20 Ways to Save Money at a Restaurant

Dining out is a delightful experience, but that delight can come with a hefty price tag, especially with the rising cost of inflation! Here are 20 clever hacks and savvy strategies to transform you into a restaurant regular who gets the most bang for their buck without sacrificing an enjoyable dining experience.

1. Befriend the Lunch Menu

Take advantage of lunch menu discounts. Restaurants often offer scaled-down versions of their dinner entrees at significantly lower prices. Plus, some spots throw in freebies like soup or salad during peak lunch hours, and some even offer lunch until the late afternoon, which you can call an early dinner.

2. Happy Hour Hero

Channel your inner social butterfly and hit the bar scene during happy hour. Many restaurants offer discounted drinks and appetizers during these golden hours. You can score delicious bites and quench your thirst without breaking the bank. Plus, bar seating often has shorter wait times!

3. The Power of Sharing

Consider splitting a dish with a friend, especially if the portions are known to be generous. This strategy lets you both try something new and cuts the cost in half. Bonus points if you can snag a side to share as well.

4. Master the Leftovers

Become a takeout ninja! Request a to-go box before you're halfway done with the meal. This way, you can savor half your dish at the restaurant and enjoy the other half for another meal at home.

5. Weekday Warriors

Steer clear of peak dining hours like weekends and holidays. Restaurants often have special deals on weekdays to entice customers during slower periods. Think "Taco Tuesdays" and "Wing Wednesdays" – your wallet will thank you.

6. BYOB Bliss

If the restaurant allows it, consider bringing your own bottle of wine or beer. The corkage fee is usually much lower than the price of a restaurant drink, allowing you to indulge without overspending.

7. Loyalty Love

Loyalty programs are your friend! Sign up for restaurant loyalty programs and apps to score exclusive deals, discounts, and even free menu items on your birthday. Every penny saved counts!

8. Couponing Is Cool Again

Don't underestimate the power of coupons. Check restaurant websites, social media pages, and even local newspapers for coupons and promo codes. A little sleuthing can lead to big savings.

9. The Early Bird Gets the Deal

Some restaurants offer special "early bird" menus for those who dine in before a certain time. This is a fantastic option for an affordable and delicious pre-theater dinner or a relaxed family outing.

10. Skip the Soda

Tap water is usually free, and often just as refreshing as pricey drinks.

11. Hydration Hero at Home

Quench your thirst before you head out. This will help you avoid the temptation of ordering multiple drinks at the restaurant, which can significantly inflate your bill.

12. Beware the Upsell

While servers are there to enhance your experience, be mindful of upselling tactics. Only order what you truly want and need. Remember, you can always ask for more water or bread later on.

13. Read the Fine Print

Before you get carried away by the allure of a "prix fixe" menu, carefully analyze what's included. Sometimes, it might be more cost-effective to order a la carte, especially if you're not a fan of everything on the set menu.

14. Avoid Dessert

Ditch the expensive dessert menu and explore other options. Consider sharing a dessert, or opt for a coffee or tea instead. You might even be pleasantly surprised by a complimentary after-dinner mint or cookie!

15. Skip the Fancy Extras

While loaded fries or a side of onion rings sound tempting, resist the urge to add on every fancy extra. Focus on enjoying the main course and savor the flavors.

16. Kids Eat Free

Many restaurant chains offer free kids' meals on certain days of the week, usually with the purchase of an adult entrée.

17. Embrace Ethnic Cuisine

Ethnic restaurants often offer delicious and more affordable meals than fancy, mainstream, sit-down establishments. Explore new flavors and broaden your culinary horizons without breaking the bank.

18. Have a Picnic

If you want to get out of the house and have someone else cook, order takeout and head for the park or lake. Takeout boxes often hold more than you normally get at the restaurant, so order one meal to split.

19. Become a Cash Ninja

Consider paying with cash. This can help you stick to your budget and avoid the post-dinner guilt that can come with swiping your card.

20. Order the Daily Special

Often the daily special at a restaurant is cheaper than the other entrées. But keep in mind, there are two kinds of daily specials. If the special was announced that day it may be a way to use up older food. Therefore, the regular specials that rotate by day are a better bet for a fresh meal at a lower price.

Remember, dining out should be an enjoyable experience. By incorporating these savvy strategies, you can transform yourself into a restaurant regular who stretches their budget without sacrificing a nice evening out.

References: 21 Ways to Save Money at a Restaurant| 26 Tips to Spend Less When You Eat Out at Restaurants