Eating out might be a regular aspect of your routine if you’re a hardcore foodie. Did you know the average American dines out at least three times a week? We get it – checking out the latest trendy restaurants, fine dining hideouts, food trucks, and the local restaurant scene is exciting, but it can take a big chunk out of your wallet!
But don’t worry; even if you are a frugal foodie, it’s still very much possible to indulge your taste buds. Here are some handy ways to eat out on a budget without compromising your gastronomical adventures.
Get Your Timing Right
Timing matters a lot when it comes to dining out on a budget. You can’t expect to walk into a restaurant on a busy Saturday night and get special treatment. Plan your outings strategically by dining at off-peak hours. Many eateries offer early-bird discounts or lunch specials during off-peak hours. So, in addition to enjoying meals on a budget, you also get to experience a more peaceful ambiance minus the crowds.
Another option is to plan your dinners around festive occasions like Christmas or Valentine’s Day when most restaurants offer special promotions.
Dine With Other Frugal Food Pals
Sharing is an excellent idea if you want to eat out – and if you have frugal foodie friends, it’s all the better. By sharing meals, you can sample more items off the menu while still staying within budget. Plus, eating out with like-minded frugal foodies can serve as a stress buster when you want to enjoy some good food but not worry about keeping up with your more indulgent friends.
Check For Discounts Or Coupons Online
With a little bit of online sleuthing, you can grab some exceptional bargains. Browse websites or apps that partner with local restaurants to find deals or offers. They may even offer bonus savings for email subscribers. For instance, if you subscribe to their mailing list, you might find a coupon or voucher for a local restaurant in your inbox.
It’s also important to be selective about deal hunting. If you’re constantly checking for deals and offers, you might end up spending unnecessary money!
Purchase Gift Cards Below Face Value
Certain websites—like restaurant.com, for example—offer gift cards for a fraction of their actual worth. For example, you can score a $20 certificate to your favorite takeout place for just $10. While minimum purchase values may apply, gift cards are still worth checking out.
Ask If Any Discounts Are Going On
Did you know that seniors, children, and active or retired military are some common candidates for discounts? You never know when you may be eligible for a deal at an establishment. However, it’s wiser to first research the restaurant’s discounts online before making the trip, but it won’t cost to ask politely if any deals are going on.
Be Strategic About Your Menu Choices
If you want to offset dining costs, you can choose more affordable items off the menu. For example, dishes that use local, in-season produce may be cheaper. You can also choose smaller portion sizes.
Sign Up For Restaurant Loyalty Programs
Any business loves its loyal customers, and the same applies to restaurants. Signing up for loyalty programs unlocks exclusive offers, discounts, and freebies. So the next time you want to dine out, you can avail of these offers and indulge for less than what you would have to pay otherwise!
Browse Your Credit Card Offers
If you thought credit card rewards were only for retail therapy, you are wrong. Many banks offer exclusive dining privileges at partner restaurants. Some offers are as good as 30% off at selected restaurants, so make sure that you check your credit card offers before you make a dinner reservation.
Dine Out On National Days
There are special National Days aplenty, and restaurants often go the extra mile to celebrate them. From International Ice Cream Day to National Chicken Wing Day, there is a special day for almost any food you can think of. So plan your meals around these days to avail yourself of special discounts, free desserts, appetizers, and much more. To stay in the loop, you can check out the social media pages of your favorite restaurants so you don’t miss any promotional offers.
Be Open to Trying New Things
The restaurant scene is constantly abuzz, and new dining spots are always opening down the street. Don’t hesitate to broaden your dining horizons if you’re craving great food. Remember, fancy restaurants are not always the best, and the best restaurants don’t have to be the most expensive ones. You can enjoy fantastic food at lower prices by being open to trying new things!
So cast your net a bit wider and explore more options for satiating your tastebuds without burning a hole in your pocket. But ensure you read through customer reviews thoroughly before you decide to eat at a new place. The last thing you want is to be served bland and tasteless food and waste money you were trying so hard to be frugal with!
