. Just because you're living within a budget doesn't mean that you have to give up these all-important evenings out. Be creative, be frugal, and be well fed!